Stab-Resistant Vest Policy
Scope
This policy applies only to Overwatch Security products that incorporate stab-resistant protective materials, including models utilising high-performance textile layers, metallic protective systems, or laminate stab-resistant inserts.
Standard load-bearing vests that do not contain stab-resistant materials are not subject to the eligibility requirements outlined in this policy and may be purchased without verification.
Mentions of 'Overwatch' in this policy will refer to Overwatch Security Australia Pty Ltd.
Intended Use
Overwatch stab-resistant vests are designed for use by licensed security personnel, authorised organisations, and legitimate professional users operating in environments where resistance against stabbing, puncture, or spike-type hazards may be required.
These products are intended to assist in reducing the risk of injury during lawful professional duties. They are not intended for unlawful use, misuse, or use outside their intended occupational context.
Overwatch reserves the right to refuse or cancel any order where the intended use cannot be reasonably verified or is deemed inappropriate.
Protection Capabilities and Limitations
Overwatch stab-resistant vests are constructed using specialised protective materials designed to provide resistance against stabbing and puncture hazards, including spike-type instruments applied with concentrated force, while maintaining mobility and comfort.
However, it is important to understand the capabilities and limitations of stab-resistant equipment:
- These vests are designed to assist in reducing penetration from pointed or spike-type instruments, including knives applied with concentrated force
- These vests are also designed to assist in reducing the risk of injury from cutting and slashing hazards
- These vests are NOT ballistic or bullet-resistant and do NOT offer resistance against firearms
- These vests do NOT eliminate all risk of injury in all circumstances
- Effectiveness may vary depending on the type of instrument, force applied, point of contact, angle of impact, and the protective rating of the specific model
Users should refer to the specific protection rating and test standard applicable to their model when assessing suitability for a given operational environment.
Protection Standards and Ratings
Where specified, Overwatch stab-resistant products may be independently tested to recognised stab-resistance standards, including NIJ Standard-0115.00 classifications or equivalent recognised testing frameworks.
Protection ratings apply only to the certified configuration of the product and only within the tested threat parameters and energy levels defined by the applicable standard. Performance outside of these parameters cannot be assured.
Customers are responsible for ensuring the selected protection level is appropriate for their operational requirements and risk environment. Where specific threat levels are a concern, customers should consult with a qualified security equipment adviser prior to purchase.
Product listings will indicate the applicable protection standard and rating where independently verified testing has been conducted. Overwatch does not make claims beyond those supported by independent test data.
Eligibility Requirements
Due to the protective nature of stab-resistant models, Overwatch restricts supply of these specific products to legitimate professional users only.
Customers purchasing stab-resistant vests must provide verification of intended professional use. This may include:
- A valid security licence, or
- Proof of employment with a licensed security provider, or
- A registered business name and ABN associated with security or related services, or
- Written confirmation outlining legitimate professional use
Orders containing stab-resistant vests will not be dispatched until eligibility has been verified.
These requirements apply only to stab-resistant protective models and do not apply to standard load-bearing vests without protective materials.
Eligible Industries
Overwatch stab-resistant vests are supplied to legitimate professional users operating in occupational environments where enhanced protective equipment may be required.
Approved users may include, but are not limited to:
- Licensed security personnel
- Contracted security companies
- Corporate security departments
- Shopping centre and retail security personnel
- Hospital and healthcare security staff
- Prison and correctional facility personnel
- University and campus security personnel
- Government and local council authorised personnel
- Event and venue security providers
- Licensed investigators and authorised contractors
- Registered businesses with a legitimate occupational requirement
Limitation of Liability
By purchasing and using Overwatch stab-resistant vests, the customer acknowledges and accepts the intended use, capabilities, and limitations of the product.
Overwatch stab-resistant vests are designed to assist in reducing the risk of injury, but cannot eliminate all risk. Overwatch shall not be held liable for injury, loss, or damages resulting from misuse, improper use, modification, or use beyond the intended capabilities or protective rating of the product.
Right to Refuse or Cancel Orders
Overwatch reserves the right to:
- Request verification of intended professional use
- Refuse or cancel any order at its discretion
- Decline supply where eligibility requirements are not met
- Refuse supply where misuse or unlawful use is suspected
These measures are in place to support the responsible distribution of protective equipment.
Safe Use, Handling, and Care
Proper use, handling, and maintenance of stab-resistant vests are essential to preserve their intended protective function and service life.
Correct Fit and Adjustment
The vest should be appropriately sized and adjusted to ensure stable positioning on the torso. Protective areas must align with the regions they are intended to cover. A vest that is too loose, improperly adjusted, or incorrectly positioned may provide reduced protection.
Proper Wearing and Configuration
All closures, fasteners, and adjustment points must be securely fastened when the vest is worn. Protective layers or panels must remain properly seated within the carrier and should not be removed, repositioned incorrectly, or altered outside of normal manufacturer guidance.
Pre-Use Inspection
Users should visually inspect the vest before each use to ensure it remains in suitable condition. This includes checking for visible damage such as tears, deformation, compromised stitching, or structural changes to protective components. Any vest showing signs of damage or degradation should be removed from service immediately.
Handling of Protective Materials
Protective elements must not be bent excessively, punctured, modified, or tampered with. Alteration or damage to protective components may reduce or eliminate their effectiveness.
Care and Cleaning
The vest carrier may be cleaned in accordance with the provided care instructions. Protective materials should be kept dry and should not be exposed to excessive moisture, corrosive substances, or improper cleaning methods that may compromise material integrity.
Storage and Environmental Exposure
When not in use, the vest should be stored in a clean, dry environment away from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, excessive heat, humidity, or chemically aggressive environments. Environmental exposure over time may affect material performance and protective integrity.
Operational Responsibility
Stab-resistant vests are designed to supplement professional training, situational awareness, and risk management practices. They are not a substitute for proper operational procedures, safety protocols, or professional judgment.
Removal from Service
Any vest that has sustained a stab, penetration, or significant impact — even where no visible breach is apparent — should be removed from service and assessed before further use. Any vest showing structural compromise or material degradation should be immediately removed from operational use and replaced. Continued use of a damaged or compromised vest may significantly reduce protective performance.
Contact
For questions regarding stab-resistant vest eligibility, intended use, product classification, or protection ratings, please contact us via the contact details listed on our website.
To download a copy of this policy, please click here.