Information on purchasing PPE equipment
Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.24.038030
I note you seek access to the following information:
- Who or what department decides the purchasing and selection process of equipment/PPE for the police services across the UK.
- Are the service currently looking for more protection from bladed weapons given the current climate, e.g the female officer who's arm was cut by a samurai sword. Would the service be interested in a product that protects the arms
Decision
I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full. Please find below information pursuant to your request above.
Q1 - Who or what department decides the purchasing and selection process of equipment/PPE for the police services across the UK.
The Home Office is responsible for setting the standards for police protective equipment (PPE) in the UK. Individual forces align any prospective procurements s to the Home Office standards. Further information about the PPE testing process can be found on the Home Office Website. I have provided a link to this information below.
Home Office Website - Police Protective Equipment
I have also provided a link to the Home Office website from which a Freedom of Information Act request to the Home Office can be made.
Home Office Website - Freedom of Information Act Request
Q2 - Are the service currently looking for more protection from bladed weapons given the current climate, e.g the female officer who's arm was cut by a samurai sword. Would the service be interested in a product that protects the arms.
The MPS are not currently looking at introducing any specific new products which provide additional protection from bladed weapons, although some of our kit does current offer this such as our General Purpose Body Armour covers. We are always open to look at new innovations in the market but they have to be able to be worn in conjunction with existing uniform items and enable an officer to carry out their duties without being impeded.