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GLOSSARY: BJA-the Bureau of Justice Assistance. BVP-the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Act, designed to provide local and state law enforcement with body armor. NLECTC-The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center-National (NLECTC-National), located in Rockville, Maryland, administers the National Institute of Justice's (NIJ's) voluntary compliance testing programs for personal body armor. In addition to processing samples received for testing, NLECTC-National staff routinely responds to inquiries received from law enforcement, corrections, other criminal justice agencies, and product manufacturers about the testing program. Their website is www.nlectc.org. Jurisdiction-The program is administered through units of general government recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau. Jurisdictions include towns, cities, villages, boroughs, parishes, counties, states, and Indian tribes. The Chief Executive Officer is the highest ranking elected or appointed official of the jurisdiction (e.g. city mayor, city, town or village manager, state governor, county executive, chairman of the governing board, chairman of the county commissioners, Tribal chief or Tribal Governor). In some localities, the highest ranking law enforcement officer may also be considered the jurisdiction's CEO (e.g. the State of Louisiana). Law Enforcement Officer-any officer, agent, or employee of a State, unit of local government, or an Indian tribe authorized by law or by a government agency to engage in or supervise the prevention, detection, or investigation of any violation of criminal law, or authorized by law to supervise sentenced criminal offenders. This includes full, part-time and auxiliary personnel, whether paid or volunteer. NIJ Standard-0101.03-Ballistic Resistance of Personal Body Armor. The NIJ Standard that has been in effect for the last thirteen years. Armor that complies with this standard should not be considered inadequate or obsolete. It has only been tested to a different version of the standard. Models that comply with this standard can be resubmitted for testing under the NIJ Standard-0101.04. The advent and exclusive use of NIJ Standard-0101.04 in the Voluntary Compliance Testing Program does not imply that existing NIJ Standard-0101.03 compliant armor is in any way unsuitable for continued purchase and everyday use. In fact, such armor will still provide the same proven high degree of protection and performance that NIJ Standard-0101.03 demanded and produced. NIJ Standard-0101.03 compliant armor should not be considered inadequate or obsolete; it is simply armor that has not been tested and found compliant to NIJ Standard-0101.04's different requirements. If you determine that this model meets all of your protection and user defined requirements, then there is no reason not to purchase it. NIJ Standard-0101.04-Ballistic Resistance of Personal Body Armor. This revision, the first of this standard in 13 years, was the result of a three-year effort that included input from the law enforcement, body armor manufacturing, and fiber manufacturing communities. The Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) coordinated the development of this new revision, performing most of the research, with support from various components of the NLECTC Centers System. Because the NIJ Standard-0101.04 is a relatively new standard, not all of Second Chance's current models have been retested under this standard. As soon as testing time comes available, more models will be retested under this standard. Ninth generation ULTIMAå armor has been certified under the NIJ Standard-0101.04 in all three protection levels. NIJ Standard-0115.00-Stab Resistance of Personal Body Armor. This standard is the result of a three-year collaborative effort between the Office of Law Enforcement Standards, the U.S. Secret Service and the Police Scientific Development Branch of the United Kingdom, and establishes the first national minimum performance requirements for stab and puncture resistant armor. NIJ Standard-0115.00 classifies armor into two protection classes, spike (puncture-resistant) and edged blade. For each protection class, there are three protection levels against which the armor can be tested. A voluntary compliance testing program has been established by NLECTC in accordance with this new standard, and models found to comply are listed in the Body Armor Database at www.nlectc.org.
General If you meet the definition as provided for in the Act and its interpretation. However, you must work through your employing agency; you will not be able to register as an individual.
What Does the Term "Law Enforcement Officer" Mean?
According to the Act, the term "Law Enforcement Officer" means any officer, agent, or employee of a State, unit of local government, or an Indian tribe authorized by law or by a government agency to engage in or supervise the prevention, detection, or investigation of any violation of criminal law, or authorized by law to supervise sentenced criminal offenders. This includes full, part-time and auxiliary personnel, whether paid or volunteer.Below is a list of general job categories determined to be eligible for this program. Personnel not on this list may be eligible and should contact the Vest Help Desk for more information.
Police Officers The following categories are generally considered outside the scope of the Act and are ineligible.
