New Gore-Tex jackets and gloves for Traffic officers are on the way, providing better protection, visibility and ventilation.

The Uniform and Accoutrements Committee recently approved the procurement of the second-generation Force jackets that will replace the existing black ones. They feature a highly reflective fluorescent yellow design used by British and European Forces, thicker padding, particularly around the elbows, and more ventilation holes.

The gloves, tailor-made for the Force, feature similar attributes to boost safety and comfort, such as reflective-yellow velcro straps and good flexibility to complement the improved ventilation, grip and padding. They were designed for year-round use and would replace the thick 'gauntlet-style' leather or light woollen gloves officers have been using.

Traffic Branch Headquarters Chief Inspector (Administration and Support) Joe Kong Kai-cho said they were tested by officers in the field and at the Police Driving School, and received overwhelming support.

"These designs comply with European road safety standards and not only make officers highly visible on the road in all types of conditions, but provide better comfort no matter what time of year it is," he said.

"The officers who tried the jacket not only supported it, they urged us to issue them as soon as we could as they found the material to be more soft and comfortable, not to mention the improved visibility.

"Their only drawback is they get dirty easily, so permission was obtained for officers to receive two so one could be worn while the other was being washed. And being better ventilated, the new gloves would come with a soft inner pair to provide winter warmth," he said. "Scanning the market for new and improved safety gear for Traffic officers is a continuous process for us here at TBHQ."

CIP Kong said he aimed for the new gear to be issued by year's end.

Traffic officers with metal Force badges on their helmets should remove them and fit a plastic sticker. CIP Kong said the move was ordered after complaints that the small gap between the visor and the helmet, caused by the badges, was allowing rainwater to seep in under wind pressure. "Although not as eye-catching as the metal badge, the sticker will allow the visor to close completely according to its design, shutting out any water," CIP Kong said.

As the metal badges were strongly glued on, Police Stores suggested methylated spirits or turpentine be used on a cotton swab to dissolve the glue without affecting the helmet's enamel.

Wrapped up tight: CIP Joe Kong with the new Gore-Tex jacket and gloves for Traffic officers

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