CHAPTER 11- USE OF FORCE THEORY

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

❖ Explain the authority to use force under the Criminal Code

➢ Explanation on the use of force model and its framework components
➢ Explanation on how to choose an appropriate use of force component and justify
an action
❖ Explanation on how to act under stress and maintain composure
❖ Explain positional asphyxia and excited delirium

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NATIONAL USE OF FORCE FRAMEWORK

The National Use of Force Framework is a visual representation of the factors involved
in the decision-making process of law enforcement practitioners, including security
guards, when assessing a situation and responding in a way that prioritizes safety.

It is not meant to condone or prescribe the use of force, but rather to help practitioners
understand and explain the events that occur during a use of force incident.

The framework is guided by three principles:

1. Preserving and protecting life,

2. Ensuring public safety, and
3. Protecting guard safety.
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It should be noted that this framework does not determine organizational policies and
was created considering federal and case law.

The National use of Force Framework is made up of 4 circles:

1. The Situational Circle

2. The Subject Behaviours Circle
3. Perception and Tactical Considerations Circle
4. Use of Force Options
Three factors that will determine what force option is used:

1. Situational Factors
2. Subject Behaviours
3. Perception and Tactical Considerations

THE SITUATIONAL CIRCLE

The 3-step process for guards responding to incidents:

1. Assessment – Evaluate the situation.

2. Planning – Determine a course of action.
3. Action – Implement the plan.

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Note: The process is ongoing and requires constant reevaluation of the situation as it
changes.

Six situational factors to consider during the assessment phase:

1. ENVIRONMENT

▪ Weather Conditions
▪ Time of Day
▪ Remote or Dense Location
▪ Your Physical Position

2. NUMBER OF SUBJECTS INVOLVED

▪ Facing Subject Alone

▪ Subject Facing You And Others
▪ Facing Multiple Subjects Alone
▪ You And Others Facing Multiple Subjects

3. KNOWLEDGE OF THE SUBJECTS

▪ Police Information
▪ History/Reputation Of Subject
▪ Demonstrated Ability

4. SUBJECTS’ ABILITIES

▪ Subject Under The Influence of Pride Alcohol/Drugs/Fear

▪ Intoxication vs. Being Under the Influence.
▪ Size of Subject
▪ Emotional State
▪ Presence of and Closeness to Weapons

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5. TIME AND DISTANCE FACTORS

▪ Seriousness of Situation
▪ Need For You to Act Immediately
▪ Could You Have Created More Time & Distance
▪ Escape Routes

6. SIGNS OF POTENTIAL ATTACK

▪ Ignoring You
▪ Repetitious Questioning
▪ Aggressive Talk
▪ Venting
▪ Refusing to Comply With Lawful Requests
▪ Ceasing all Movement
▪ Invasion of Your Personal Space
▪ Aggressive Stance
▪ Attempts to Hide Identity

SCENARIO: A security guard is working at a large concert venue and notices a group of
unruly concert-goers who have become aggressive and are causing a disturbance.

Answer: In this scenario, the security guard would need to follow the stages of the
situational circle of assess, plan, and act in order to control the situation.

ASSESSMENT

During the assessment stage, the security guard would need to carefully evaluate the
level of threat posed by the aggressive concert-goers. This would involve taking note of
several factors such as the number of individuals involved, the level of aggressiveness,
any weapons or objects that could be used to cause harm to others or property around
the area, the potential for any harm or threat to bystanders, and any environmental
factors that could impact the situation.
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PLAN

From there, the security guard would be required to develop a plan based on the
assessment they had made. They would need to communicate with other security
guards or staff present in the venue to ensure they have sufficient support to handle the
situation. They might have to decide to isolate the unruly group into a separate area and
restrict entry of general public into that area until the situation is under control. The
security team might need to secure the area and create a boundary or cordon to limit
access to that area.

ACTION

Finally, in the action phase, the security guard would need to implement their plan and
take the necessary steps to control the situation. This could include the use of verbal
commands, physical restraint, or even non-lethal tactics such as Pepper spray, tasers
or batons. It is imperative in such situations to act quickly and decisively. However, the
security guard should make use of the minimum amount of force necessary to manage
the situation and restore peace while ensuring that the safety of everyone in the area is
considered, including the concert-goers, bystanders as well as the security personnel
present. The ultimate goal in any such scenario should always be to ensure the safety
of everyone involved and asset protection.