Federal Employees * If officers, agents or employees engaged in private police or correctional work are being paid by an eligible jurisdiction and rely on that jurisdiction to provide for their personal equipment needs, they may be eligible for funds. However, the police/correctional officers or their corporate employers may not apply directly. If you have officers in your jurisdiction not listed, please contact the Vest Help Desk for a determination regarding their eligibility (1-877-75VESTS). Our department has hired ten new police officers and they are currently in the training academy. Can we include their vest needs in our application? This program does not make a distinction between new hires and trained or certified law enforcement officers, as long as the officers in question meet the Act's definition (as stated above) when the BVP funded vests are purchased. The only relevant restriction applies to positions that are authorized or funded but unfilled; jurisdictions are not permitted to include anticipated vest needs for authorized but unfilled positions in their application.
As a Law Enforcement Agency?
If your agency employs eligible law enforcement personnel. The agency director/designee acts as the program liaison with agency personnel and the jurisdiction's chief executive. Only the chief executive (or designee) can formally submit a completed application.
As a Jurisdiction?
If you are a recognized unit of general government as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau and you employ law enforcement officers as defined by this Act. The jurisdiction's chief executive is required to complete the online registration and to provide general oversight and approval of key transactions between the Bulletproof Vest Program and the participating law enforcement agencies.
Is there somewhere I can register now?
Jurisdictions and agencies can only register when the BVP site is open and accepting new applications. Keep checking the web site for program opening announcements.
Can individual state law enforcement agencies register online if the state chief executive has not yet registered on behalf of the state jurisdiction? Our agency is small and we want to move forward with the program.
Your agency will still be part of the larger state application, but you will be able to register and complete your portion of the application without delay. However, the state's complete application cannot be processed until the chief executive registers, and the other law enforcement agencies register and complete their portions of the application.
We are a state agency with eligible law enforcement personnel. Do we have to connect our application with that of other state agencies applying (like State Police), or can we apply on our own?
Each participating state agency registers and completes their portion of the state's application through their own Law Enforcement Agency Handbook. All agency applications automatically "roll-up" into one master state application, which is approved and electronically transmitted by the state's contact person to the Bulletproof Vest Program.
Does the Law Enforcement Agency need to fill out an application? Is this done entirely over the Internet?
Participating Law Enforcement Agencies register and apply online. The agency contact establishes a unique password and user identification to protect the agency's transactions throughout this process. Agency applications become part of the total jurisdiction application, which is reviewed, approved and transmitted by the chief executive to the Bulletproof Vest Program for review and approval.
How do we as a jurisdiction apply?
In simple terms, the jurisdiction's chief executive or designee registers, applies for funding based upon the total vest needs of the participating law enforcement agencies, and requests up to 50% of the needed funds to pay for the vests. Step by step, detailed instructions are provided in the Jurisdiction Handbook, activated by following the steps for " How Do I Participate as a Jurisdiction" accessible from the BVP homepage.
As a Vest Manufacturer/Distributor
How can a manufacturer or distributor register?
A vest manufacturer or distributor can register online and be listed in the web site's "yellow pages." Manufacturers and distributors will have their own instructions (electronic handbook) on the web site. Basic manufacturer information is already pre-loaded, based upon the NIJ database of eligible vests. Distributors may freely participate and supply vests to eligible jurisdictions regardless of whether they are listed in the database or yellow pages.
What is the Funding Application Process?
What is the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act of 1998?
On June 16, 1998, President Clinton signed into law the (Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-181). The purpose of the Act is to save lives of law enforcement officers by helping states, units of local government, and tribal governments equip their law enforcement officers with armor vests.
In our city, we have a city administrator. Is the administrator the one who completes the application or is it my job as chief of police?
The city administrator has the authority to determine the best means for completing the registration and application process. This may include delegating the responsibility to you or someone on the administrator's staff. Two application options are available for jurisdictions.
How will online purchasing through this program work in conjunction with our city's policy of going to the lowest bidder?
The online vest application contains information about each agency's vest needs; but agencies do not order vests through this program. The actual purchase is handled through the agency's normal procurement process independent of the vest web site. Purchasing from the lowest bidder and other requirements which may comprise agency procurement policy must be followed, documented, and maintained on file for future audit purposes.
What is "Total Cost?"
