Cause for concern? PoliceOne addresses current media coverage regarding Zylon ballistic vests
PoliceOne Special Report
Nearly two years ago, PoliceOne began sharing reports of troubling safety issues related to the use of Zylon in ballistic vests. Zylon has since become a critical safety issue, creating significant concern among officers. Recognizing that no single resource existed for information on this highly complex issue, PoliceOne created a section dedicated to Zylon and its use in ballistic vests (www.policeone.com/zylon). Throughout the span of PoliceOne’s coverage, several studies released called into question the durability of Zylon.
This week, these issues are again in the news. Second Chance issued a press release recommending that officers replace any Second Chance vest containing Zylon, including their Tri-Flex, Ultima and Ultima with Performance Pac models. The release could be perceived to be implying that officers should replace any vest containing Zylon regardless of the manufacturer. The national media, including CNN and the Associated Press, have picked up the release, creating concern and potential confusion.
In light of these recent reports, we would like address the following issues. If you are an officer wearing a vest containing Zylon, it is important that you be aware of the following points:
- PoliceOne has not been notified or received any new findings related to Zylon durability and performance within the last six months.
- Since the 2003 report of the death of Oceanside PD Officer Tony Zeppetella, who was wearing a Second Chance vest constructed primarily of Zylon and died after being shot in the torso, we have received no reports of field failures.
- The performance of Zylon is very complex issue that has not yet been fully resolved. The National Institute of Justice, after being asked to review the issue by the U.S. Department of Justice, has not come back with a definitive conclusion on the performance of Zylon in ballistic vests.
PoliceOne strongly recommends that all officers concerned about this issue fully review all of the materials listed in our Zylon section, which many at the NIJ have identified as the most complete source for information on this issue. If you have any specific questions about your vest, it is important that you contact the manufacturer directly.
It is crucial that you remember Survival Rule #1: Wear your vest! If you plan to replace your current vest, continue to wear the one you have until your replacement arrives. No safety concern can justify wearing no vest at all.
PoliceOne Zylon Section:
http://www.policeone.com/zylon
Related Media Report:
Warning: Body armor may be defective
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