The Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) was enacted as law in 1998 as a U.S. Department of Justice initiative designed to provide funding to purchase body armor for law enforcement. Since 1999, BVP has awarded $447 million to over 13,000 jurisdictions nationwide helping to purchase more than 1.3 million vests. The Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act currently allows jurisdictions to be reimbursed up to 50% of the cost of body armor purchased for law enforcement officers. Current law gives priority funding to jurisdictions with fewer than 100,000 residents. To be eligible to qualify for the reimbursement, body armor purchased must comply with the most current NIJ body armor standards as of the date of purchase and the agency is required to have a mandatory wear policy.
Participation in BVP can be achieved in 3- Easy Steps:
STEP 1: REGISTER ONLINE
Continuous Open Registration and you are Encouraged to do it NOW!!! New users can provide contact and banking information throughout the year.
STEP 2: ONLINE APPLICATION
This is done during the Open Application Period which is Typically in Q1 and most recently was 4/11-5/29. On the application, agencies will identify the total number, type, and projected cost of vests for each eligible participating law enforcement officer. You must complete Steps 1 and 2 by the Application Closing Date.
The BVP program makes funding decisions three to four months after the “open application period” ends. DOJ Funding Decisions are typically decided and allocated in September/October timeframe. Applicants are then notified via email regarding approved funding levels. Remember that priority funding is granted to jurisdictions of 100,000 residents and Less.
You may purchase your vest prior to the Open Application Period but NOT sooner than 1 April to qualify for reimbursement. Vest are required to meet most current NIJ standards and be on the CPL. Vests can be purchased through any vest distributor meeting these requirements.
STEP 3: ONLINE PAYMENT & REIMBURSEMENT REQUESTS
To be submitted any time after purchasing your vests and once vests are delivered, complete an online receiving report and request for payment.
HighCom is proud to serve the women and men in Law Enforcement across the Country and would be honored to help you and your agency with obtaining body armor approved for BVP funding.
Please visit our dedicated resource page for more information or contact us to learn more about our armor and how we can help you choose the most effective protective system.
Below is a personal review of the Guardian 3S11M from Brandon Buhler founder of Firearms, Weapons, and Tactics Google + Community. Brandon Buhler was raised on a Farm in Central Kansas. Due to the rural midwest lifestyle, he became acclimated with firearms at a very young age. This has been a passion of his throughout his life. Brandon can be found training with Law Enforcement and Military in his spare time as well as writing about all things Firearms, Weapons, and Tactics.
This is going to be a semi detailed look at body armor specifically HighCom Armor’s Guardian 3S11M. This will be from my point of view with some options I considered on a personal level and why I think you should too.
The single most important thing when considering armor is the company its coming from period. This next comment is going to be for civilians as Military and LEO are going to know better. The behaviors I have seen over and over are nearly identical so I hope to help some of you not make those mistakes. You are not going to be buying body armor, throwing some rounds at it, deciding its good, and buying another set you’re comfortable with. You have to trust the manufacturer is 100% on the development, testing, and manufacturing. For those first time armor buyers, please pay attention. Do not shop for a pair of plates, buy something not reputable you’re guessing can’t be terrible, only to receive it and its crap, or mediocre, or doesn’t fit your needs. It will end up going into your safe and staying there. It’s either too heavy never to be used, the materials are questionable, you make excuses it’s for the xyz scenario so you’ll risk the poor anti spall coat in an emergency that has a good chance of sending a bullet frag into your neck or a round straight threw the plate or whatever other disaster you’re flirting with. Please don’t do this. Now that that is out of the way.
LET’S START WITH NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE (NIJ)
NIJ establishes and updates the minimum performance standards for body armor. This means testing these standards to make sure sure body armor complies or exceeds them. This is the benchmark for performance and this lets you know what you can expect without having to shoot your own armor to find out. One thing to keep in mind and this is important is not all NIJ is equal. NIJ 0101.04 as well as NIJ 0101.06 are below for an idea. Stay current on nij.gov.
Total number of shots for soft armor: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005) = 48 shots / 24 each cal. NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 144 shots / 72 each cal.
Number of shots new armors: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005)= 48 shots / 24 each cal. NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 72 shots / 48 each cal.
Number of shots artificially aged armors: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005) = none. NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 48 shots / 24 each cal
Total number of BFS measurements: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005) = 16 BFS / 8 each cal. NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 48 shots / 24 each cal.
Total number of shots Level III hard armors: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005) = 18 shots NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 24 shots
Total number of shots Level IV hard armors: NIJ 0101.04 (Interim 2005) = 8 shots NIJ 0101.06 (NIJ 06) = 24 shots
Now that you have an idea, testing is tough. Heated, tumbled for 10 days, cooled for testing. It is worth mentioning that there are other ballistic testing criteria a few armor manufacturers pursue like the DEA Hard Armor Protocol. This is unique and rare for manufacturers but puts these companies like HighCom in a class of their own. Bottomline, if you want the highest levels of tested protection look for NIJ certified as well as FBI or DEA complaint.
HOW DOES BODY ARMOR WORK?
Body armor stops bullet penetration. The material being used is designed to exceed certain bullet resistance specifications (NIJ). Impact energy is absorbed. Please keep in mind, even with the very best armor, if a bullet does not penetrate the body there is still a possibility of injury including death. Blunt trauma injuries are a result of the backward movement of the vest when the projectile hits. It does not come to a complete stop upon initial impact. The projectile strikes the body armor, the body armor moves backward into the body creating a force that can cause these potentially fatal injuries. If that is scary please understand why it’s important to be certain your plates will stop the penetration. While that is your body armors primary job it is critical it helps mitigate the blunt trauma force.
LEVEL OF THREAT PROTECTION
Type II: New armor protects against 8 g (124 gr) 9 mm FMJ RN bullets at a velocity of 398 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1305 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and 10.2 g (158 gr) .357 Magnum Jacketed Soft Point bullets at a velocity of 436 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1430 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). Conditioned armor protects against 8 g (124 gr) 9 mm FMJ RN bullets at a velocity of 379 m/s ±9.1 m/s (1245 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and 10.2 g (158 gr) .357 Magnum Jacketed Soft Point bullets at a velocity of 408 m/s ±9.1 m/s (1340 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). It also provides protection against the threats mentioned in [Types I and IIA].