The program is designed to pay up to 50% of the total cost of each vest in the application. Total cost includes the cost of the vest, vest carriers, attachments, inserts, and covers considered integral or essential for its proper care, use, and wearability, shipping, handling, fitting charges, and applicable taxes. Essentially, the total invoiced price, after all vendor and prompt payment discounts have been deducted, is what BJA uses to determine total cost. Information about the invoiced purchase price and related costs will be reported to BJA when payment is requested.
Will we have to certify that the vests purchased meet the program's guidelines?
When a jurisdiction indicates that vests have been purchased, they are also certifying that the vests are in compliance with applicable standards and that the invoiced prices for vests do not include unrelated law enforcement equipment. All transactions related to vest procurements are subject to federal and jurisdiction-based audits. Purchase orders, receiving reports, and invoices need to be consistent with the provisions of the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act and maintained on file for audit purposes.
What type of documentation or proof will you require in terms of the number of vests we want to purchase for our officers?
Generally, each jurisdiction/agency is permitted to apply for funds to purchase one vest per each eligible officer per federal fiscal year. It is up to the agency to determine for whom and under what circumstances vests are purchased and issued. The only limitation per year is that the total agency purchase cannot exceed the total personnel strength of the agency, as measured by the number of filled officer positions, not just authorized or budgeted positions.
We have a routine replacement schedule and budget for vest purchases. Are we still eligible for funding, or does this create a "supplanting " issue?
Jurisdictions and agencies can fully participate in this program, without regard to supplanting. Supplanting issues do not apply to this program.
We are a state agency with eligible law enforcement personnel. Do we have to connect our application with that of other state agencies applying (like State Police), or can we apply on our own?
Each participating state agency registers and completes their portion of the state's application through their own Law Enforcement Agency Handbook. All agency applications automatically "roll-up" into one master state application, which is approved and electronically transmitted by the state's contact person to the Bulletproof Vest Program.
Does the law enforcement agency need to fill out an application? Is this done entirely over the Internet?
Participating law enforcement agencies register and apply online. The agency contact establishes a unique password and user identification to protect the agency's transactions throughout this process. Agency applications become part of the total jurisdiction application, which is reviewed, approved and transmitted by the chief executive to the Bulletproof Vest Program for review and approval. The entire registration-application-request payment process is handled over the Internet.
I am a county executive, within my county are several smaller towns and villages. Do I coordinate the vest needs and the application process for all jurisdictions within my county's boundaries?
This program regards each jurisdiction as unique and discreet. Your county application will only include county-level agencies; the state-level application will only include state agencies; a town application will only include town-level agencies. Multiple jurisdictions are not permitted to combine their vest needs into one application.
How do we as a jurisdiction apply?
In simple terms, the jurisdiction's chief executive or designee registers, applies for funding based upon the total vest needs of the participating law enforcement agencies, and requests up to 50% of the needed funds to pay for the vests. Step by step, detailed instructions are provided in the Jurisdiction Information Page.
What do you mean by "jurisdiction"? Who is my jurisdiction CEO?
The program is administered through units of general government recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau. Jurisdictions include towns, cities, villages, boroughs, parishes, counties, states, and Indian tribes. The Chief Executive Officer is the highest ranking elected or appointed official of the jurisdiction (e.g. city mayor, city, town or village manager, state governor, county executive, chairman of the governing board, chairman of the county commissioners, Tribal chief or Tribal Governor). In some localities, the highest ranking law enforcement officer may also be considered the jurisdiction's CEO (e.g. the State of Louisiana).
How do we go about applying for additional funds to cover the less than 50% federal share we received from last year's application?
Here's an example of the process to determine how to handle this situation. Let's assume a jurisdiction applied for 20 vests at $500 each and received 30% rather than 50% federal share:
1. Application contained 20 vests, at $500 each for a total of $10,000
Will our jurisdiction be subject to audits or inspections if we purchase vests using BVP funds?
BVP payments and transactions are subject to audits by the General Accounting Office, Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General, and applicable state/local auditors. Jurisdictions must follow their local procurement policies and procedures including maintenance of reliable and accurate accounting systems, record keeping, and systems of internal control. Recipients of federal funds are expected to retain documentation supporting all BVP transactions for at least three years after the closure of audit reports related to such funding. If any litigation, claim, negotiation, audit, or other action involving records has been started before the expiration of the three year period, the records must be retained until completion of the action and resolution of all related issues, or until the end of the regular three year period, whichever is later.
