DILG orders mandatory use of body-worn cameras in fire inspections

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced Tuesday that it has directed the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to implement the mandatory use of body-worn cameras (BWCs) during fire safety inspections nationwide.

Under the policy, fire safety inspections must be recorded from start to finish. Recording begins upon the issuance of the body-worn camera at the fire station and continues during travel to the site, the actual inspection, discussion of findings, and until the camera is formally turned over to the station custodian.

Upon arrival at an establishment, the Fire Safety Enforcer is required to state on video his or her name and rank, location, date and time, nature of the inspection, and the name of the establishment. The owner or authorized representative is informed that the inspection is being recorded and may also take their own video.

Establishment owners may request, in writing, a copy of the inspection video within seven working days from the date of inspection through the City or Municipal Fire Marshal with jurisdiction.

The policy reiterates that Fire Safety Enforcers are strictly prohibited from recommending, selling, or endorsing any particular brand of fire safety equipment, in accordance with the Fire Code of the Philippines and the Ease of Doing Business law.

During inspections, the body-worn camera documents fire exits, fire safety equipment, and other required safety measures, including explanations of findings. For non-compliant establishments, inspectors are required to clearly explain deficiencies, required corrective actions, and possible penalties, all of which must be recorded.

Fire Safety Enforcers are personally accountable for the proper use of body-worn cameras. Any unjustified failure to record, interruption of recording, or tampering with recorded footage constitutes misconduct.

After the inspection, recorded videos must be turned over to the station custodian and uploaded to a secured system within 24 hours. Inspectors are prohibited from accessing, editing, deleting, or manipulating the recordings once turned over.

The DILG said the policy aims to ensure consistency, accountability, and proper documentation in the conduct of fire safety inspections. The BFP affirmed its full implementation of the directive in accordance with existing laws and regulations.