Type IIIA: New armor protects against 8.1 g (125 gr) .357 SIG FMJ Flat Nose (FN) bullets at a velocity of 448 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1470 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and 15.6 g (240 gr) .44 Magnum Semi Jacketed Hollow Point (SJHP) bullets at a velocity of 436 m/s (1430 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). Conditioned armor protects against 8.1 g (125 gr) .357 SIG FMJ Flat Nose (FN) bullets at a velocity of 430 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1410 ft/s ± 30 ft/s) and 15.6 g (240 gr) .44 Magnum Semi Jacketed Hollow Point (SJHP) bullets at a velocity of 408 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (1340 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). It also provides protection against most handgun threats, as well as the threats mentioned in [Types I, IIA, and II].
Type III: Conditioned armor protects against (rifles) 9.6 g (148 gr) 7.62×51mm NATO M80 ball bullets at a velocity of 847 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (2780 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). It also provides protection against the threats mentioned in [Types I, IIA, II, and IIIA].
Type IV: Compliance at Type IV for hard armor or plate inserts requires that samples be tested in a conditioned state with .30 caliber armor piercing (AP) bullets (U.S. Military designation M2 AP) with a specified mass of 10.8 g (166 gr) and a velocity of 878 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (2880 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). Compliance at Type IV for flexible armor requires that samples be tested in both the “as new” state and the conditioned state with .30 caliber AP bullets (U.S. Military designation M2 AP) with a specified mass of 10.8 g (166 gr) and a velocity of 878 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (2880 ft/s ± 30 ft/s).
It’s up to each individual to determine what they feel comfortable running. Keep reading and I will offer my personal thought process and usage cases.
MATERIALS
This is where things get fun and it’s also fascinating how technology is evolving. You have 2 body armor types, soft and hard. These vary in weight and threat protection.
Soft armor materials will be aramid fibers like Kevlar. Hard armor ranges from steel, ceramics, polyethylene.
Aramids are synthetic fibers that are heat resistant and as expected, incredibly strong with outstanding strength to weight ratios.
Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene or UHMWPE. This has some similar characteristics to para-aramids but is a type of polyolefin. Essentially extremely long chains of polyethylene.
Steel, which doesn’t need much of an introduction.
Ceramic or ceramic composites.
You have a lot of plates to choose from. Level II, Level IIIA, Level III, Level III+,Level 4, Specials Threats, Trauma Plates to name a few.
Each one of these differ in threat protection, strength, weight, and of course price. There is no real right or wrong. Run something that fits your threat level needs, at a weight you know you will stay vigilant with the training, from a company that is proven.
SIZE AND FIT
These range from concealable to various sizes. Plates can range from 5×7, 5×8, 6×6, 8×10, 10×12, 7.25×11.5, 8.75×11.75, 9.5×12.5, 10.125×13.25, 11×14. Plates can be found in cuts like swimmers cut, full cut, shooters cut curved or flat. I see a lot of questions about curved plates so I am going to squash this right now, I will always buy curved plates period. I personally would spend whatever it takes for curved.
The size of your plates should match your plate carrier in my opinion. Both my training plate carrier and main carrier are Sapi size. Sure I could throw 10×12 in there with inserts but that is not something I would do. I run the SAPI L 10.125 x 13.25 the carriers are designed for. Your usage case may vary.
WHAT SHOULD I PICK?
As seen above there are some trade offs when considering armor type. First thing I consider, is the company reputable? I know what level of threat protection I am looking for. Does the manufacturer provide the cuts, threat protection, size I need? Are they certified so I don’t have to worry about it? Next thing I look at is weight and strength and the balance of the situation I am preparing for. My usage case has evolved over the years and I am going to discuss this a bit as we move forward with key considerations.
We’re taking this off the reservation a bit.
Now that you have a better understanding of body armor I want to talk about some practical usage cases. As mentioned above, mine has changed. There are a few reasons for this and why it has lead me to where I am today in terms of functional defensive decision making. I won’t be covering carrier setup, if there is any interest, I am happy to discuss plate carrier setup in another discussion but that is a bit out of scope and getting into the weeds for this discussion.
Like many, my first plates were decent quality but certainly not anywhere close to great. They were heavy. They sat in my safe most of the time which is a huge no no. Load-out was functional but not very practical primarily due to what I picked out. I should have saved my money if I’m being honest because I could have put that towards something else later that would be used multiple times a week. I would wear my armor to the range or occasionally a class. The biggest issue I was running into is my armor sucked. Sucked to wear. Sucked moving in. As a result, I wasn’t running it as frequently and to make matters worse I could tell I was getting rusty when I did wear it. Really rusty. As in, if I needed it would I have to the speed, mobility, and proficiency to save a life without risking throwing mine away? The answer was no so it was time to change.
I am fortunate I have had so many opportunities to go hands on with sometimes good and sometimes not so good body armor. Exploring plates in your hands is a bit different than training in it so while I was always envious of nicer armor, I could easily acknowledge its benefits, I’ll just blame my immaturity for not moving faster on my own personal kit and instead opting to settle.
My goal is to live a long life and provide for my family and loved ones so they can out live me. Part of that is being prepared. This includes taking care of myself physically. It didn’t take long to intermingle these goals. Two things I can control needed done and both fit my body armor decision. Thinkers before shooters. I enjoy fitness and it was extremely easy to integrate an armor choice based on this. I know people feel different about these things but there is a reason in basic you are made fit to fight. This shouldn’t stop with age or service. Enough with the excuses. My mindset has always been for the unlikely scenario of a burning house. Could I carry out people if needed? Am I physically prepared if a feat of strength or endurance was necessary to take care of my wife or daughter, a stranger in need? Failing a test like this doesn’t even cross my mind and it shouldn’t for you either. If it does, you need to message me so we can recalibrate your mindset and get you properly motivated. If you’re still reading, I’d like to think you are that man or women who is ready to serve the greater good if ever called on. This is why my usage case changed as I began to mature with my training decisions and kit. Work smarter not harder.