What responsibilities will the CEO have regarding the control and disbursement of federally provided matching funds?
Only jurisdiction chief executives (or their designees) may request funds from the Department of Justice, on behalf of the participating law enforcement agencies. Payments may be requested only after vests have been delivered, received, and invoiced. Chief executives are responsible for ensuring that no law enforcement agency within their jurisdiction requests or receives payments in excess of 50% of the cost of vests purchased with program funds.
Our jurisdiction already applied this year but we have additional needs. Can we apply again?
Jurisdictions are permitted to apply only once per program year. The current program year runs until January 15, 2002. Jurisdictions may apply for additional vests during subsequent program years, even though prior year vest orders or payments are still pending.
Our jurisdiction received less than 50% funding for last year's application. Can we reapply for additional funds to increase this share?
Jurisdictions are responsible for determining the best means of meeting their vest needs, using available resources, and purchasing vests, while ensuring adherence to BVP program guidelines and statutory requirements. Jurisdictions may use funds from more than one approved BVP application to purchase vests in approved applications, as long as the total BVP share does not exceed 50% of the vest's total cost.
Will BJA provide both partial and supplemental funding approvals, similar to last year?
The application approval process has been streamlined and will not include partial funding approvals. Jurisdictions applying during the open period will receive one funding approval notification after the program closes.
Can we expect additional funding?
All funding decisions are made after the close of the application period and all available program funds will be committed. No additional funds will be available.
How much will the funding be for our jurisdiction?
The yearly level of participation and requests for this program are unpredictable. Consequently, we cannot provide information about anticipated funding levels for specific jurisdictions. For general planning purposes jurisdictions over 100,000 received approximately 21% of their total application amount and jurisdictions under 100,000 received approximately 43% during the first two years. Given the dynamic nature of available funding and program participation, jurisdictions should complete applications based upon their current vest needs for all eligible law enforcement officers. With accurate and complete information, we will be better able to make informed funding decisions and continue to demonstrate the scope of vest needs for law enforcement officers nationwide.
When funding approval is made which accounts for less than 50% of the requested funds in a jurisdiction's application, who will determine how much each individual law enforcement agency within a jurisdiction receives?
Funding amounts are based on the jurisdiction's population, amount of available funds, and statutory funding requirements. The chief executive of each jurisdiction (or designee) is responsible for determining the process by which the available funding is applied to individual law enforcement agency needs. The chief executive is also responsible for ensuring that law enforcement agencies adhere to imposed limits when completing their receiving reports.
Will there be an application deadline this year?
Program deadlines are prominently displayed on the BVP homepage. They are designed to allow all interested jurisdictions an opportunity to complete and submit their applications. After the application deadline, BJA will approve all pending applications. Jurisdictions will be notified once funding decisions have been made.
How long will it take to get the registration approved and to receive funds once the application is approved?
A minimum of fifteen working days may be required to complete the registration validation process, although jurisdictions and law enforcement agencies will have immediate access to certain application components during this period. A minimum of twenty-five working days may be required for the electronic transfer of funds from the US Treasury to the jurisdiction's bank account, once BVP receives the online payment request.
Do we have to purchase the vests in our approved application by the end of this fiscal year?
Jurisdictions with approved applications may purchase vests and request the federal match through September 30th of the fourth federal fiscal year following the end of the federal fiscal year in which their application was approved. In other words, the jurisdiction has four years beyond the year of their application to purchase vests and request payment for those vests. Payments will be made whenever the jurisdiction indicates that at least part of the approved vest application was received and invoiced.
We have already purchased vests prior to the submission of our current application. Can we include these vests in our application?
NIJ-approved vests purchased on or after March 1, 1999 were eligible for funding.
How are funds generally distributed?
The Act provides for BJA to award funds directly to States (includes the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands), units of local government, and Indian tribes. At least half of the funds will be provided to units of local government with less than 100,000 residents. Funding levels are established using jurisdiction population, available funding, and statutory program set-asides based upon jurisdiction size.
What if I forget my password?
Please e-mail the Vest Help Desk at vests@ojp.gov or call the Vest Help Desk toll-free at 1-877-75-VESTS (1-877-758-3787).
What if my user name and/or password don't work?
