Abstract: A cover for use with a container (1) comprises one or more layers (11, 12, 15) of high tensile strength, high stretch resistance flexible material which are capable of resisting penetration by bomb blast and fragmentation and which are adapted so that the cover can expand and absorb and/or channel the blast from within the container (1). For this purpose, the layers of flexible material are interconnected by hook-and-eye type fabric fasteners, which can give or release under load to allow controlled expansion of the cover in the event of an explosion. The container may be the type used to carry cargo or luggage on an aircraft and placing the cover (11, 12, 15) about the container a bomb secreted in the luggage or cargo will be prevented from destroying the aircraft.

Abstract: A bag or similar portable container having a wall or walls surrounding an internal space accessible through an opening (4) in the bag, the wall or walls incorporating or being lined with one or more layers (6) of high tensile strength and high stretch resistance material such as to be capable of resisting penetration by a bullet. Preferably, a single multi-layer sheet (6) is used to form the wall or walls (9) by folding the sheet at the corners (32), thereby avoiding joins that would be vulnerable to penetration. Preferably, the penetration resistant material (6) is backed up by one or more layers (11) of an impact absorbing material, such as polycarbonate sheet material and foamed plastics material. The layers of penetration resistance material (6) and impact absorbing material (11) may be separately formed as removable inserts that are used to line the bag.

Abstract: A garment having an outer cover (1) to receive an insert (2), the outer cover (1) having a window (7) formed therein, and either the insert (2) having a label (9) that is visible through the window when the insert is inserted, thereby to indicate that the insert has been inserted and preferably to identify its protective properties, and/or the outer cover (1) having a label (11) on its inner surface opposite the window (7) so as to be visible therethrough when the insert is not inserted, thereby to indicate that the insert has not been inserted. Where the insert (2) may be inserted either way round in a correct or incorrect orientation, a label (9, 10) may be provided on either or both sides of the insert so as to indicate that the insert is correctly or incorrectly inserted in the cover when visible in the window (7).