HOW I GOT TO WHERE I AM
Back to having the opportunity to play with various weapons systems, accessories, body armor, and all kinds of kit in general. Not everyone is this lucky. They get to read some reviews, see articles in magazines, people talking about various items in the forums or post on Social Media. So here I am being the one sharing the information. A lot of you know me via Social Media since I started the Firearms, Weapons, and Tactics community years ago. I get to see some quality items and unfortunately some that are not so. Over the years there has been a few body armor manufacturers I have just coveted over due to quality and reputation. One that is at the top of my list is HighCom Armor. Why HighCom? Why not someone else? For me, like the other questions I’ve mentioned this is simple, what is battle tested?
HERE IS A QUICK LOOK AT HIGHCOM ARMOR
HighCom was established in 1997 with a purpose to solve problems. Preventing holes is at the top of the list. Owned, operated, designed, and manufactured in America. They develop, test, manufacture, and distribute more than 2 dozen National Institute of Justice (NIJ) compliant hard and soft armor products. This is a big one we’ve talked about. HighCom Armor has a state of the art in-house ballistics lab and is currently capable of testing armor products to standards including Mil-STD-662F V50, NATO STANAG 2920 FSP Testing, NATO STANAG 4569 Level 1-3, UL 752, NIJ 0101.04, NIJ 0101.06, NIJ 0106.01, NIJ 0108.01 and HOSDB. The amount of rigorous testing with 100% probability of stopping the round its rated means you don’t have to worry about that side. The side that is behind the plate. HighCom Armor’s NIJ 0101.06 certified armor has a 10 year warranty. They were the first BA 9000 certified organization. Regarding being battle tested over 1,000,000 ballistic armor pieces have moved to the DoD and other government agencies including Law Enforcement, Military, and Civilian. HighCom Armor has never had a failure, a penetration, or recall of their armor. To reiterate, never had a failure.
HIGHCOM ARMOR GUARDIAN 3S11M
I will say immediately, the Guardian 3S11M is hands down the nicest body armor I have seen. Even the way its packaged shows a meticulous level of detail and care. Make no mistake though, these are made to work.
This armor is Level III having a curved plate design that is certified compliant by NIJ for 0101.06. This protects against FN FAL 7.62x51mm NATO M80 ball bullets at a velocity of 847m/s +/- 9.1m/s (2780ft/s +/- 30ft/s). AK47 AKM, SKS 7.62x39mm Ball 2380/725. M16/AR15 5.56x45mm M193 3150/960. It is Rifle Special Threats Validated.
GUARDIAN 3S11M HARD ARMOR PLATE TEST
The Guardian 3S11M is UHMWPE based and it is super light. Easily worth the investment. Measurements are approximate. I weighed each plate at 3 lbs 15.8 ounces with the sticker. HighCom has these listed at 3.8 lbs. Keep in mind, these are a SAPI size in a shooter cut so they are larger than the typical 10×12 inch plates. You can expect your 10×12 to weigh in less than 3 lbs a plate! These are extremely light, as in floats in water light, literally. The exterior is wrapped in 1000D Cordura textured nylon with nothing hanging off the plates. Quality. Thickness was right at1.25 inches. These are absolutely state of the art design and finish body armor plates.
So what is it like wearing these if you’re a first time buyer or looking to upgrade? I can say for me, the Guardian 3S11M is a buy once cry once experience. It is still hard for me to believe how incredibly light these are with the level of threat protection they provide. I mentioned some of my behaviors with training along with my goals and what I am comfortable with from a safety standpoint and how they have changed dramatically since getting this armor. I went from armor that was worn during training classes occasionally and on range day. With the 3S11M I am essentially running these plates with such frequency I will never have to wonder “what if” should something happen and I am needed. I have two plate carriers this armor moves in and out of. 1 is for training that is not as heavily equipped. The other is a full setup. I haven’t been on a trail run or been hiking without this armor since I’ve gotten it. These plates are so light my 2.5 mile brown trail run time has stayed virtually the same. The curved plate design has the 3S11M sticking to my body like a glove. I do not pretend to know how HighCom Armor decides the best angle for the curve on their armor but it is literally perfect. No bounce or movement from the plate carrier when running. No rubs. No sore back. Rather its mobility training, fitness training, or combat training, there is no excuses not to wear the 3S11M.
Armor that isn’t a burden to wear changes everything from a functional standpoint. Mobility acclimation due to frequency of usage has me closing in on shaving off 2 seconds from my reload time. You don’t fight around the armor, the armor is part of you.
I wore the 3S11M for 8.5 hours to test some longer usage case scenarios. My intentions were for 8 hours but lost track of the time. Nothing intense, just a regular day to day. Few highlights though went on a 1.5 hour hike. Sat in traffic for an hour. Not a single complaint. Ironically being forced into a straighter, non-slacking posture was a benefit. That’s something else I need to work on.
I haven’t covered everything body armor related but this gives you a good idea and what to look for. I want to stress a few points. You do not have to buy body armor and stick in your safe and wait for an emergency. This isn’t practical if you want to stay both fit to fight and top form from a functional mobility standpoint. You need to wear it, you need to move in it, you need to train in it. For Law Enforcement, if you’re out on your Motorcycle, your Trek, sitting in your squad car, at a desk, or on foot you already know the pros and cons of body armor from comfort to mobility. You can’t put a price on this. You can’t put a price on shaving time off of a speed reload because you’ve been practicing in the event you ever need those seconds either. Not being winded after moving or feeling clustered with your armor and a sling. Active Duty and Veterans get this. First Responders.
HighCom Armor has an entire range of resources for defensive protection. HighCom Armor has plates made for backpacks that are light enough you won’t know they are there. They have a robust selection from plates that can go into a backpack to ballistic blankets, ballistic shields, and virtually any size plate with every threat level rating you can imagine. Armor comes with a QR code for scanning that would come in handy for any Dept issuing. Scan the QR and you get the Manufacturer, Model Number, Size, Lot#, Serial #, Threat Level, D.O.M, Job. HighCom Armor doesn’t need any help from me but there is a reason they have their track record, ratings, and contracts. If you are in the market give them a hard look and consider what you’re getting. On a personal note I am thrilled be able to run their plates especially when there are still body armor manufacturers that refuse to sell armor to civilians. HighCom Armor is taking care of everyone and I know I am protected and so will you be, or anyone else behind their plates.
