Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Case Study: C50 & VPU
Opportunity
The Douglas County Sheriff's Office sought a respiratory protection solution for its SWAT team that could deliver reliable protection, comfort during extended use, and clear communication capabilities during high-stakes operations.
Through Avon Protection’s Trial & Evaluation (T&E) Program, the team evaluated the Avon Protection C50 respirator and Voice Projection Unit (VPU) to determine how the system performs in real-world operational scenarios.
T&E Experience
Avon Protection's T&E Program* allows operators to evaluate equipment in demanding environments before making purchase decisions. The program helps organizations identify the right respiratory protection solution based on their unique operational requirements and use cases.
Following the trial period, participants provide feedback on performance, fit, comfort, and functionality to help ensure the selected solution meets mission requirements.
The Results
Clear Communication & Effective Voice Projection
Communication is a common challenge for tactical operators wearing respiratory protection. During the trial, personnel reported that the C50 mask did not interfere with verbal communication or radio use and addressed the challenge which they often experience.
The team noted that clear, audible communication has historically been a challenge when operating in protective masks, making the VPU a highly anticipated capability. Evaluators expressed particular interest in using the VPU during SWAT operations, where officers may need to communicate directly with suspects while negotiators maintain clear dialogue throughout a situation.
As one evaluator noted, communication challenges while wearing protective masks have been "a problem forever," and the team was particularly excited about the introduction of the VPU.
During testing, the VPU delivered strong performance in operational conditions, enabling clear communication without compromising protection.
Exceptional Comfort and Breathability
Comfort emerged as another key differentiator during the evaluation. Operators reported no noticeable breathing resistance or fatigue, even during extended wear periods. The ease of breathing through the C50 was consistently highlighted as a key advantage, helping reduce user burden during tactical operations and prolonged deployments.
Reliable Fit and Seal
Maintaining a dependable seal during movement and extended use is critical for both user confidence and protection. The team found the mask remained comfortable and secure throughout testing, with use periods ranging from approximately 30 minutes to two hours.
Competitive Advantage
During the evaluation, the C50 was compared against competing mask solutions.
Feedback indicated that the Avon Protection C50 stood out because of its features, comfort, and communication capabilities. Evaluators specifically noted that the system offered functionality not available in competing solutions, particularly when paired with the VPU.
Resources & Support for Operational Use
In addition to evaluating product performance, the team assessed the resources provided to support full operational use. The agency reported that the available datasheets, instructions, and supporting materials provided the information needed to understand and operate the equipment effectively.
Sizing guidance was also noted as beneficial, enabling team members to confidently size and fit equipment across the department. This premium experience offered by Avon Protection helped ensure personnel were prepared for operational use throughout the evaluation process.
Following the T&E, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office concluded that the Avon Protection C50 and VPU effectively address communication challenges often associated with respiratory protection. The agency highlighted the system's comfort, ease of breathing, secure fit, and enhanced communication capabilities, reinforcing confidence in its suitability for law enforcement operations.
Learn more about AVONPLUS and inquire about hands-on testing and evaluation to support your organization's readiness and protection goals today.
*Avon Protection’s T&E Program is only available to North America users.