Remember that both your user name and password are "case sensitive." That is, sensitive to upper and lower case letters. Try re-entering your user name and password exactly as you did when they were created. If this does not work, please contact the help desk by e-mail at vests@ojp.gov, or call the Vest Help Desk toll-free at 1-877-75-VESTS (1-877-758-3787).
Is there an "Interim Final Rule" available?
The Interim Final Rule was published in the Federal Register. You can link to a copy through the current web site. The Final Rule will be available for online review, once issued.
Is there a Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance reference for this program?
The Vest program has a CFDA number of 16-607. To view the entire document, click here.
Will there be a searchable database resulting from the jurisdictions and agencies registering online?
BJA does not intend to make the program's database accessible for general searches and inquiries. There are a number of readily available alternative sources for basic information about jurisdictions and law enforcement agencies in the United States.
My organization is interested in linking directly from our web page to the Bulletproof Vest Program web page. Do you have any requirements or restrictions?
Agencies and organizations may link to the Vest web site and use the Vest logo as needed.
What Types of Vests Can I Order?
Why do you allow one vest per officer per year when the useful life for vests is generally five years?
This provision best meets the Act's intentions of providing vests for all eligible law enforcement officers. However, only jurisdictions and law enforcement agencies can determine vest serviceability, replacement requirements and schedules. The Bulletproof Vest Program will accept applications covering a maximum of one vest per officer per federal fiscal year. Vests for an officer with dual vest needs (e.g. both concealable and tactical) may not be part of the same year application.
What Vests are Eligible for Funding?
Can we purchase other types of ballistic equipment through this program?
This program only allows the purchase of body armor that has been tested and found to comply with NIJ's Standard 0101.03 Ballistic Resistance of Police Body Armor, NIJ's New Stab Standard 0115.00, or subsequent versions thereof. Therefore, it does not cover ballistic helmets, gloves, or any other type of ballistic equipment.
Our K-9 are considered sworn officers. Can we purchase body armor for K-9 through this program?
Vests provided through this program must be tested and found to comply with the applicable NIJ standard. Vests modified for K-9 units have not been tested by NIJ and are therefore not eligible for matching funds.
Are the stab resistant vests available now?
Yes. NIJ issued the new stab resistant body armor standard 0115.00 in September, 2000. Several vests are now listed in the acceptable list, contained in the vest application.
Are threat level IV vests eligible for funding?
Threat level I and above vests are eligible for funding. Specific makes and models of all NIJ-approved level IV vests are online and viewable, once you register; or you can link to www.nlectc.org for a current listing through the NIJ JustNet site.
Can a jurisdiction buy threat level IV vests for the SWAT team?
As long as the jurisdiction can fund at least 50 percent of the cost, the purchase does not exceed the allowable limits for that jurisdiction, and the vests are in compliance with applicable NIJ standards.
What to Consider When Purchasing Vests?
What type(s) of Vests are being purchased by other Jurisdictions and Law Enforcement Agencies participating in this program?
View Types of Vests Requested on Approved Applications
What is NLECTC?
The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center-National (NLECTC-National), located in Rockville, Maryland, administers the National Institute of Justice's (NIJ's) voluntary compliance testing programs for personal body armor. In addition to processing samples received for testing, NLECTC-National staff routinely responds to inquiries received from law enforcement, corrections, other criminal justice agencies, and product manufacturers about the testing program.
We're going to purchase body armor in the near future. Do you have any advice or suggestions?
NIJ Guide 100-98, Selection and Application Guide to Police Body Armor, contains important information to assist agencies and individual officers in selecting, purchasing, and caring for body armor. Recently, NIJ has just introduced two new body armor standards (one for ballistics and one for stab and puncture resistance), and NLECTC is preparing an updated edition of the Selection & Application Guide. This new edition will probably be available in early 2001. To obtain a copy of the most current version, call NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060, or download a copy from www.nlectc.org.
How does ballistic-resistant body armor work?
When a bullet strikes a body armor panel, the fibers absorb and disperse the energy of the impact across a generalized area. Most concealable body armor is made of a number of layers; these layers assist in the energy dispersion process and help to reduce the effects of blunt trauma, caused by the force of the impacting projectile.
How does stab and puncture resistant body armor work?