THE SUBJECT BEHAVIORS

When considering the use of force to remove someone, it is important to anticipate the
subject’s potential behavior. The following are different levels of behavior to expect:

❖ COOPERATIVE – The person complies with the guard’s instructions without

resistance.
❖ PASSIVE RESISTANT – The person refuses to comply with directions but does not
physically resist.
❖ ACTIVE RESISTANT – The person uses non-violent physical actions to resist the
guard’s lawful direction.
❖ ASSAULTIVE – The person tries to apply force or threatens to do so through actions
or gestures.
❖ GRIEVOUS BODILY HARM OR DEATH – The person exhibits actions that the guard
believes are intended to cause serious harm or death to any person.
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SCENARIO: A security guard has confronted a person on the premises of a jewelry store
who was trying to break into the store. The individual becomes belligerent and starts to
threaten the security guard.

ANSWER: In this scenario, the use of force would be determined by the subject behavior
circle. The security guard must evaluate the individual’s behavior and determine which
level of resistance they are exhibiting.

COOPERATIVE: If the individual is cooperative and not being physically aggressive, the
security guard could attempt to diffuse the situation through dialogue. The security guard
could ask the individual to leave the premises and wait for the police to handle the
situation. If the individual leaves the premises, the incident will have been resolved
peacefully.

PASSIVE RESISTANT: If the individual is nonviolent, resistant, or unresponsive to

verbal commands, the security guard could use tactics like verbal de-escalation, crowd
control techniques, and passive restraint tactics like handcuffs or leg irons to control the
situation.

ACTIVE RESISTANT: If the individual becomes physically confrontational and attempts

to attack the security guard, the guard may use non-lethal self-defense tactics like
pepper spray or a stun gun to control the situation. The security guard should make
people coming in and out of the jewelry store aware of the ongoing situation and call for
backup.

ASSAULTIVE: If the individual is attacking with the intention to cause physical harm to
the security guard, the guard may be forced to use physical restraint techniques, such
as grappling or pain compliance techniques, to subdue them. In such an extreme case,
the security guard should call the law enforcement authorities to report the incident and
bring the attacker into custody with minimal injury.

GRIEVOUS BODILY HARM OR DEATH: If the individual is using lethal force, like use
of guns, and the security guard has no means of escape, the guard may have to use
force responsive with the same level of force that the attacker is using to defend
themselves or others present in the premises. Here the guard may be required to use
any means necessary to bring the attacker down, including the use of a weapon. In such
cases, the security guard should be trained on self-defense with firearms or other lethal
means.
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In making use of force decisions, the security guard should ensure that the force
measured is reasonable and proportional to the situation at hand. After the situation is
under control, the security guard should report the incident and notify management and
emergency response teams of the events that took place.

PERCEPTION AND TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Security guard’s decision-making and reaction in a given situation is shaped by their

perception of the situation. Perception is defined as a guard’s individual interpretation of
a situation.

The perception and tactical consideration circle in the use of force related to the security
guard focuses on the way in which the security guard perceives and evaluates a situation
before taking any action.

❖ PERCEPTION:

This involves an assessment of the environment for any hazardous or threatening

circumstances that may require a use of force response. During this stage, the security
guard should evaluate the behavior of subjects involved and assess what their potential
actions may be.

The security guard should also assess the surroundings to determine what is available
to use in response to a situation. Perception considering factors such as the crowd size,
access points, and possible exits, as well as potential threats gives them a guide in the
appropriate response.
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❖ TACTICAL CONSIDERATION:

During this phase, the security guard will consider and decide on the appropriate use of
force level that is necessary to mitigate the risk and to respond to the threat. Based on
the level of threat perceived, the security guard will decide on the best approach that
needs to be taken in response to the situation.

The tactical considerations evaluate multiple tools available for security personnel like
verbal commands, use of restraint methods, or use of non-lethal and lethal force. The
security guard would adopt steps to de-escalate the situation by talking to the subject
involved or disengaging the person while ensuring safety is maintained, and adhere to
protocols as laid down by the organization.

