Managers and supervisors, members of CUPE Local 5585, in Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway stations are now wearing body-worn cameras, a move that will improve safety and encourage more respectful interactions between customers and staff.

The phased introduction of the cameras for station staff follows the successful rollout of the devices with TTC Special Constables and Provincial Offenses Officers in January 2025. TTC staff who already wear cameras report a noticeable improvement in their overall perception of safety.

Ramping up for the FIFA World Cup

From now until the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the TTC is rolling out body-worn cameras to almost 150 station staff.

As part of the station staff body-worn camera program, the TTC said it will collect data, assess the devices' effectiveness, and fine-tune the program to ensure the agency provides staff with the maximum benefit from this technology.

“The evidence from peer organizations from around the world is compelling; body-worn cameras are an effective and efficient way to protect our employees,” said TTC CEO Mandeep S. Lali. “We must utilize proven worldwide technology to enhance safety for station staff further, as we’ve seen an increase in offenses against this group in recent months, and that cannot be allowed to continue.”

In keeping with existing TTC policies, the cameras will be highly visible and activated only in situations beyond standard customer interactions, such as safety or security incidents, during wellness checks, or when a customer requests that an interaction be recorded, said officials.

Body-worn Camera recordings will be retained in accordance with the TTC Records and Retention Schedule.