There is a proclamation in the LI that states the ECS can not own equipment (arms and armor). My guess is that this is because of the fear that if the equipment was not in good condition, and broke and injured someone, the ECS would be liable.
If this is the thought process, then what happens if an individual loans out a sword or a piece of armor, and it fails, is the individual that loaned the piece liable? If so, that seems like it would be a larger concern to this group. If it's not the case, then why would the group as a whole be liable for loaning a piece that malfunctioned, but not an individual?
Just need some clarification.