The security guard must be well informed, trained and constantly updated on the latest
regulations when it comes to the use of force. The guard must also have the right
equipment and support from the organization to handle any situation, which ensures best
practices and safety protocols.

The objective of the use of force in any situation must always be focused on safety, and
it should be proportional, necessary, and reasonable to the threat presented. By
following and implementing our perception and tactical consideration circle, the security
guard can better handle situations safely, effectively and minimize risk to all involved.

Example of Perception and Tactical Consideration Circle in the use of force related to
the security guard:

SCENARIO:

A security guard stationed at a hospital encounters an individual who is threatening

hospital staff and trying to force his way through a restricted area.

PERCEPTION: During the perception stage, the security guard should evaluate the
environment to understand the extent of the threat posed by the individual. The guard
should observe the individual’s behavior and assess if they may be under the influence
of drugs or alcohol because it can escalate risks. The security guard should also assess
the surroundings such as whether there are any victims present or other threats in the
area.

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TACTICAL CONSIDERATION: After assessing the level of threat posed by the

individual, the security guard will decide on the appropriate use of force. The guard may
decide to use verbal commands to de-escalate the situation or use physical restraint
methods, such as handcuffs, to protect themselves and others from physical harm.

The guard may opt to call the authorities for backup, especially if the individual is heavily-
armed or more violent. The security guard should use non-lethal tactics at the beginning,
focusing on gaining control over the situation without escalating the level of force. The
guard should always deploy the least amount of force required to de-escalate the
situation and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Ultimately, it is vital that security guards train for threat assessment within the perception
and tactical consideration circle of the use of force. With an emphasis on minimizing the
threat and making sure every step is necessary and proportional, the security guard will
be able to make the best possible decisions to ensure public safety and minimal harm in
high-pressure situations.

USE OF FORCE OPTIONS

1. APPEARANCE: This is the simplest and least invasive use of force. It involves using
the physical appearance of security personnel and equipment to deter potential threats.
This can include wearing a uniform or badge that signifies authority, or placing security
cameras and warning signs in visible areas.

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2. COMMUNICATION: This involves verbal commands and warnings from security

personnel to avert a situation from escalating. Communication techniques can include
using loud and clear commands, reasoning with individuals, or defusing a tense situation
through diplomacy.
3. PHYSICAL RESTRAINT TECHNIQUES: This option can be used when verbal
commands and warnings have failed or when the situation has escalated beyond the
verbal stage. These techniques can include wrist locks, arm bars, joint locks, or other
techniques designed to restrain an individual without causing serious harm.
4. INTERMEDIATE WEAPONS: These are tools designed to increase the force level of
security personnel beyond physical restraint techniques. Examples of intermediate
weapons include pepper spray, batons, and tasers. These weapons are used to subdue
an individual and bring the situation under control.
5. LETHAL FORCE: This is the most severe form of use of force and should only be
used as a last resort when all other options have failed. Lethal force includes the use of
firearms and other deadly weapons that can result in the loss of life. Security personnel
must be well-trained and qualified to use these weapons safely and effectively.
It is important to note that each situation is unique and the level of force used must be
appropriate to the threat posed. Security personnel must be proficient in selecting the
appropriate use of force option based on the situation and their training.
THE LAW GOVERNING THE USE OF FORCE
While under some circumstances the Criminal Code (Canada) may provide protection
for a Security Guard who uses force, it also clearly holds the guard who uses too much
force, or who uses force inappropriately, accountable for his or her actions.
There is no carte blanche authorization that will guarantee the legal or moral protection
of an individual using force on another. Instead, as we shall see, the test focuses on the
reasonableness of the actions given all of the circumstances.
The logic behind this limited coverage is that with the authority to take action also comes
responsibility for those actions Section 25 of the Criminal Code (Canada) is the general
clause that protects persons who are acting with some legal authority that use force in
the execution of those duties.

