Police will be armed with spit and bite guards in a bid to limit the number of assaults on officers and staff.

The spit and bite guards (SBG) will be issued to officers in Dorset next month as a protective measure.

Dorset Police will be one of 24 forces who have deployed SBGs in operational and detention settings.

Chief Superintendent Colin Searle said: “The introduction of this kit is vital to support officer and staff safety. Biting and spitting is a vile act and the new SBGs will provide additional protection to help keep everyone safe.”

These types of assaults can have distressing implications for officers and staff.

The guard, a mesh fabric hood, is placed over a person's head to help minimise the risks of communicable diseases and injuries associated with spitting and biting.

Chief Supt Searle continued: "Dorset Police need to ensure the safeguarding of those in our care who need to be fitted with an SBG, with particular consideration those who are vulnerable or with mental health needs. This included making sure any option had been robustly medically tested to ensure the safety of those in our care who may be in ill health."

The government is supporting the Assaults on Emergency Workers Bill, which will double the maximum penalty available for assaults on emergency workers, including spitting.

It is supported by forces across the south west with the recent launch of the #unacceptable campaign, which sees Dorset Police working with partners to spread the important message in the community.

Martyn Underhill. Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, said in his blog about the introduction of SBGs: "The principle that police officers and staff should not be spat at or bitten is beyond dispute; and I respect and accept the decision of the Chief Constable of Dorset, James Vaughan to introduce spit guards across the force.

"I have, in the past voiced genuine concerns over the use of spit guards. I am however, reassured by the Chief Constable that there will be full and comprehensive training for all officers under the College of Policing National Personal Safety manual with regard to the use of the guards and that the guidance in that manual will be strictly adhered to."