Health Department purchases new vests for Carmel Police Department

Load-bearing vests replace traditional belts to help prevent injuries

Officers with the Carmel Police Department now have a new way to carry the tools of their trade. That’s because the Hamilton County Health Department has purchased new load-bearing vests that shift the weight of essential police equipment from officers’ hips to their torsos.

“This was an easy decision from a public health perspective,” says Christian Walker, Public Health Preparedness Coordinator for the Hamilton County Health Department. “Law enforcement officers carry more equipment than ever. These vests allow for more natural weight distribution across the shoulders and torso significantly reducing the risk of back, hip, and joint strain caused by traditional duty belts.”

The vests are ergonomically designed to distribute weight more evenly, allowing for better mobility, comfort, and fatigue resistance. They also integrate body armor which contributes to greater comfort and injury prevention.

“Physical health and wellness amongst our officers is an aspect we are always seeking to improve,” Carmel Police Chief Drake Sterling said. “These vests reduce strain and boost mobility – protecting officers not just from threats, but from long-term injury as well. We are incredibly thankful to the Hamilton County Health Department for providing us with the funds to take care of our men and women in uniform.”

In total, the Health Department funded the purchase of 155 vests at a total cost of $39,700, using grant funding including Health First Indiana dollars. By comparison, the National Council on Compensation Insurance estimates the average cost for a workers’ compensation claim is $44,179.