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PROTECTION OF PERSONS ACTING UNDER AUTHORITY

25(1) Every one who is required or authorized by law to do anything in the administration
or enforcement of the law:
(a) as a private person;
(b) as a peace officer or public officer;
(c) in aid of a peace officer or public officer; or
(d) by virtue of his office;
is, if he acts on reasonable grounds, justified in doing what he is required or authorized
to do and in using as much force as is necessary for that purpose.
This section provides protection for persons who must use force to carry out their
responsibilities. This means if you have to use force to make an arrest, or to remove a
trespasser, or to conduct a search, or seize articles that may lawfully be seized, you are
both justified and protected as long as your actions are reasonable in the circumstances
and the amount of force used is no more than is necessary to accomplish the job.
Section 25 would protect an individual from criminal liability if the trier of fact (a court
reviewing the circumstances after the incident took place) concluded that the person
using the force acted on reasonable grounds, within his or her lawful authority, and used
only as much force as was necessary to carry out those duties.
Authorized or required by law in this section means that the individual taking some action
is doing so within his or her lawful authority. Generally speaking, Security Guards have
fairly broad authority under the Criminal Code.
For example, arresting an offender who is in the process of committing an offence is
permitted under the Criminal Code, provided that certain conditions exist. Arresting
individuals may be one of the duties assigned to security. The use of force to effect an
arrest may be permissible, if an offence had been committed, the reasonable person
would conclude that force was necessary, and if the force used was no more than
necessary.
Again, note the return to the “reasonable grounds” test in this section. The word
“reasonable” is not defined in this portion of the Criminal Code, but case law – the way
the law has been interpreted by Judges of all levels of Court since it was first introduced
– creates the standard known as the “reasonable person test”. This test involves posing

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the question of what a mythical “reasonable” ordinary, cautious and prudent person
would do in similar circumstances.
No more force than is necessary means the absolute bare minimum level of force that is
required to perform the duty is used. The reasonable person, looking at the situation,
would feel that there is a maximum level of force that can be used, given all of the
circumstances at hand. Exceeding this maximum amount and using more force than is
necessary is likely to result in criminal or civil liability.
Force, which is intended or likely to cause death or grievous bodily harm, can only be
used to preserve oneself or someone else from death or grievous bodily harm. The use
of deadly force on an individual fleeing the scene of the crime or escaping arrest would
not be justified, for example.
(3) Subject to subsections (4) and (5), a person is not justified for the purposes of
subsection (1) in using force that is intended or is likely to cause death or grievous bodily
harm unless the person believes on reasonable grounds that it is necessary for the self-
preservation of the person or the preservation of any one under that person’s protection
from death or grievous bodily harm.
Anyone who uses force when it is not necessary or lawful, or who uses an excessive
amount of force given all of the circumstances, may be held criminally and/or civilly
responsible. Sections 25 and 26 of the Criminal Code (Canada) must be read together.
Section 26 states:
EXCESSIVE FORCE
26. Every one who is authorized by law to use force is criminally responsible for any
excess thereof according to the nature and quality of the act that constitutes the excess.
If you use excessive force, you could be charged with assault. This section normally
does not come into play in circumstances where the reasonable person could easily
conclude that the force used was less than excessive.
It usually comes into use in circumstances where the use of force was, to an objective
bystander, clearly more than what was required, such as where a prisoner is seriously
injured or killed when it was clear the task might have been accomplished with less force.
However, even a small amount of force used might be enough to seriously injure or kill,
depending on the circumstances. The courts will also be regarding the matter with the
crystal clear vision of hindsight. Caution should be used in the exercise of force, as the
repercussions of a hasty decision may continue to haunt you for years to come.
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Section 27 of the Criminal Code (Canada) protects a person who used force to prevent
an offence where a person could be arrested without warrant and that would likely cause
immediate and serious injury to a person or property.

SCENARIO:

A security guard who works at a retail store has been trained to use reasonable force to
detain suspected shoplifters. One day, the guard tackles a suspected shoplifter who had
attempted to run away with stolen merchandise. However, the force he used was
excessive for the situation, causing the suspect to suffer from serious injuries.

As a result, the suspect files a complaint against the security guard and the retail store
for using excessive and unnecessary force. The incident is investigated by the police
and the retail store's management team.

After reviewing the surveillance footage, it was determined that the security guard used
more force than necessary to detain the suspect. The security guard is subsequently
fired from his position and may also face legal consequences for his actions.