Stab and puncture resistant armors are made from a variety of materials. The most commonly used materials are made from extremely strong fibers, which can be either woven or laminated together. Other materials used are metals and composites. As the threat impacts the armor, the materials either deflect the threat, or due to their very high level of cut and/or tear resistance, they "stretch" and the impact forces are dissipated over a larger area of the armor.
Is ballistic-resistant armor also stab/puncture resistant (or vice versa)?
The materials technology that makes body armor ballistically resistant does not necessarily make it stab or puncture resistant (and vice versa). The IACP/DuPont KEVLAR Survivors Clubå has documented a number of incidents over the years where ballistic resistant armor has provided some protection against attacks from a variety of sharp edged and other weapons (i.e., clubs, etc.). However, one should not presume that a ballistic resistant vest will protect against non-ballistic threats, or that a stab resistant vest provides ballistic protection. Armor that complies with NIJ Standards will clearly identify the types and level of threats that they are designed to protect against.
What types of ballistic resistant materials are used to make body armor?
Body armor can be made from a number of different types of woven or non-woven materials. One of the first fibers used for modern ballistic resistant material was Kevlarå, which is made by DuPont. Other materials include Spectraå, which is made by Honeywell (formerly AlliedSignal); Twaronå, made by Accordis (formerly Akzo Nobel), and Zylonå, made by Toyobo. These materials are manufactured in a variety of styles, and can be woven or non-woven (laminated). Hard (non-fabric) armor plates can be made from a number of materials, to include metals, ceramics, and other composite materials.
Which ballistic or stab-resistant material is better?
The NIJ Standards for Personal Body Armor (Ballistic and Stab/Puncture Resistant) establish minimum performance requirements to evaluate specific designs, or "models" of armor. The standard is not intended to be a design specification, which would require manufacturers to use a specific type of material and/or design pattern to achieve a required level of protection. Instead, by measuring only the performance capabilities of the model, this allows armor manufacturers the ability to innovate by using any type or combination of types of materials, as well as design methods, to achieve the required level of protection.
What new technologies have been developed for body armor?
Over the last 20 years, new materials and fabrics have been introduced which have contributed significantly to the wearability of body armor. Body armor manufacturers have also made a number of advances in design technology resulting in body armor with increased ballistic protection capabilities, as well as more flexibility, less weight, and ultimately more comfortable. New materials have also been developed which provide protection against sharp edged and pointed weapons.
Is there a difference between male and female models of armor?
Generally speaking, the difference between male and female models is that for the female body armor, most manufacturers cut and stitch the material to create bust cups. This is why the NIJ Standard views male and female vests as separate models, even though they may be made of exactly the same type and sequence of layers of ballistic materials. When a female model is tested, the laboratory is instructed to locate the seam that is created by folding and/or stitching the material to make the bust cup, and to place one of the shots on that seam. This is done to ensure the weakest point of the vest (typically a seam) provides the minimum level of ballistic protection required by the standard It is important to note that this is a generalization. There are many different types and styles of female vests, and ways of fitting vests to accommodate all of the various sizes and shapes needed for female officers. Some manufacturers have developed methods which "mold" the bust cups into the material, negating the need for cutting and stitching to create a bust cup. Other manufacturers simply alter the outside dimensions of the panel (i.e., enlarging the arm hole openings) to accommodate certain types of builds and body types (commonly referred to as a "unisex" vest). In summary, when selecting a female vest, NIJ and NLECTC recommends that an agency look at and have their officers try on a variety of models from different manufacturers, which have been tested and found to comply with the NIJ Standard for Personal Body Armor. This will assist in selecting the model that provides the best combination of comfort, fit, protection capability, as well as accessories and features. Be sure to ask the manufacturer's representative about ongoing customer support, and what steps they will take to properly measure and fit the vests, as well as making adjustments once the armor have been delivered. Ask the representative for references from other agencies that have purchased their armor, and contact other agencies in your area who have recently purchased armor to learn about their experiences.
What type and threat level of armor should I wear?
First, assess the type of threat you face on a daily basis. Review data from shooting incidents in your area, as well as the types of weapons (firearms, knives, etc.) being confiscated from suspects. Also factor in what type of sidearm and duty ammunition you are carrying; FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) data indicates that approximately 1 in 6 officers that are killed in the line of duty are shot with their own weapon. Other considerations are: the climate in which you work, typical duty assignment, and personal preference considerations (comfort and fit). Again, the decision is ultimately yours. The same concepts apply for correctional officers seeking stab or puncture resistant armor.
