POLICE in Oxfordshire will be equipped with guards they can place over suspects’ heads to prevent them from spitting.

The controversial spit guards – also known as spit hoods – are being rolled out to front line Thames Valley Police (TVP) officers to protect them from infection via saliva and blood.

But some human rights groups have condemned their use, saying they can be ‘distressing’ and ‘cruel’.

Assistant chief constable of operations for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police David Hardcastle said: “We looked at the options that were available, not only for officer’s health but to protect them from this disgusting and vile act.

“Our information suggests this is a growing issue and that we need to deal with it.”

Since April last year, 306 TVP officers have reported being spat at while on duty. 30 of these reported being exposed to risk of virus as a result of fluid entering their mouth, nose, eyes or wound.

From this month, front line officers will be equipped with the guards and trained in their use. The guards are made from a light, see-through, breathable material and contain a plastic section which prevents a person from spitting.

Some groups have expressed concern over the use of the equipment.

Allan Hogarth, Amnesty International’s UK head of policy and government affairs, said: “Their use in some circumstances is cruel and even dangerous, causing extreme distress and restricted breathing, and they can even lead to fatalities.”

He called for police forces to stop using the kit until detailed guidance has been established.

Mr Hardcastle said suspects wearing the guards would be monitored constantly.

The move to give the kit to front line officers was introduced jointly with Hampshire Police.

Last year a Freedom of Information request found that 17 of the UK’s 49 police forces use spit hoods.