From sophisticated bombs to improvised explosive devices (IED), sometimes all it takes is some household chemicals and ordinary products to create a bomb or IED. For instance, take a look at pressure cooker bombs which have been detonated multiple times around the world in recent decades. In April 2013, two pressure cooker bombs, filled with nails, ball bearings, and black powder, were detonated in the Boston Marathon bombings. IEDs are relatively easy to construct. Most of the materials required can be easily obtained and the bomb can be triggered using a simple electronic device such as a digital watch, garage door opener, cell phone, timer, or alarm clock.
When it comes to responding to a potential bomb situation, first responders need protection for themselves and others by eliminating any direct contact with a bomb and provide a safe environment for its examination and disposal. There needs to be a solution for serious threat situations which provides a portable and quick-to-deploy way to shelter people and property from the destructive effects of explosive devices and small bombs.
WHAT IS BLASTWRAP?
BlastWrap® is designed to mitigate the blast effects of an explosion by rapidly extinguishing the fireball, eliminating burns and post-blast fires, and reducing the subsequent over-pressures by more than 50%, thus reducing damage to people and property.
BlastWrap® is scientifically engineered and designed to remove much or most of the energy from an explosion. It actually interferes with the blast energy process. BlastWrap® dissipates blast shock wave energy through irreversible processes, such as drag, turbulence, friction, viscosity, reflection, etc. and at the same time, BlastWrap® dramatically quenches the flame fronts or fireballs created as a result of the explosion in milliseconds. BlastWrap® also kills the phenomena of after-burn which can initiate post-blast fires.
The performance of BlastWrap® proprietary technology is independent of scenario and environment, which means that it does not matter where the physical location is, how the basic product form is used or the environment in which the event takes place. The basic product form can be used as a stand-alone material (as linings, curtain barriers, or as structural material), or can be laminated or otherwise affixed to a wide range of product forms such as insulation (thermal and acoustic), ballistic armor, or packaging materials. BlastWrap® products can thus provide blast and fire protection in flooring, wall, and roof constructions, in packaging, in storage cabinets and other containment structures, and aboard all types of vehicles, ships, and aircraft.
There are no other products available in the marketplace with such dramatic pressure and impulse reduction and such low a momentum exchange. BlastWrap® also differs from other technologies in that it doesn’t offer another armored barrier at a protected position but provides a proven method of reducing blast energy at source or before it can interact with structure.
WHY IS BLASTWRAP THE ONLY “TRUE” BOMB MITIGATING BLANKET?
To date, ballistic blankets have been designed to offer level IIIA ballistic protection in a wide variety of tactical situations. Ballistic Blankets can be quickly and easily thrown over windows, doors and walls, or used as a personal shield in hazardous situations. The Blanket is ideal for use in police and military vehicles as it can provide ballistic protection for the seat, window or door. However, a ballistic blanket was never designed to mitigate the effects of a blast. While the ballistic blanket would be effective in capturing frag threats from an explosion, it cannot suppress or absorb the blast itself.
Mitigation of blast effects is the dissipation of blast energy so that acoustic and shock waves, peak overpressure, reflected peak overpressure, impulse and after-burn are reduced. This reduction is accomplished through both physical and chemical processes that are triggered when a blast occurs. The remaining energy is transmitted at a slower, more sustainable level. The amount of reflected energy is significantly reduced with mitigation.
Therefore, in order to deal effectively with any threat in which there are ballistic and/or fragment threats in addition to a blast threat, the combination of armor with BlastWrap® technology provides a complete solution. By combining a ballistic blanket with a sleeve of BlastWrap®, a superior solution of protection is available to place over suspected IEDs contained in small packages such as a briefcase or backpack as well as for covering pipe bombs. The combination of a ballistic blanket plus BlastWrap® can be used to protect personnel and structures from the effects of an explosion that also produces penetrating fragments.
HighCom Armor’s Stingray Level IIIA Ballistic Blanket with BlastWrap® provides the only TRUE bomb mitigating blanket. The BlastWrap® Sleeve clips on to HighCom’s Stingray blanket, to allow operators to easily and quickly deploy in critical situations. Ballistic capability of our blankets is independently tested according to the NIJ 0108.01 standard and our BlastWrap® is independently tested against severe large capacity and destructive explosive threats. Regardless of the material or compound causing the explosion, BlastWrap® is able to mitigate blasts and suppress flash fires resulting from explosions. When used in conjunction with our Stingray blanket, the BlastWrap® Sleeve insert dramatically reduces an operators risk from explosives as well as ballistic threats.
Helmets are among the oldest forms of personal protective equipment dating as far back as the 23rd century BC. The modern tactical helmet was originally designed to protect users from fragmentation and handgun rounds. Today, helmets are built to be a high-performing, lightweight solution for military and law enforcement, and are available in a wide range of helmet styles, shapes, and configurations.
When researching high-quality tactical helmets, we understand how important it is that you purchase helmets that will provide as much protection as possible to your most valued assets…your people. A tactical helmet should be rigorously tested and designed to meet the high demands of the US military. Whether you’re on a combat mission overseas or working in law enforcement at home, the helmets that you use should have impact-reduction that is imperative to the line of duty protection.
Choosing the best tactical helmet can seem like a daunting task, so we have put together this checklist to help you when purchasing a helmet for yourself or your agency.
1. Helmets should be rigorously tested according to NIJ Standard 0106.01 as well as to the Mil-Std 662f, Stanag 2920, and the HPW-TP-0401B standards.
2. Helmets should be tested and validated to meet or exceed ballistic resistance as specified under NIJ Standard 0106.01 by an NVLAP accredited laboratories
3. Your helmet provider should have a quality partnership with leaders in material science to study back force trauma and what it does to the brain. – D30, DUPONT, TEAM WENDY, HONEYWELL, PAULSON, OPS CORE, DSM
4. The tactical helmet should include padding, suspension, and harness systems combined to provide a complete integral protective system.
5. The helmet should “integrate” with armor and other tactical gear that are utilized with various deployment requirements.
6. The helmet should have a Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) that is specified for use on tactical military equipment, including ground, aviation, munitions, and related support equipment. CARC has the ability to withstand the harsh chemicals used in the decontamination process.
