Most of the materials used to make body armor do not degrade which negates putting them into a landfill. In addition, they are cut resistant and flame resistant. Therefore, when a law enforcement agency needs a different type of armor, due to the increasing threat level, a dilemma occurs on what to do with the old armor. There are several options available to law enforcement agencies in the disposal of old body armor that include: (1) some manufacturers have available equipment to chop the armor into small pieces and recycle them into other materials; (2) use the old armor to provide extra protection inside the door panels of cruisers or behind desks and partitions in work areas; and (3) if the armor is still serviceable, agencies can use the armor for their training academies. Lastly, the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC)-National is exploring the taking of donations of used body armor for research.
You Just Can't Throw it Away
NCJ Number
211856
Date Published
2001
Length
1 page
Annotation
This article discusses viable options available to law enforcement agencies for the disposal of old body armor.
Abstract
Date Published: January 1, 2001