Exploring police ergonomics: Effects of personal protective equipment, holster position and perceived discomfort on different gait intensities

Objectives: This study investigated the impact of personal protective equipment (PPE) and holster positions on gait kinematics and discomfort in Brazilian police officers.

Methods: A crossover study included 20 active-duty police officers assessed two-dimensional kinematic and self-reported data. Three PPE use conditions (control, PPE + thigh holster, PPE + hip holster) were investigated during walking and sprint acceleration.

Results: PPE use increased stride length and gait speed in the weapon side compared to the free side during walking and reduced the stride length of the free side during sprint acceleration. PPE also increased back and knee discomfort during walking, with sprint acceleration proving more comfortable for the knee when using a thigh holster compared to a hip holster.

Conclusion: PPE significantly affects gait mechanics and discomfort, especially during sprinting. Holster placement is critical to officer mobility and comfort, emphasizing the need for ergonomic improvements in PPE design.