7. The helmet manufacturer should be confident in backing up their product with a MINIMUM 5-year warranty on all ballistic material and 1 year on exterior cover material and workmanship.
Our helmets meet all of the highest standards, requirements, and specifications of At HighCom, we test our helmets against many standards such as in accordance with NIJ, Mil-Std, ASTM, CRASH, including critical impact and trauma standards to ensure proper end results to protect our operators no matter what the deployment purpose. The ballistic capability of our helmets includes independent tests according to the NIJ 0106.01 standard. We also perform testing against V50 and special threats and can work with specific demands of our customer requirements to protect against other domestic and international or custom designed threat assessments when requested.
We want you to be able to focus on the mission without being distracted with concerns about your protective equipment. Our helmets are designed to be high performing while ensuring a lightweight solution for our customers. And because our helmets are designed and manufactured using US Mil-Spec standards and materials from leading companies like DuPont, Honeywell, and DSM, we are able to warranty and ensure a long life of consistent and reliable use for our customers deploying in all combat and tactical situations.
We offer a wide range of helmet styles, shapes, and configurations for use by military and law enforcement throughout the world and we can accommodate any budget, function, and situation. We have the highest quality product with the best protection at the price point to the end user.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you choose the most effective rifle armor to save lives. Or check out our latest armor testing videos to see us in action.
Did you know, there are about 790,000 police officers in the United States? National Police Week and National EMS Week are two weeks out of the year, in May, that are dedicated to honoring those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice serving in our local communities all over the United States. National Police Week was from Sunday, May 13th to Saturday, May 19th with May 15th being National Peace Officers Memorial Day. National EMS week was from May 20th to May 26th with both weeks being full of events within local communities in the United States.
In 1962 President John F. Kennedy proclaimed that May 15th was National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which May 15th fell was to be National Police Week. National Police Week has been created to honor and pay tribute to the local, state and federal police officers, who have died or been disabled in the line of duty. There are a number of memorials that local communities host to honor these men and women, including events every day of the week in Washington D.C. where men and women from around the United States stand side by side to honor fallen officers.
EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Week brings together local communities all over the United States and medical personnel to honor the dedication of those who every day provide lifesaving services on America’s “Front Line”. EMS, also known as ambulance or paramedic services, are emergency services that can treat illnesses and injuries that require urgent medical response outside of the hospital and then transport to definitive healthcare. The 2018 theme for EMS week is “Stronger Together”. The purpose of EMS is to provide immediate medical care to people who most need it, which can include someone having a heart attack and car accidents that would lead to many more fatalities. The EMS exists to give everyone in our communities a better quality of life. Maryland hosts a number of events for National EMS week including the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride that pays tribute to the EMS and air medical men and women that have fallen.
National Police Week and National EMS Week are two separate weeks out of the year that we get to honor the men and women who have risked their lives and who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our local communities. At HighCom we are proud to partner with Law Enforcement and EMS agencies all over the world to ensure that we protect those who protect us.
Comparison of National Institute of Justice Body Armor Standards NIJ 0101.04 (NIJ 2005IR) vs. NIJ 0101.06
Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor NIJ Standard-0101.06 is the latest published National Institute of Justice standard that sets minimum resistance requirements as well as test methods to be followed for ballistic resistant vests and ballistic resistant plates. The standard specifically addresses the Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor regarding soft armor panels “Vests” and hard armor panels “Rifle Armor Inserts”.
The NIJ Standard-0101.06 does not include: Edged Blade/Spike Weapons referenced in Stab Resistance of Personal Body Armor (NIJ Standard–0115.00). Nor does it address the NIJ Standard for Ballistic Helmets (NIJ Standard-0106.01), Ballistic Resistant Shields or other products that may fall under Ballistic Resistant Protective Materials (NIJ standard 0108.01). Each of these standards are considered independent National Institute of Justice standards.
NIJ standard 0101.06 replaces the following standards
NIJ standard 0101.04 (2001)
NIJ 2005IR “Interim Requirements” (2005).
“NIJ 2005IR was released to make sure that the synthetic polymer material Zylon was never used in the manufacturing of NIJ 0101.04 certified ballistic resistant vests. Zylon was a ballistic material used in protective vests constructed with Zylon and became controversial in late 2003 when two police officer’s ballistic resistant vests made of Zylon failed. Some studies subsequently reported that the Zylon vests might degrade rapidly and leave their wearers with significantly less protection than expected. Learn more about Zylon.
NIJ Standard 0101.06 offers more rigid testing process for improving ballistic threat protection
Increased resistance against today’s threats, which means increased security for you as your ballistic resistant vest is designed and manufactured to defeat the latest ballistic threats.
Greater demands have been made for the ballistic testing of ballistic resistant vests and plates, which in turn provides for stronger and higher performing ballistic resistant products.
The durability of the body armor has been improved so that a ballistic resistant vest is stronger for everyday use.
The ballistic resistant vest also needs to be tested under specific conditions, including dropping into a water bath of approx. 21 degrees for 30 minutes. The former NIJ standard 0101.04 only required a water spray test for 6 minutes, which necessarily did not make the body armor waterproof.
In addition, the test inserts also need to be tumbled for 10 days with 72,000 cycles. The temperature needs to be 65 degree Celsius and have a humidity of 80% before testing the ballistic resistance, which has a slightly lower velocity than the above ballistic test.
NIJ 0101.06 Level III and IV Plates are conditioned to:
10 days of uniform thermal exposure at 149 F (65 C) and 80% relative humidity.
1 day of thermal exposure cycling from 5 F (-15 C) to 194 F (90 C) from 0% to 50% relative humidity.
Mechanical durability test (armor drop test).
Areas on which NIJ 0101.06 is different than the previous ballistic standards reviewed in the following
Ballistic Threat Levels
Levels/Threats
NIJ 0101.04 (2005IR)
NIJ 0101.06
NIJ IIA (9mm / 40 S&W)
1120 fps / 1055 fps
1224 fps / 1155 fps
NIJ II (9mm / .357 mag)
1205 fps
1306 fps
NIJ IIIA (.44 mag / .357 sig)
9mm eliminated
Replaced with .357 sig – 1470 fps
For NIJ IIIA the 9 mm FMJ RN has been replaced with a .357 SIG FMJ FN.
