Department of Homeland Security Guidance for Using Standards When Selecting and Purchasing Responder Equipment

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) has released a report for emergency response agencies: “Guidance for Using Standards When Selecting and Purchasing Responder Equipment PDF.”

What is covered in the report

This report provides guidance related to the use of standards when selecting and purchasing protective and operational equipment for public safety organizations, including law enforcement agencies, fire departments and emergency medical services agencies. The document explains what standards are, why they are relevant and how to take advantage of their use in procuring equipment.

The report’s appendix provides an overview of available federal grant programs that offer funding for responder equipment that conforms to standards, including a table showing several types of responder equipment, applicable standards, and associated verification or certification programs.

Why this report is important

Although there are many standards for responder equipment, there is not a requirement for all products to meet those standards before being offered for sale. Therefore, standards are relevant when purchasing protective or operational equipment that a responder will use in the field.

Report authorship

This report was prepared by DHS S&T’s National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL), in collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology, as part of NUSTL’s System Assessment and Validation for Emergency Responders program.