This scenario highlights the importance of training security guards to use reasonable and
appropriate force and the consequences that can arise from using excessive force.

ACT UNDER PRESSURE AND MAINTAIN COMPOSURE

Being a security guard requires extensive training, commitment, and patience.

Nonetheless, there may be instances when you are under a great deal of work-related
pressure and have a strong desire to break down.

These are some strategies for a security guard to remain calm under pressure:

❖ RELAX AND IMAGINE THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOME.

Visualization is an effective method for calming the mind and body. It helps eliminate
distracting thoughts and facilitates speedy concentration. Visualization aids in
understanding what to expect and planning a course of action. Use the power of your
imagination, and you will realise that you are able to remain calm and manage work-
related stress.

❖ ASSESS THE SITUATION WITH CAUTION

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As a security guard, regardless of the difficulty you face, you must always evaluate it
objectively and from all angles. Create a list of options to help you deal with the current
issue after evaluating it. Hence, you will always be able to remain calm and unruffled
under pressure throughout work hours.

❖ CREATE A PLAN

In accordance with the second guideline, you must be prepared for whatever situation
you may encounter. As a security guard, you never know when a crisis or security
scenario will emerge; therefore, you must act impulsively.

Make a list of emergency plans so that, when faced with an emergency, you do not panic
and make a mistake that could endanger everyone involved.

❖ DEAL WITH THE ISSUE PROPERLY

As a security guard, you might encounter impolite, intoxicated, and even racist
individuals. Rather than reacting on the fly of the moment, consider your contingency
plans and implement them precisely as you have prepared.

Never use violence or other measures just because you are in the heat of the moment.
When you execute your plans, you will discover that you can handle the issue with much
more composure and skill.

❖ BE KIND WITH YOURSELF

No matter how skilled or competent you are, you will eventually grow stressed and
exhausted. Instead of punishing yourself for feeling this way, remind yourself that you
are human and that this is entirely natural. Consider alternative solutions and return to
being the skilled security guard that you are.

❖ DEVELOP YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Although being a security guard may demand you to be tough, it is necessary to express
your emotions to your employer. If you experience excessive pressure at work,
communicate with your supervisor or management.

Ask your senior coworkers how they handle stress, and learn from their responses. The
key to solving a problem lies in communicating your emotions.

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ARRESTING AS A SECURITY GUARD

When someone is arrested, their freedom is taken from them. When a person gets
arrested, he or she is physically under the control of another.

Arresting someone does not necessitate the use of force. Just declaring one's authority
as a security guard may be sufficient to deprive certain individuals of their rights. A simple
"Come with me" can be interpreted as an arrest. A person who voluntarily accompany
you may be arrested in the same way as a person who is handcuffed is.

Arrest can be a complicated, tough, and uncomfortable issue. Understand the arrest
procedure: A prudent security guard is familiar with arrest processes. When arresting,
security guards should not put themselves in risk. Consider arrest the Final option. When
in doubt, proceed with caution.

The following are the five steps to a proper arrest procedure:

➢ "I am a security guard for," you say.

➢ Inform the individual that "you are under arrest."
➢ Provide a reason, such as "for the theft of an iPad."
➢ Take physical command (make contact) Inform the offender as soon as possible
following the arrest, such as when you return to the security or manager's office, that:
i. He or she has the right to retain and instruct whichever counsel they wish legal aid
is available immediately, free of charge and toll free if he or she needs it
ii. He or she may contact a parent, relative, guardian or other adult (if a young
offender)
iii. A telephone and list of lawyers (yellow pages) would be made available. (If he or
she phones a lawyer, allow the person to talk in privacy. Record all responses to
your questions if you had an interview with the offender)