Furthermore, you can test against special threats that are not covered by above standards. This also applies to hard armor in NIJ III and NIJ IV.
NIJ level I have been eliminated and no longer exist in the NIJ 0101.06 standard.
Guardian 3s11 Level III Plate tested at the NTS Chesapeake Ballistic Laboratory with four rounds 7.62 x 51 mm – M80 to NIJ 0101.06 Standard
Location of the ballistic impacts has changed
Shot location
NIJ 0101.04 (2005IR)
NIJ 0101.06
Shot to edge (distance from the edge of panel)
3 inches (7.62 cm)
2 inches (5.02 cm)
4, 5 and 6 shot will be placed within a circle of 3.94 inches (10.1 cm)
Spread on insert
3 shots near the edge and 3 shots located close proximity to each other
The above points are essential for your safety. Previously, the shots were spread out on the panel according to NIJ standard 0101.04. For NIJ standard 0101.06, 3rd, 4th and 6th shot must be placed in a circle of 3.94 inches. This ensures the ballistic resistant vest can withstand multiple bullet impacts in the same area, and still offers a BFS below 44 mm.
Additionally, the “shot to edge” has been modified so that the 9mm FMJ RN and .357 SIG FMJ are placed 2 inches from the edge. This means bullets close to the edge are required to be stopped.
For NIJ standard 0101.04 body armor, it has been allowed that a shot hit 2 inches from the edge could push the material aside causing lethal damage. This is not allowed for NIJ 0101.06 compliant ballistic resistant vests.
The size of the ballistic inserts that are to be tested
The ballistic inserts that are to be tested according to NIJ standard 0101.06 need to be in the sizes: C-1 to C5 covering the smallest panel coverage to the largest panel coverage.
Typically, the smallest and largest panel is chosen as it will have impact on what models the factory can manufacture as a compliant/certified ballistic resistant vest.
Number of Panels/Plates & Shots per NIJ Standard
Description
NIJ 0101.04 (2005IR)
NIJ 0101.06
Number of panels to be tested
6 panels (front and back)
28 panels (front and back)
Total number of shots in test
48 shots / 24 for each caliber listed in threat matrix
144 shots / 72 for each caliber listed in NIJ threat matrix
Number of template inserts
1 insert
2 inserts (smallest C1 and largest C5 panels)
V50 threat recorded
9mm
Both Calibers listed in NIJ threat matrix
Backface deformation requirement “BFS”
2 measured above 44mm
3 measured above 44mm and all other below 44mm
Rifle Armor Level III & IV Facts
Description
NIJ 0101.04 (2005IR)
NIJ 0101.06
Hard Armor NIJ Level III
6 ballistic impacts
6 ballistic impacts
Number of shots per panel
4 test plates with 6 shots per plate (12 P-BFS and 6 BL shots)
9 test plates with 6 shots per plate (24 P-BFS and 24 BL shots)
Hard Armor NIJ Level IV
1 ballistic impact
1 ballistic impact
Number of shots per panel
9 test plates with 1 shot per plate (2 P-BFS and 6 BL shots)
7-37 test plates with 1-6 shots per plate (24 P-BFS and 12 BL shots)
NIJ standard 0101.06 focuses more on safety and everyday use than the former NIJ standard 0101.04. It is always recommended you check if the ballistic resistant vest has been certified in compliance to the NIJ 0101.06 standard as this is safer than older NIJ standards.
Finally, the price for the NIJ 0101.06 testing and compliance is significantly greater. NIJ 0101.04 costs that were approximately $2500-$3500 USD, of which the NIJ Standard 0101.06 test alone costs $18,000-$20,000 USD. In addition, 28 complete sets of ballistic inserts must also be provided for the test, which means that the cost of materials, labor, and assembly along with shipping and handling can far exceed the testing cost on its own.
The NIJ 0101.06 compliance testing program is expensive, but it also ensures the operator of a 0101.06 certified ballistic resistant vest of the products quality and likelihood it will not fail.
Want to learn more?
You can read more about the NIJ 0101.06 standard or other helpful topics on this subject can be found below!
Here at HighCom Armor, we take quality very seriously during the life cycle of the product. We know that choosing body armor for your organization is not something to be taken lightly. It may literally be a life or death decision and should be made after considerable research. Therefore, we work tirelessly to maintain our ISO 9001:2015, BA 9000:2016 internal quality procedures. While it is not mandatory for any manufacturer to participate in the NIJ CTP or have an Internal Quality Management System in place; we believe this sets us apart from most manufacturers in the industry. You can rest assured when making a purchase of an NIJ CPL (Compliant Product Listed) model that the manufacturer has undergone a very rigorous test protocol to achieve this distinguished mark.
While organizations have many options in the marketplace, here are three reasons you should choose NIJ 0101.06 compliant models.
1. NIJ 0101.06 COMPLIANT TESTING PROGRAM HAS WORLDWIDE RECOGNITION
The NIJ 0101.06 standard is currently the most rigorous body armor testing standard that has worldwide recognition. NIJ throughout the years has established several testing protocols and standards dating back to the early 1970s. The NIJ 0101.06 standard covers personnel soft body armor as well as hard rifle armor. Per the Homeland Security Act of 2002 ongoing funding allows NIJ to establish and maintain the program to certify and validate with the mark that will be recognized by law enforcement and US Government agencies.
To participate in the NIJ CTP (Compliant Testing Program) applicants must submit through the TIMS (Testing Information Management System). This is where the applicant uploads all the details of the armor models being submitted of how and what is being built. This includes all specifications of the raw materials and whom the suppliers are for those materials along with their technical details. The BACTP (Body Armor Compliance Testing Program) personnel thoroughly examine the applicants build. After testing is completed a shot sample and the spare samples are sent back to the NIJ BACTP for detailed examination, where they are placed in a retained storage indefinitely.
The NIJ is also looking to see if the construction matches the TIMS application technical details of the build precisely to the samples submitted to testing. Once the model has gone through this process the BACTP will issue the applicant a “Notice of Compliance for NIJ 0101.06. It will also then be placed on the CPL website under the applicants business name and address. The applicant must adhere to the agreed FIT Audit schedule that is laid out by BACTP for the life cycle of the model. The FIT is a follow-up testing by a contracted independent auditor chosen by the BACTP. This allows an independently chosen BACTP auditor to randomly pull “in production” samples that will be sent to the independent ballistic test lab for follow up testing. This process helps give the end user peace of mind that they are wearing the most effective and tested armor available.
