Police PPE Advice Flip-Flops Spark Safety Fears
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has sparked outrage by changing its Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) guidance for police officers four times in just one week. The conflicting advice, based on input from Public Health England (PHE) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), has left forces across the country following wildly different rules.
This mix-up has turned officer safety into a postcode lottery, with protection depending on which police force you’re in. It’s a scandal that could cost lives.
Police Federation Slams ‘Disgraceful’ Mixed Messages
John Apter, National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, did not hold back. He said:
“This constantly changing advice, a lack of guidance and mixed messages from PHE, the NPCC and HSE is nothing short of a disgrace; it’s dangerous and completely unacceptable. This is not a training exercise; this is reality and is a matter of life or death.
Apter demands clear, consistent advice and the best PPE available to keep officers and the public safe.
Federation Calls for Clear Rules on Masks and Social Distancing
In the absence of any coherent explanation for the constant U-turns, the Police Federation’s advice is crystal clear:
- If officers cannot maintain two metres distance from colleagues or members of the public, they must wear a face mask — specifically a Fluid Resistant Surgical Mask (IIR).
- Officers should constantly assess risks and choose PPE that fits the situation.
Apter warns this approach is vital to protect the resilience of police forces, the public, and the NHS during the pandemic.
“This is an unprecedented situation and the pressure on all emergency workers is like never before; but as the staff association for police officers, looking after their safety, and in turn the safety of the public, is non-negotiable,” he said.
