Equipment Testing Programs

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NIJ administers two testing programs: (1) standards-based testing and (2) comparative evaluations. These two programs ensure that the equipment used in the field is safe and reliable and meets the needs of the users.

Standards-Based Testing

In standards-based testing, products are tested in accordance with voluntary national performance standards developed through the Office of Law Enforcement Standards, located at the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Conducted at NIJ-certified independent testing laboratories, this testing confirms the equipment's compliance with NIJ standards. Many public safety agencies require compliance with NIJ standards before the equipment is purchased.

Testing of this type is being performed on:

• Ballistic-resistant body armor
• Stab-resistant body armor
• Metal handcuffs
• Semiautomatic pistols
• Walk-through metal detectors

Comparative Evaluations

Comparative evaluation—field-testing and publishing test data—allows users to select the product that best suits their needs and requirements.

Testing of this type is now being performed on:

• Patrol vehicles
• Patrol vehicle tires
• Replacement brake pads
• Cut-, puncture-, and pathogen-resistant protective gloves