2. NIJ 0101.06 IS THE MOST RIGOROUS BODY ARMOR TESTING STANDARD
Where the rigorous part of the NIJ 0101.06 test protocol comes in, is the conditioned and environmental portion of the NIJ 0101.06 standard. Both soft and hard armor will be subjected to a 10-day conditioning cycle and a thermal cycle. For the 10 days, soft armor cycle, the armors are tumbled while be subjected to heat and humidity. The hard armor samples will only be subjected to the heat and humidity during this process. The Hard armor sample is also subjected to the impact testing on the “Strike Face” of the armor. After all the conditioning and impact testing of the armors, before ballistic testing, all armors are submerged in water for up to 30 minutes before it is shot. This ensures that all the materials are protected from moisture and that it does not degrade the materials. Soft armor models have 324 rounds tested against it during the test protocol. The hard armor level III has 48 shots and the Level IV has 36 shots. All compliant models should have an official NIJ CTR available for the end user to review along with a notice of compliance letter.
3. NEW NIJ MARK ON LABELS IS TRADEMARKED
The BACTP has issued a trademarked logo to all compliant models for applicants that must be present on any compliant model built on March 1st of 2017 and after. There shall be no more language or wording stating “Complaint” of any kind on a compliant label. A sample of the mark and what a label should contain can be found in NIJ CTP Product Conformity Assessment System – Ballistic Body Armor Scheme. What an end-user should be aware of is when a supplier only shows one report from a lab with a single test or series of tests. The end user should request a copy of the Compliance letter issued by the NIJ along with the full NIJ compliance testing report which consists of 5-12 pages of ballistic data including v0 and v50 ranges as well as the status of conditioning protocols, weights, and thicknesses.
All letters and test results of compliant models are issued from the Department of Justice NIJ and not any lab. In addition, you can find any compliant models listed on the CPL at www.justnet.org. End-users should beware of non-compliant armor that uses the NIJ standard or name and say things like; “according to”, “meets”, “adheres with”, ”tested to”, or any language where it appears to be a product built to the same standard. In an effort to help this effort BACTP has launched the new trademarked NIJ Mark logo so that it will help the end-user know they are purchasing with confident a compliant certified model.
Below are the models that HighCom currently has listed as NIJ 0101.06 on the CPL:
Are you putting your safety at risk because of deceptive practices by other armor manufacturers? Your life depends on body armor that meets high standards and quality assurance, the same level which tens of thousands of officers and operators around the world have come to expect from HighCom Armor. But how do you really know that the armor you are purchasing has met quality and performance standards?
The NIJ CTP is authorized pursuant to the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to “establish and maintain a program to certify, validate, and mark or otherwise recognize law enforcement technology products that conform to standards established and maintained by the office in accordance with the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995.”
The aim of the NIJ CTP is to provide law enforcement with an assurance that their ballistic armor has met or exceeded applicable requirements and performs as expected. To achieve this, the NIJ CTP must independently evaluate products and communicate the results of those evaluations to practitioners.
Up until last year, manufacturers indicated participation in the NIJ CTP by using the following NIJ CTP statement of compliance on their labels: “This model of armor has been determined to comply with NIJ Standard-0101.06 by the NIJ Compliance Testing Program and is listed on the NIJ Compliant Product List.”
Unfortunately, the statement of compliance was susceptible to manipulation, and many companies used carefully crafted statements similar to the NIJ CTP statement of compliance to imply participation in the CTP. This has created false perceptions concerning those products’ NIJ CTP compliance status, making it difficult for buyers to make informed decisions.
To counter misuse of the CTP label, as of October 2016, NIJ’s CTP began to phase out the NIJ Statement of Compliance in favor of a new NIJ Mark of Compliance, a logo of sorts, to indicate that specific models of armor have been determined to meet the current ballistic-resistant body armor standard and NIJ CTP requirements, and have been approved by NIJ.
The new NIJ Mark, which is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, indicates that a specific model of ballistic-resistant body armor has been tested by the NIJ CTP and found to comply with the current version of the NIJ ballistic-resistant body armor standard. By placing the NIJ Mark on the label, a manufacturer communicates that the armor was manufactured in the same manner as the original test items evaluated as compliant by the NIJ CTP, and that armor was constructed under the oversight of the Follow-up Inspection and Testing (FIT) surveillance program that periodically inspects and tests production samples.
Image above shows the Guardian 4s17™ hard armor plate with NIJ 0101.06 label.
All armor models manufactured after March 1, 2017, must carry this mark on the label to be considered NIJ-compliant body armor and listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List. Manufacturers must complete legal agreements and have draft labels approved for production before they can begin placing the Mark on production units. Manufacturers have received specific implementation guidance through a revised Applicant Agreement and NIJ CTP Product Conformity Assessment System documents.
The NIJ Mark cannot be manipulated as the statement of compliance had been, and it is illegal to use it without first meeting the NIJ CTP rigorous compliance standards and adherence to strict legal agreements by the manufacturer.
If you are responsible for evaluating and purchasing body armor for your agency, the new NIJ Mark may be a helpful tool in identifying NIJ compliant body armor. Armor buyers should look for the NIJ Mark as added assurance when researching ballistic-resistant body armor.
HighCom Armor is proud of the fact that we are authorized to implement the new NIJ Mark. With the NIJ Mark, there is no doubt that armor with this label is NIJ compliant or commonly referred to as NIJ certified.
Below are the models that HighCom currently has listed as NIJ 0101.06 compliant on the CPL:
Heraclitus was never more right in these simple words and it is true that change is constant and can be seen around us in so many forms. Change can be a good or bad thing depending on the reason for or the outcome of the change. In our case, the changes underway at HighCom are exciting as we continue to look to the future and build on our successful past of body armor supply.
