In this issue, we will look at the new round shield, a modern and durable shield which is gradually replacing the existing some 3,000 rattan shields used in the Force.

In trying to find a shield that can best suit the needs of officers, PTU HQ officers had to explore different designs by themselves, as the products available in the market did not meet all the stringent Force requirements.

The hard work of PTU officers resulted in the new round shield made of polycarbonate, a light, durable and transparent material. The shield provides officers with strong and sufficient protection. Officers can also see through the transparent shield to observe the situations in front of them. Furthermore, polycarbonate is not only fire resistant but also resistant to corrosive liquid. The shield also has a convex edge which better protects officers against thrown liquid.

The first phase of the shield replacement was conducted in October 2000 with 1,400 rattan shields of PTU Companies, Emergency Units and all District Internal Security Companies being replaced.

In the second phase of the procurement exercise, an evaluation test of the round shields produced by eight different manufacturers was conducted at PTU HQ last November. The evaluation test included compliance to specifications, degree of comfort, durability and the overall performance. Representatives from PTU HQ and all EUs unanimously chose a round shield of improved design for the second phase of replacement.

It is expected that the replacement of the rattan shields of the remaining Force units with 2,100 round shields will begin in the middle of this year.