Personal protection equipment for mine-clearing

Company strategy: Rofi was established in 1914 and is today a modern company that designs, manufactures and supplies tents and protection gear for use in emergency situations and wars. The equipment is also used for various types of clearing work, including mine-clearing. The company offers standardised, tailored and integrated solutions. Rofi’s tents range from small tents to large field hospitals with a lot of additional equipment. The Armadillo vest with facemask comprises the new core in personal protection equipment (PPE).

Obtaining information: In 2004, a mine-clearing project was initiated by Design without Borders (DwB), on behalf of Norwegian Peoples’ Aid (NPA). The objective was to develop an improved concept for personal protection equipment, based on a particular desire to reduce injuries and loss of life sustained during mine-clearing. A study carried out by these organisations showed a clear potential for improving existing mine-clearing equipment. Contact was established between DwB and KODE Design, who sent designers to Mozambique to carry out field studies. There they learned how to clear mines, in addition to interviewing teachers, field workers and administrative staff, and observing mine-clearers at work. Their field studies culminated in a set of criteria for both vest and visor. Many ambitious criteria were included – both as regards performance and production costs – and these formed the basis for the ongoing conceptualisation process.

Conceptualisation: Factors driving development of the concept include “increased efficiency through improved design” and “Duty of Care” – we owe it to the mine-clearers to provide the best equipment available so that they can carry out their difficult job. The solution (vest and visor) represented a new design for protective equipment, with a focus on physiological and ergonomic factors. Previously, a one-sided focus on safety resulted in very claustrophobic equipment that led to overheating and dehydration, both of which resulted in fatal accidents. The starting-point for the new equipment was therefore a primary focus on lower weight and good ventilation.

Testing and choice of direction: Further development of the concept involved a series of workshops attended by leading mine-clearers, researchers and designers from all over the world. The workgroups were well planned and targeted genuine product solutions. In order to secure quality, an evaluation group was established consisting of mine-clearing experts such as NFH, Rofi and other manufacturers of mine-clearing equipment. In addition, feedback on the concept was obtained from the European Committee for Standardization (CEN).


Design specification: The design of the Armadillo is inspired by the human body. It was important not to design an aggressive product, particularly since the mask has a strong symbolic value in the targeted markets. Mine-clearing is a very visible part of the work of relief aid. Simple lines and light, clear colours help the Armadillo reflect a modern and effective organisation. The most important advantages of the final design specification are improved freedom of movement, ventilation and a better fit, less weight, stronger material, improved optical qualities and a safer working environment.

Development: In 2005, Rofi, who had long been one of the leading suppliers of safety vests for mine-clearing, took over responsibility for continued development of the product. After the first concept sketch, a design drawing was produced that formed the basis for later prototypes. Rofi has had customers test five different prototypes, in addition to carrying out testing on its own personnel, with a view to assessing movement, ergonomics and functionality. When the prototypes began to take shape, a ballistic test was carried out in the laboratory using a hybrid dummy in accordance with the CEN standard. Among other things, this included exploding 240 grams of TNT with the dummy kneeling over the explosive charge. Construction of the vest is based in Rofi’s existing production apparatus, using as few materials as possible. The mask is the first product in the world made from PURETM material, which is light, inexpensive and environmentally friendly.

Commercialisation: The new Armadillo and facemask are far more comfortable than previous models, in addition to providing a safer working environment. The equipment has improved physiological qualities and allows mine-clearers to concentrate better during work. When it is easier for the user to move, he/she will also be more effective and endure more, both physically and mentally. It is surprisingly positive that the temperature inside the new helmet is a full 17 degrees lower than in the previous version!

Rofi sells and delivers equipment to most key players in the civilian mine-clearing market, and has done so for more than a decade. The main markets are many countries in Africa, the Middle-East and South-East Asia. Rofi has now launched the Armadillo, and notes that the product has been very well received in the market. The company’s aims to market the equipment by means of demonstrations and testing with potential clients. The equipment carries a higher investment cost than other equipment, but pays for itself because customers achieve more effective mine-clearing in a safer manner.

Company: Rofi Industrier AS

Design: Kode design

Award / year: Honours Award for Design Excellence - 2008

Category: Winners