Questions over how fog cannons and body cameras in Woolworths stores will mitigate the rising abuse of staff.

The supermarket giant is reporting a 131% rise in physical assaults on staff in the past six months, compared to the same time last year.

It's also launching an in-store campaign to encourage customers to respect workers as they head into the busiest time of year.

First Union General Secretary Dennis Maga told Kate Hawkesby that those security measures could work short-term.

He says intervention is needed in the long run, particularly as the rate of unruly behaviour increases.

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Questions over how fog cannons and body cameras in Woolworths stores will mitigate the rising abuse of staff. 
The supermarket giant is reporting a 131% rise in physical assaults on staff in the past six months, compared to the same time last year. 
It's also launching an in-store campaign to encourage customers to respect workers as they head into the busiest time of year. 
First Union General Secretary Dennis Maga told Kate Hawkesby that those security measures could work short-term. 
He says intervention is needed in the long run, particularly as the rate of unruly behaviour increases. 
LISTEN ABOVE

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A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.