The biggest change in the start of 2018 is the retirement of our beloved CEO Michael Gordon. Michael is someone I consider a close friend and a brother. His mentorship and incredible dedication over the past seven years has been a blessing in so many ways to me and our entire organization. I learned my work ethic from my parents, but it is the people around us daily who help us continue to strive to be greater at who we are and what we do. Beyond my professional life, I pray I can be half the man, friend, brother, husband, and father that Michael Gordon is.
In 2011, the companies went through some drastic reorganization with the acquisition by BlastGard of HighCom Security and the subsequent partnership of Michael Gordon, Chad Wright, and I. From early 2011 as we embarked on rebuilding the mission and focus of this company and in our efforts to change the culture and strategy by which we would live and promote our business we have built something very special with a single vision of “Saving Lives”.
Today, HighCom is a leader in a number of product capabilities for hard rifle armor, ballistic helmets, and soft armor products, as well as quality initiatives like the ISO 9001:2015 and BA 9000:2016 that have allowed us to promote through our company of intelligent and capable leaders that regardless of their daily assignments, tasks, or projects, we have one mission; “To Save Lives”. I believe today more than ever before with the situation for law enforcement, first responders, and military personnel both domestically and abroad this has never been truer.
Next month we will celebrate 21 years in business. This is truly remarkable considering the challenges in small business operations, finances, and the technological advancements of the world around us. Most small businesses fail within the first five years; Only 1 out of 5 new businesses survive past their first year of operation (USA Today), 80% of entrepreneurs starting a business fail within the first 18 months (Forbes), Fewer than 50% of businesses survive more than 5 years (Entrepreneur.com). Celebrating 21 years in business is truly an accomplishment that our entire team is honored to be among a unique class of companies to achieve and we are grateful to our incredible customers around the world.
As I step into the CEO role for HighCom Armor today, I am determined to continue this vision and focus with the work ethic I share with my brothers in blood and heart. You can expect some great things in 2018 as we look to the future.
Here is a glimpse of what to expect in the coming months and year ahead:
Realignment of the HighCom distribution base and partnerships
Organizational structure and team alignment to improve distribution support for end users
ISO 9001:2015 and BA 9000:2016 program transition
Exciting new R&D activities in rifle armor, ballistics shields, and elsewhere
Overhaul and refresh of marketing materials and collateral support for our partners
Expansion with new models and key partnerships continuing to deliver cutting edge solutions
Expect some new hires coming onboard in expansion of our sales and marketing team
The development and launch of a fully integrated B2B web portal and resource center
Planned improvements in our operations information technology systems to better serve our growing demand and continue our focus of continual improvement.
In closing, I want to thank each and every one of our partners and most importantly the men and women in uniform whether down the street or across the world where over one million pieces of HighCom Personal Protective Equipment is deployed down range. Your life matters to us and the success of our company is solely because of your commitment and dedication to the call of duty and service.
God Bless You and God Bless the United States of America,
First responders today perform a multitude of functions from saving lives when criminals strike to emergency medical crises. The idea of first responders as a unified profession operating in disparate departments became ensconced in our national consciousness after the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. We lost many heroes – police, firefighters, EMTs, and it was driven home that we are all brothers and sisters who risk – and sometimes sacrifice – our lives for the sake of others. Despite the respect and honor due to first responders, there are some who see the tragedies to which we are called as an opportunity for deadly violence. And despite the knowledge and understanding of the risks, emergency personnel perform dutifully. However, it is unlikely that gunfire from a deranged individual was a risk to which a firefighter gave much thought when taking on the job. Yet, in today’s world, it is – sadly and frighteningly – a factor which all first responders from every sector of public safety need to consider. In the rural town of Webster, New York – just outside the city of Rochester, an ex-con set fire to a home and then lay in wait. When first responders arrived, he began shooting them using an arsenal of weapons. Two firefighters and a police officer were injured. Sadly, two other firefighters were killed.
Many disgruntled or deranged people see all first responders as a threat. Every year, we learn of incidents where police officers, firefighters, and EMT personnel are randomly assaulted. Their duties often take them into violent hot zones or even active crime scenes to put out fires or render first aid. Oftentimes a dangerous criminal may still be at large, or even unbeknownst to police, still on scene waiting to do harm or escape capture at any cost. We used to think of protective body armor as being necessary equipment only for police officers. Then, we progressed to heavier, more protective body armor. Today, we are forced to expand our views once again. This time to include all first responders. Body armor should be as much a part of the inventory of necessary equipment for firefighters and EMTs as is medical equipment or a halligan. EMTs, firefighters, and other first responders are all now facing danger in the environments in which they operate. They need improved protection and this means body armor specially designed to fit the functions for which they are called upon to perform as first responders.
At HighCom, we manufacture five plate carriers designed specifically for first responders beyond law enforcement, for people whose function is not combat but who may – during the course of saving lives – come under fire. All five of our first responder plate carriers (Trooper CAP-Rescue, Trooper BPC-Rescue, Trooper TFO-Rescue, Trooper ACAP-Rescue, Trooper APC-Rescue) are made of Cordura nylon and have the option to be fire retardant. They have pockets for plates ranging from 8×10 through 10×12. These plate carriers are produced in a variety of colors (black, blue, red and tan) to match the uniform and visibility needs of every possible first responder scenario. Our first and most important concern is to ensure that those who wear our products go home safe at the end of their shift, every time. We have put every bit of our decades of experience, knowledge, and research into creating the best possible protective body armor for everyone who chooses HighCom products. In doing so, we are fulfilling the mission we set for ourselves 20 years ago: to constantly push the envelope in technology, innovation, creativity, and quality when it comes to designing and manufacturing products which protect and save lives. Fire departments and those in charge of emergency services can be assured that with HighCom products, they will be equipping their personnel with the greatest protection. HighCom regularly exceeds all industry standards. Those who end up wearing our products can do so knowing that they will not have to give a second thought to the protection HighCom Plate Carriers provides against those who would harm America’s heroes.
Our first and most important concern is to ensure that those who wear our products go home safe at the end of their shift, every time. We have put every bit of our decades of experience, knowledge, and research into creating the best possible protective body armor for everyone who chooses HighCom products. In doing so, we are fulfilling the mission we set for ourselves 20 years ago: to constantly push the envelope in technology, innovation, creativity, and quality when it comes to designing and manufacturing products which protect and save lives.