More than 13,000 D-Ring Thigh Holsters (DRTH) and 3500 AV20 Craig International tactical vests will be issued to frontline officers to address operational safety issues.

Orana LAC Inspector Andrew Hurst said the commands' weapons trainers would be progressively training the rest of the staff in the command who are entitled to wear the thigh holsters.

He said the the new equipment had been designed to reduce and prevent injury as part of the NSW Police Force's commitment to officer safety.

Training began last week and was expected to take up to three months.

Inspector Hurst said the thigh holster was not compulsory but was available as an alternative to the existing holster which was known to cause discomfort and pelvic injuries to some officers when seated in their police vehicles.

"This holster was overwhelmingly the most preferred option as it allows the firearm to sit high on the thigh, providing a more natural drawing position, comfortable posture when sitting in a vehicle and allows more movement for running," NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas said

"The new ballistic vests provide protection against high velocity round strikes and meets the current National Institute of Justice standard, which includes rigorous testing that subjects the armour to extremes anticipated in operational environments."

The vest is tested for durability and ballistic integrity when subjected to heat, moisture and mechanical wear simulations.

The design also includes a utility pocket to enable the officer to carry items they would normally wear on their LBV, including a portable radio, mobile phone or a Taser.

The DRTH was designed and developed by the Operational Safety and Skills Command.