What is the standard policy reference for using OC spray?

What is the standard policy reference for using OC spray?

• A. OC spray should always be used in every encounter.
• B. Use OC spray only when reasonable, necessary to gain compliance, and with regard to safety and medical considerations.
• C. OC spray is never allowed.
• D. Use of OC spray should be avoided unless there is lethal danger.

Answer: (B)

The standard policy treats OC spray as a controlled, non‑lethal option that must be used only when it is reasonable and necessary to gain compliance, with careful consideration of safety and medical factors. This means officers should first seek de‑escalation, use verbal commands, and apply distance and other non‑physical tactics when possible. If force is needed to prevent harm, OC spray may be deployed to achieve compliance, but only after weighing the threat and potential risks to everyone involved, including medical concerns such as asthma, heart or respiratory conditions, allergies, or other conditions that could be worsened by exposure. It’s not appropriate to use in every encounter, and it’s not restricted to lethal danger alone, but rather lies on a continuum where the decision to deploy is guided by reasonableness, necessity, and safety for all.

The standard policy treats OC spray as a controlled, non‑lethal option that must be used only when it is reasonable and necessary to gain compliance, with careful consideration of safety and medical factors. This means officers should first seek de‑escalation, use verbal commands, and apply distance and other non‑physical tactics when possible. If force is needed to prevent harm, OC spray may be deployed to achieve compliance, but only after weighing the threat and potential risks to everyone involved, including medical concerns such as asthma, heart or respiratory conditions, allergies, or other conditions that could be worsened by exposure. It’s not appropriate to use in every encounter, and it’s not restricted to lethal danger alone, but rather lies on a continuum where the decision to deploy is guided by reasonableness, necessity, and safety for all.