1. What is this equipment used for?
Body protection equipment is basically designed to protect the torso, i.e. the chest and abdomen against:
- physical hazards (eg weapons or vehicles);
- biological hazards (eg human waste); And
- chemical hazards (eg toxic or corrosive substances).
It is essential to choose the right type of protection see this profile: Tastine. The manager’s risk assessment should identify the hazards likely to be encountered.
2. What types of coverage are available?
High-visibility clothing:
this clothing must allow you to be seen when you have to work near moving vehicles, for example in docks or on the side of the road. There are three types, each of which has reflective strips so that you are clearly visible if the ambient light is poor:
- vests;
- long-sleeved vests; And
- three-quarter length jackets.
The long-sleeved vests feature additional fluorescent stripes and are designed for use near high-speed traffic (e.g. active officers or crews on public roads) as well as in all port areas. For the performance of certain tasks in poorly lit areas, you can also have high visibility pants or reflective strips. Be sure to wear the right type of high visibility clothing.All high visibility clothing must comply with national standards or their European equivalents.High visibility garments should be kept clean to remain effective by wiping them down regularly with warm soapy water, which is especially important for fluorescent strips.Disposable overalls:
a) Low risk: these paper or plastic coveralls are intended for officers dealing with persons suspected of having concealed narcotics in their bodies (drug couriers) in order to reduce the risk of contamination by micro-organisms. -organisms present in human waste (the risk of infection is in principle low if the sample isolation toilets are used correctly). Disposable masks and gloves are also available.
b) High Risk:these are suits made of microporous laminates with stitched seams and taped seams that protect officers from the risk of exposure when handling highly hazardous/toxic substances as well as infectious agents, blood and fluids bodily.Wear disposable coveralls when dealing with drug couriers (internal concealment of drugs in the body) and there is a risk of contamination from human waste. Disposable coveralls are primarily designed for protection against biohazards and toxic substances, but offer little or no protection against harsh chemicals.
Full coveralls plus protective gloves and respiratory protection should be worn when handling dangerous goods or chemicals of unknown composition.Disposable tracksuits should be stored in a clean, dry place while waiting to be used. Once used, they should be discarded. Keep in mind that they will probably have to be treated as hazardous waste. Place used tracksuits in a separate well-sealed bag, which will be removed for incineration by an approved company.
Oil resistant tracksuits:
These tracksuits are designed for use when you have to work in oily or grimy areas. They protect both your body and your usual work clothes.
Armored clothing:
Body armor may be provided to staff members who come into direct contact with potentially dangerous individuals. It must be fitted correctly and officers must receive appropriate training before using it.
For more information, please refer to the legislation and guidance of your national administration.