What are trauma plates?
Trauma Plates are devices which can be added to the vest over a localized area (most commonly the mass center of the torso) to increase the wearer's protection against blunt trauma injuries. Blunt Trauma injuries are caused by the impact forces of the bullet against the armor, resulting in non-penetrating internal injuries, such as bruises, broken ribs, or other injuries to internal organs. Trauma plates can be made of a hard substance, such as metal wrapped in rubber or ballistic fabric, or they can be made of additional layers of ballistic fabric, similar to an armor panel. Some manufacturers even build trauma plates into the armor panel itself.
Which manufacturer makes the best body armor?
The NIJ Standards for Personal Body Armor (Ballistic and Stab/Puncture Resistant) and the voluntary compliance testing programs operated by NLECTC exist to ensure that models of armor offered for sale to law enforcement and corrections personnel are safe, reliable, and meet minimum performance requirements. Neither NIJ nor NLECTC "endorse" any particular manufacturer or model of armor, but provide a complete listing of all models that have been tested and found to comply with the NIJ Standard. You can access this list, which is updated continuously, through our Internet site at www.nlectc.org. If you do not have access to the Internet, you can also call NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060 to get the most current information on models that comply with the standard.
What is the best way to care for body armor?
Follow the manufacturer's care instructions provided with your armor or refer to the instructions on the armor labels. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the ballistic performance capabilities of the armor. The Selection and Application Guide to Personal Body Armor contains general guidelines on how to properly care for armor. This document can be obtained by calling NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060, or can be downloaded from www.nlectc.org.
How long does body armor last?
There are a number of factors that can influence the service life cycle of body armor. NIJ has sponsored research that indicates that age is not the only factor in determining the service life of armor. Other factors to consider include: how regularly the armor was worn; how it was cared for; does the armor fit the wearer properly (most people lose or gain weight over a period of years); and the overall condition of the armor (do the fasteners still work properly, and so on). We encourage departments to have a routine inspection program for body armor, just as they would for weapons, vehicles, and other types of issued equipment. The Selection and Application Guide to Personal Body Armor contains a sample form which can be used as a checklist when inspecting armor.
How do I dispose of my old vest?
Check with your department to see if they have a policy regarding the disposal of used body armor. If they don't, there are several organizations that accept donations of used vests for distribution to law enforcement agencies here in the U.S. Check with your local Fraternal Order of Police. If you are not comfortable donating your armor to another agency, you may also contact the manufacturer of your vest to determine if they will dispose of your armor. Some agencies have also used retired armor in the door panels of police cars or special operations vehicles.
I understand that NIJ has published a new standard for ballistic resistant armor. What are the major differences between the new version and NIJ Standard-0101.03?
In September 2000, NIJ released NIJ Standard-0101.04, Ballistic Resistance of Personal Body Armor. This revision, the first of this standard in 13 years, was the result of a three-year effort that included input from the law enforcement, body armor manufacturing, and fiber manufacturing communities. The Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) coordinated the development of this new revision, performing most of the research, with support from various components of the NLECTC Centers System.
Do models that comply with NIJ Standard-0101.03 automatically comply with NIJ Standard-0101.04?
No. NIJ still continues to recognize the compliance status of models found to comply with NIJ Standard-0101.03 to that edition of the standard. If a manufacturer desires to submit a model of 0101.03-compliant armor to NLECTC for testing to 0101.04, they can, and if it is found to comply with 0101.04, then it will be recognized as complying with both editions of the standard.
OK, but what happens if that 0101.03-compliant model fails to comply with the requirements of 0101.04?
Models that comply with NIJ Standard-0101.03 cannot "lose" their compliance status to that edition of the standard if they do not comply with the requirements of 0101.04. The model will still be recognized as compliant with 0101.03, but cannot be considered for further testing to 0101.04.
Can manufacturers still submit new models of armor for testing to NIJ Standard-0101.03?
No. As of October 2, 2000, all models of armor submitted to NLECTC for compliance testing will be tested in accordance with NIJ Standard-0101.04.
Is armor that complies with NIJ Standard-0101.04 "better" than armor that complies with NIJ Standard-0101.03?
