Staying Informed About New Body Armor Standards

At SafeGuard Clothing, we understand the importance of staying informed about the latest developments in personal protection equipment. Today, we'd like to discuss the upcoming revisions to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Ballistic-Resistant Body Armor Standard.

What's changing?

The new standard, NIJ Standard-0101.07, addresses various aspects of body armour performance and testing, aiming to provide enhanced protection for individuals in potentially dangerous situations. Here are some key changes:

• Improved testing for female body armour: The new standard introduces a more robust test protocol for shaped or female body armour. This includes testing on build-up in the bust area and using a different shot pattern to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Importantly, female armour will be tested against the same ammunition used for planar (not shaped) armour.
• Updated threat scenarios: The standard acknowledges the evolving nature of threats faced by law enforcement officers and civilians. Consequently, the ammunition used in testing has been updated to reflect these current threats. This ensures that body armour is tested against the most relevant threats encountered in real-world situations.
• Collaboration with ASTM: The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is collaborating with ASTM International (ASTM), a recognised standards development organization, to develop standards for universal components used in body armour testing. This collaboration aims to achieve greater consistency and compatibility across different testing laboratories.
• New naming convention: The familiar Type/Level IIA, II, IIIA, III, and IV naming convention is being retired. Instead, the new standard adopts a simpler format: HG (Handgun) and RF (Rifle) followed by a level number (e.g., NIJ HG1.07). Additionally, the standard introduces a reduction in soft armour levels and an additional hard armour protection level based on identified needs.

What does this mean for you?

These changes signify advancements in body armour development and testing, ultimately leading to more reliable and effective protection. When purchasing body armour, it's crucial to ensure it meets the latest NIJ standards (NIJ Standard-0101.07) for optimal protection. At SafeGuard Clothing, we stay updated on the latest standards and offer a wide range of NIJ-compliant body armour options. We encourage you to consult with our knowledgeable staff to find the right level of protection for your specific needs.

Remember, choosing the right body armour is an important decision. At SafeGuard Clothing, we are committed to providing you with the information and resources you need to make informed choices for your personal safety.