Issue link: https://let.epubxp.com/i/320907
11 www.officer.com June 2014 Law Enforcement Technology EQUIPPING THE OFFICER caused by blast overpressure, heat, frag- mentation and impact. Full-body immersion The suit has changed substantially since its inception in the late 1980s; in particular there have been marked improvements in weight, flexibility and protection. Today's gear looks to protect the five senses while offering minimal physical discomfort. For example, Med-Eng's EOD 9 bomb suit and associated equipment incorporates helmet cam/camcorder, breathing apparatus, visor, chemical protective under garment, body cooling system, and a thigh mountable Hook and Line Tactical Tool Kit. Cowan says this type of suit is ideal if one is dealing with an actual explosive device. For a scenario that primarily involves a high risk search for an explosive device, a lighter weight suit (Med-Eng offers the TAC 6) is ideal. Helmet included, the EOD 9 weighs approxi- mately 70 pounds while the TAC 6 with protective EOD chest plate and helmet weighs approximately 45 pounds. An integrated air circulation system brings in outside ambient air through two par- ticulate filters and circulates it through- out the helmet. All this heft can be disorienting to first-timers. "Technicians may initially feel the weight of the suit, but this is generally overcome due to ergonomic design, proper training and good physi- cal health," says Cowan. In most suits the helmet visor is designed so it does not interfere with nor- mal field of view or peripheral vision, and built-in environmental awareness system and speakers in the ear pads of the helmet allow wearers to hear normal sounds, though in the event of a high decibel sound/blast event, audio cuts off. Sense of smell is not affected because the helmet does not seal around the neck. Equipment aside, it's always impor- tant to "respect the blast." "The first time I experienced an explosive detonation and felt the blast wave I knew that's what I wanted to do," says Cowan. "I think I can confidently say that every bomb tech would say the same thing. A detonation is an amazing con- glomerate of physics, but also has to be treated with the highest respect." ■ Circle 90 on Reader Service Card RUAG SWISS P ® is a registered trademark of RUAG Ammotec AG, a RUAG Group Company The Sniper's Choice. Precision, Power, Premium. Reliability is the key. From trigger to terminal effect, this is the sniperÕs choice for outstanding accuracy. Made in Switzerland. RUAG Ammotec AG sales.ammotec@ruag.com RUAG SWISS P ® is a registered trademark of RUAG Ammotec AG, a RUAG Group Company Visit our website COMPANY READER SERVICE NO. Med-Eng, a brand of Safariland 91 For more information on this company, circle the corresponding number on the Reader Service Card M O R E I N F O R M A T I O N LET_08-11_BombSuit0614.indd 11 5/20/14 1:41 PM