Is British Police Uniform Adequate for the Task?

Abstract

Each of 43 Police Forces in Britain test and supply their own uniform ensembles. Whilst sharing similarities, the ensembles differ. A national Uniform Project Group was established to evaluate current uniform so as to develop future provision of a uniform ‘menu’. An ergonomics contribution is presented. A range of data sources were tapped, the main one being uniformed patrol officers (UPOs) discussion groups. Seven Forces and 55 UPOs contributed. UPOs undertake a wide range of tasks in many different circumstances. Uniform must provide protection, resist injury, accommodate body armour, offer unfettered access to safety equipment (communications, self-defence) and adapt to the elements. It must provide carriage facilities for up to 21 items. Review of these is needed. Other issues included: recognisability, smartness, public perceptions and ease of care (issues raised by 51, 34, 44 & 27 participants respectively). Design specifications resulted: a layered system giving freedom of movement, minimised ‘grab’ points, allowance for body armour and utility belt providing unfettered equipment access and further carriage facilities. Quality/cost issues were addressed. Novel uniform ensembles were designed and are being evaluated. In addition to presenting summarised data and identifying tasks, responsibilities and activities of UPOs, the paper identifies consequent system and job design issues.