Oranienburg's public order office is upgrading: bullet vests for field workers!

Oranienburg's public order office is upgrading: bullet vests for field workers!

In Oranienburg, the public order office's field staff are currently struggling with a significant increase in verbal attacks and a harsher tone. Marcel Gutjahr, the head of the public order office, describes the situation as increasingly challenging. While employees often encounter resistance during their work during inspections, for example in the case of garbage problems, noise pollution or dog reports, they are equipped with comprehensive safety equipment. They not only wear uniforms and gloves, but also stab and protective vests as well as animal repellent spray to better defend themselves in critical situations. There are currently six sales representatives, including one woman, and there are ten positions to be filled to meet the high demand.

The visibility of the emergency services is increased through uniformed appearances and labeled vehicles, which is an important de-escalation measure. Especially in the large operational areas of the public order office, it is often difficult to be present everywhere at the same time. Employees often work in teams of two and the police are called in if necessary. De-escalation and understanding of human nature are essential to avoid or defuse conflicts. Regular training and self-defense training are therefore mandatory.

Training offers for employees

In order to further strengthen conflict management skills, the German Municipal Academy offers seminars on de-escalation strategies. The participants learn how they can prevent dangerous situations and what behavioral strategies there are to avoid conflicts. The focus is on practical exercises and role plays in order to be able to effectively apply the techniques learned. The trainers teach the basics of de-escalation, identifying potential dangers and communication techniques that can help calm and resolve conflicts. This creates a safer working environment, which benefits both employees and the general public. Further information about the seminars can be found on the Municipal Academy website.

Social challenges

The increasing social disinterest and growing unrest are also reflected in the everyday confrontations that the employees of the public order office are confronted with. Gutjahr emphasizes that although there have been no physical attacks from the field staff, verbal interactions have become rougher and less friendly. In a further discussion, the use of weapons for the public order office will also be considered, a topic that Gutjahr finds unsuitable. He points out that a “thick skin” and a high tolerance are necessary for the work.

The challenges facing the public order office should not be underestimated. The combination of required safety measures, ongoing training and dealing with a tense social atmosphere puts pressure on field staff. The planned increase in the number of employees could help to put the burden on a broader basis. So it remains to be seen how the situation will develop further.

There is also interesting news in the entertainment industry today, October 29, 2025, with several prominent TV premieres that can provide a little balance to the stressful everyday working life. New seasons of “Selling Sunset” on Netflix and “Hazbin Hotel” on Prime Video are starting today. Regarding the security aspect already mentioned, this can help the public order office employees to switch off and leave the challenges of everyday life behind them for a moment.