Needs and Procedures for a National Anthropometry Study of Law Enforcement Officers

Objectives This research aims to determine the need and extent for a national anthropometry survey of law enforcement officers (LEOs) via an exploratory investigation of anthropometric changes of LEOs in four decades and comparisons of the LEO data with three existing military and civilian anthropometry sources. Background The best available anthropometric dataset of LEOs is 45 years old and has largely become outdated due to demographic changes. Assessing the extent of anthropometric changes of LEOs through a sample and evaluating the differences of the sample against existing anthropometric datasets is a step toward ascertaining the necessity for a national LEO anthropometry study. Method Thirty-two body dimensions of 67 regional male LEOs and seven female LEOs were measured, and the data of males were compared with the best available LEO anthropometry data from 1975 and three recent non-LEO anthropometry databases. Results Anthropometric dimensions were significantly different between this LEO study and existing data sources, especially in chest circumference and body weight. Most of the significant differences are important differences for LEO protective gear and vehicle design. Conclusion The study confirmed that the existing 45-year-old LEO dataset and recent Army and civilian datasets would not be suitable for armor and equipment design for the current LEO population. Application The study results are useful in supporting the decision of investing in a national LEO anthropometry survey and for equipment manufacturers to recognize the distinctiveness of LEO anthropometry from other populations and the magnitude of anthropometry changes of LEOs over the past 45 years.