Policing Standards Manual

Study Notes

Policing Standards Manual - Equipment-Body Armour

Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) outlines employer, supervisor, and worker responsibilities for workplace safety.
Section 7 of O. Reg. 268/10 mandates municipalities to provide all necessary uniform and equipment. Members are responsible for replacing damaged or lost items.
Section 135 of the Police Services Act allows regulations for equipment use and force.
"Regulation 926" details equipment and force use, including approved weapons, training, reporting, and handgun specifications.
Police Services Board policy mandates body armor meeting specific criteria.
Body armor must be constructed to provide the necessary level of protection, considering weapon types and member-issued handguns. Protection must meet prescribed specifications.
Body armor must be purchased from manufacturers practicing effective quality control in testing and labeling that aligns with current NIJ Standards (National Institute of Justice) and ISO 9001:2008 standards for production.
Body armor must be listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List, including any required replacement panels and carriers.
Members must use, maintain, and care for the equipment according to manufacturer instructions.
A formal inspection program for wear and tear is required.
Members must receive training on legislative requirements, use, and benefits/limitations of the body armor.
Existing body armor models compliant with previous NIJ standards are deemed acceptable, but agencies should update to meet the most current standards.
Body armor must be constructed of ballistic fabric/material.
Body armor must offer the protection level mandated by current National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards.
Body armor should offer optimum fit, comfort, and mobility, including front, back, and side protection under the arms and above the waist.
Provided body armor should have an issued carrier (under-shirt or over-shirt), as determined by the police service policy which may include a hook and pile closure retaining pockets, and easy insertion/removal of plates, panels and/or trauma shields.
Body armor panels must be contained in a water-resistant, hermetically sealed cover to prevent infiltration by body oils, perspiration, and fluids.
Chief of Police should consult with employee representatives during body armor acquisition processes.
Police services need to provide training on proper use, care, limitations, and protection offered by the body armor, including injury prevention from accidents, edged weapons, physical assaults, and potential injuries from traffic accidents.