ISSUES
Puncture
Resistant Vests For Women
Answers provided by the U.S. Department of
Justice, National Institute of Justice
Do any manufacturers make puncture resistant
vests for women?
There are currently nine female models of
stab-resistant armor that have been tested
through the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ)
Voluntary Compliance Testing Program for
Stab-Resistant Armor (NIJ Standard-0115.00) and
found to comply with the requirements of that
standard. These models are made by six
different manufacturers. A comprehensive list of
compliant vests, both ballistic and stab
resistant is available through the National Law
Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center
at:
http://www.justnet.org/BatPro.
The table below lists links to the manufacturers
who produce female stab resistant vests. The
vests listed below have been tested and have met
the National Standard.
NLECTC Body Armor Database
Do you have any information or advice for female
correctional officers regarding stab resistant
vests?
Comfort and fit are major factors in selecting
armor that is intended for full-time use. Armor
that is not comfortable, or does not fit
properly, is unlikely to be worn. Armor that is
not worn provides no protection to the wearer.
However, our understanding is that currently,
most armor used in correctional environments is
of a tactical nature, which is much heavier and
not suited for full-time use. It is used only in
high-risk situations or as needed. It must also
be noted that comfort and fit are largely
subjective measures, and are very specific to
the individual wearer's preferences. What is
"comfortable" or an acceptable "fit" for one
person may not be the same for another
individual.
When selecting armor intended for full time use,
NIJ suggests that the purchasing officer/agency
first understand the protection levels defined
by the NIJ Standard, and determine which
protection level is appropriate based on an
assessment of the type of threats that the
officer is likely to face. Once an appropriate
protection level is determined, search the
database of NIJ-complying armor models at
http://www.justnet.org/BatPro/ and identify
several different NIJ-compliant models for
further review. Review or examine samples of
these armors to determine which ones offer the
best combination of protection, comfort, fit,
desired features/accessories (e.g., additional
outershell carriers), and price. NIJ recommends
speaking with other agencies who have purchased
similar models to determine if there were any
issues regarding armor performance or customer
support.
Once a specific model is selected, work with the
manufacturer or their local distributor to have
each officer individually measured. Obtain the
terms and conditions of purchase in writing in
advance, to include how post-purchase concerns
regarding fit or future alterations will be
addressed, and at whose expense.
When the armor is purchased and received by the
agency, inspect the armor to ensure that there
are no visible defects in materials or
workmanship, and that all fastener or closure
devices are securely attached and work properly.
Also ensure that the armor model designation on
the protective panel label matches the NIJ-compliant
model designation listed on NIJ's database. If
possible, have a manufacturer or distributor
representative present for a "test fit" to
ensure the armor is sized correctly, provides an
adequate area of coverage, and to address any
other concerns the wearer may have.
Have you heard any complaints or problems from
female correctional officers about vests?
We have heard anecdotally about the concerns and
general issues with fitting female law
enforcement and corrections officers. NIJ has
funded a study to develop tools for optimal
design, fit and comfort. Specifically, the
National Institute of Justice is undertaking a
project to develop a computer-based tool to aid
in designing body armor. This tool would
determine optimal vest construction in order to
achieve the lowest possible weight and the
highest comfort for a required level of officer
protection. The underlying research on body
armor advanced designs will lead to the
potential development of tools and technologies
that will improve overall officer safety.
What can be done to ensure greater access to
protective vests for female correctional
officers?
State and local corrections agencies are
eligible to participate in the Bulletproof Vest
Partnership Grant Act (BVPGA)Program,
administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance
(BJA). This program assists agencies in
purchasing bullet- and stab-resistant armor by
paying up to 50% of the armor's cost. For more
information on the BVP program, see
www.vests.ojp.gov.
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