NO. It has only been tested to a different version of the standard. The development of NIJ Standard-0101.04 incorporates the knowledge and experience that has been gained in the past thirteen years of armor testing, takes into account the advances in materials and design technology that have occurred in the industry, and updates the threats which the armor is tested against. It is simply the next evolutionary step in the development of NIJ's voluntary compliance testing program for ballistic resistant armor, ensuring that law enforcement and corrections officers have access to armor which is safe, reliable, and meets currently defined protection needs.
With the release of NIJ Standard-0101.04, does this mean that we have to replace all the armor we have that complies with NIJ Standard-0101.03, including those we just purchased?
NO. The advent and exclusive use of NIJ Standard-0101.04 in the Voluntary Compliance Testing Program does not imply that existing NIJ Standard-0101.03 compliant armor is in any way unsuitable for continued purchase and everyday use. In fact, such armor will still provide the same proven high degree of protection and performance that NIJ Standard-0101.03 demanded and produced. NIJ Standard-0101.03 compliant armor should not be considered inadequate or obsolete; it is simply armor that has not been tested and found compliant to NIJ Standard-0101.04's different requirements.
If a manufacturer offers to sell us a model that complies with NIJ Standard-0101.03, should we purchase it?
If you determine that this model meets all of your protection and user defined requirements, then there is no reason not to purchase it. NIJ Standard-0101.03 compliant armor should not be considered inadequate or obsolete; it is simply armor that has not been tested and found compliant to NIJ Standard-0101.04's different requirements.
I'm a Correctional Officer, and I'm more interested in a vest that provides stab/puncture protection instead of ballistic protection. What assistance can you provide?
For almost 30 years, NIJ has been a leader in the development and testing of ballistic-resistant armor. In September 2000, NIJ released NIJ Standard-0115.00, Stab Resistance of Personal Body Armor. This standard is the result of a three-year collaborative effort between the Office of Law Enforcement Standards, the U.S. Secret Service and the Police Scientific Development Branch of the United Kingdom, and establishes the first national minimum performance requirements for stab and puncture resistant armor. NIJ Standard-0115.00 classifies armor into two protection classes, spike (puncture-resistant) and edged blade. For each protection class, there are three protection levels against which the armor can be tested. A voluntary compliance testing program has been established by NLECTC in accordance with this new standard, and models found to comply are listed in the Body Armor Database at www.nlectc.org.
Who tests the armor to determine if it complies with NIJ Standards?
Only NIJ-approved independent testing laboratories are recognized as official testing facilities for compliance testing to NIJ Standards. A complete list of NIJ approved laboratories can be found on JUSTNET at www.nlectc.org, or call NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5149.
How is armor submitted for testing?
The manufacturer submitting an armor model for testing must first negotiate a testing contract with an NIJ-approved testing laboratory. Neither NIJ nor NLECTC accepts any payment for testing services. The manufacturer then submits samples to NLECTC, where they are examined for workmanship and labeling requirements, which are defined in the NIJ Standards. If the samples successfully complete this examination, they are sent to the approved laboratory that the manufacturer has negotiated the testing contract with. The laboratory performs the test in accordance with the standard, and prepares a report of the test. The samples and the report are returned to NLECTC, where they are again examined and compared to the laboratory report. If the armor complies with the standard, a letter is issued to the manufacturer for that model and the model is listed on the Personal Body Armor Consumer Product List (CPL), which can be accessed at www.nlectc.org.
How does a laboratory obtain NIJ approval to conduct body armor testing?
To become an NIJ-approved laboratory, the laboratory must submit an application (available from NLECTC) which will be reviewed by NIJ to determine if the laboratory is technically capable of performing the testing. NLECTC will then conduct an on-site inspection that includes witnessing the testing of actual samples, and the laboratory prepares a report of the test and returns the tested samples and report to NLECTC, where they are checked for accuracy. If the laboratory successfully completes all of these requirements, NIJ will issue a letter to the laboratory notifying them that they are an NIJ-approved laboratory, and are authorized to conduct testing in accordance with NIJ Standards. Manufacturers and other interested parties will also be notified of the laboratory's status. NIJ accepts applications from interested laboratories on a continuing basis. Laboratories seeking NIJ-approved status should contact NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060. It is also important to note that laboratories are approved to perform testing in accordance with a specific NIJ Standard. A test laboratory must complete a separate application and go through the complete approval process for each NIJ Standard they wish to perform testing for.
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