Understanding "NIJ Compliant" vs. "NIJ Certified" in Body Armor Standards
When discussing body armor standards, it’s crucial to use accurate terminology to convey the correct information. A common point of confusion is the difference between "NIJ Compliant" and "NIJ Certified." Let’s break down why "NIJ Compliant" is the appropriate term and what it signifies.
What is NIJ?
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the standards for body armor performance in the United States. These standards are widely recognized and adopted to ensure the effectiveness and reliability of protective equipment used by law enforcement and sometimes military personnel.
NIJ Certified vs. NIJ Compliance
"NIJ Certified"
- The term "certified" implies that the NIJ itself conducts the testing and certification process directly, similar to how an ISO certification works. Which they don't.
- This would mean the NIJ has tested and verified the product in their labs. Which they don't.
- NIJ does not use the word "certified" in their official documentations when addressing ballistic testing standards.
"NIJ Compliant"
- In reality, the NIJ sets the standards and oversees the compliance process, but it does not directly test each piece of equipment.
- Instead, independent laboratories accredited by the NIJ perform the testing.
- Manufacturers submit their products to these labs, and upon passing the rigorous tests, the products are deemed "NIJ Compliant."
- This compliance is verified by the Compliance Testing Program (CTP) managed by the NIJ.
Why "NIJ Compliant" is the Correct Term
1. Accuracy: The NIJ does not conduct the testing directly. Using "certified" would be misleading, suggesting a level of direct involvement that does not exist. The list in which all approved products that have been tested for compliance is called the "CPL" or Compliant Product List.
2. Process: Compliance indicates that a product has met the stringent standards set by the NIJ through a vetted, third-party testing process.
3. Regulation: The NIJ oversees the process, ensuring that the accredited labs maintain high testing standards and that the compliance designations are trustworthy.
Why do other companies use "certified"?
We can only speculate on each company's reasons for using this incorrect verbiage. In our experience, most branded armor is done so by marketing companies and individuals who have zero to very little knowledge about armor manufacturing. Normally, their expertise is in placing an order to the manufacturer overseas.
A common misconception in the industry is that "compliant" is a less official term compared to "certified." Some companies may use "compliant" thinking it downplays the official nature of their product when compared to "certified." However, in the context of body armor and NIJ standards, "compliant" is the accurate and official term for products that meet NIJ standards and are listed on the Compliant Products List (CPL). Misusing "compliant" either deliberately or unknowingly can lead to confusion and diminish trust in the term.
Another reason may be that the company doesn't see the value in spending the time or effort to educate its customer base. It may make more sense to them to use words and phrases the customers are already familiar with.
A note from us
We are dedicated to those that would turn to us as subject matter experts and trust us with their lives by purchasing our top engineered products. Educating clients about the distinction between "NIJ Compliant" and "NIJ Certified" helps build trust. It is our duty to provide transparent and accurate information to everyone.
TAC 11 is dedicated to reducing the number of tactical gear and armor wearer's mentality of "I only wear NIJ Certified level IV" and turn them into rational thinkers.
By understanding that "NIJ Compliant" signifies adherence to standards verified through testing, customers can feel confident in the reliability and effectiveness of the protective gear they are choosing as well as trusting TAC 11 as a leader in the industry that doesn't sacrifice truth and safety for sales.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or for more detailed information on NIJ standards and compliance processes. Stay safe and protected!