Traffic police told to remove 'stiflingly hot' motorcycle uniforms

Traffic officers have been told to take their jackets off when not riding their motorcycles and to drink more water after complaints that new jackets - introduced two months ago to provide better protection - are stiflingly hot. The police force was also looking for more suitable jacket material, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee Siu-kwong said yesterday.

Mr Lee was responding to a question from lawmaker Lau Kong-wah, who also queried the cost and suitability of uniforms issued to police and other disciplined services.

He said the jackets, issued last month in an effort to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, were made of elastic nylon/cotton with laminated cloth and reflective safety fabric.

'Some traffic officers have pointed out that the ... jacket makes the wearer feel hot,' Mr Lee said.

He said the department would seek to strike a balance between comfort, safety and the force's image, and would listen to officers' opinions.

'Policemen can take off their jackets when they are not riding their motorcycles,' said Mr Lee. 'But they must put on their jackets when they are on their motorcycles, for protection.'

Earlier media reports said officers experienced skin-sensitivity problems and feared sunstroke.