June 4, 2024
Police Department
DATE: June 4, 2024
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Bisa French, Chief of Police
Subject:
Air Purifying Respirators for Richmond Police
Department Special Weapons and Tactics Team
Members
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The estimated expenditure of $38,338.31 is included within the proposed Police Department budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 – account string 01194021-400603.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
n/a
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The City of Richmond Police Department (RPD) Special
Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team is requesting
approval to purchase air purifying respirators to work and communicate in areas contaminated with chemical
agents effectively.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPROVE the purchase of air purifying respirators from
LC Action Police Supply for an amount not to exceed
$38,338.31 – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-
621-1802).
DISCUSSION:
The City of Richmond’s Police Department (RPD) Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team requests approval to purchase air-purifying respirators to ensure effective operation and communication in areas contaminated with chemical agents.
AGENDA
REPORT
June 4, 2024
Members of the RPD SWAT Team must maintain the ability to work and communicate seamlessly while operating in environments tainted with chemical agents.
Background:
The RPD SWAT Team has relied on air-purifying respirators for over two decades.
These systems play a pivotal role in shielding SWAT Team members from exposure to various hazardous substances, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents. Modern air-purifying systems boast features that directly integrate with radio communications and incorporate voice amplifiers, facilitating communication while wearing the respirator.
Current Situation:
The air purifying systems currently used by the RPD SWAT Team have surpassed their service life and are experiencing significant deterioration. The air purifying masks, which have been utilized for over 13 years, exhibit numerous issues. Many voice amplifiers on these masks have ceased functioning, impairing communication channels. Moreover, several masks have failed to establish a proper seal during recent training exercises, leading to the inadvertent exposure of SWAT Team members to chemical agents. The current state of this equipment presents a critical safety concern, jeopardizing the well- being of officers and the community.
Recommendation:
Considering the circumstances, RPD staff members recommend approving this purchase. It is imperative to equip members of the SWAT Team with reliable air purifying systems to carry out their duties safely and effectively, particularly during high- risk critical incidents. By investing in updated equipment, the City can ensure its officers' continued protection and public safety.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Quote Package
Attachment 2 – Quote Matrix