NCJ Number
189633
Date Published
November 2001
Length
114 pages
Annotation
This report provides an updated version of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards for the selection and application of personal body armor for police and corrections officers.
Abstract
NIJ's Office of Law Enforcement Standards has developed a set of standards for the performance of body armor, both for ballistic resistance and for stab and puncture resistance. Body armor is tested for NIJ standards compliance through a voluntary equipment program; a consumer product listing of armor models that comply with the NIJ standards are offered through the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC). This guide presents a history of the development of body armor and offers recommendations for selecting and purchasing body armor, as well as instruction on how to keep the armor in proper working order. The guide offers tips for assessing the level of protection needed by officers and presents information on body armor construction, including discussions of how body armor works, materials used, and methods of construction. NIJ standards for body armor are described along with an explanation of how the NIJ standards for personal body armor were developed. The procurement process is specifically addressed in chapter 9 and focuses on model procurement specifications as well as protection and testing considerations. The life expectancy of body armor is discussed, followed by a section on administration considerations, such as training and education related to wearing and caring for body armor, as well as liability issues. Exhibits, endnotes, bibliography, appendixes