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FALSE ARREST

False arrest occurs when an individual is physically detained without having the legal
authority to do so. It is a criminal offence to make a false arrest. It is a violation of the
law to detain a person when you are aware that they have not committed a crime. Suits
for damages, which may include mental distress and embarrassment, can and do arise
as a consequence of likely false arrests.
People who make a citizen's arrest by holding someone who they have not seen commit
a crime or pretending that they are Police officers and who are commonly found guilty of
false arrest include private security guards, business and property owners, and
employees of retail establishments who make a citizen's arrest by holding someone who
they have not seen commit a crime.
It is also possible for the police to be prosecuted with making a false arrest if they take
the wrong person into custody, make an arrest without probable cause, or make an arrest
without a warrant.
There is sufficient evidence to justify a citizen's arrest in the event that a security guard
is present during the commission of the offence. It is imperative that the authorities be
contacted as soon as possible.
FALSE IMPRISONEMENT
False incarceration arises when a person is purposely deprived of freedom of movement
without the following:
Both a legal basis or authority, as well as the consent of the individual who is being held,
are required.
The following are examples of this type of tort:
➢ Keeping a person in a restricted place,
➢ Keeping a person physically restrained, and
➢ Keeping a person psychologically bound are all examples of holding someone
captive.

Suits for damages can and do occur as a result of wrongful imprisonment, and they
frequently do so after allegations of wrongful arrest. Individuals who are guilty of the
offence for which they had been imprisoned can file a claim of wrongful arrest if the

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detention was unjustified. Nevertheless, this only applies if the person had been held for
an extended period of time.
If someone wants to pursue legal action for false incarceration, they need to ensure that
all four of the following important factors are present:
➢ The behavior of the person who causes imprisonment was done on purpose;
➢ The confinement was absolute and there was no way out;
➢ The detainee was detained against his or her will.
➢ The detainee's acquiescence is forced and against his or her choice; and
➢ The detainer's actions are unlawful or unapproved.

The following instances are all examples of wrongfully incarcerating someone:

Keeping the detainee in
➢ In the administrative area of a retail store, with oblique references to potential
physical harm;
➢ In a place that was locked In a vehicle that was secured
➢ Within a room with a locked door
➢ While being restrained to a chair
➢ Within a moving vehicle where there is no possibility to exit
➢ By seizing custody of the valuable things belonging to the inmate

USE OF FORCE REPORT

As a security guard, writing a use of force report is a critical aspect of your job. The report
helps document the incident and provides a record of the use of force, which may be
used in legal proceedings. Here are the steps to write a use of force report:

1. Begin by providing the essential details of the incident, including the date, time,
and location of the incident. Also, include your name and the name of the
individual(s) involved.

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2. Describe the events that led to the use of force. Explain the actions of the
individual(s) that led you to make the decision to use force. Be objective and stick
to the facts, avoiding any personal opinions or judgments.
3. Detail the type of force used, including the level of force you used, how long it was
applied, and who else was present during the incident. Describe what you
observed and your own actions leading up to and during the incident.
4. If applicable, include any warnings or verbal commands you gave to the
individual(s) prior to using force. Explain how the individual(s) reacted, and any
other relevant details.
5. If you or someone else was injured during the incident, provide a detailed account
of the injuries, including any medical treatment that was given.
6. A conclusion summarizing the details of the incident, including the type and level
of force used, and an explanation of why you believed it was necessary to use that
level of force.

Remember, your use of force report should be as detailed and objective as possible. Be
sure to use clear and concise language, and avoid using first person pronouns, like "I".
Once complete, be sure to submit your report to your supervisor, in accordance with
your organization's policies and procedures.

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EXCITED DELIRIUM

Excited Delirium is a dangerous medical emergency that occurs in individuals who are
suffering from either substance abuse or psychiatric illness. This condition can result in
death due to cardiac arrest, suffocation, or asphyxiation by inhaling vomit.

It is crucial for emergency medical responders to quickly evaluate and treat individuals
exhibiting any combination of the following symptoms. The priority is to save a person's
life, even if it means disregarding a potential criminal charge.

There are many things that can cause a person with excited delirium who needs to be
restrained to die suddenly. These people have problems with their thinking, behavior,
and mood, and they become angry and violent.

Excited delirium is a complex medical condition that can occur during confrontations with
security personnel. It often results from a combination of drug use, mental health issues,
and physical exertion.

Here are some examples of situations that may involve excited delirium:

1. AGITATED INDIVIDUAL: A security guard encounters an individual who is acting

erratically and appears to be in a state of agitation. The guard attempts to calm the
individual, but they become increasingly hostile and irrational. The individual may exhibit
signs of delirium, including overheating, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and other physical
symptoms.

2. SUSPECTED DRUG USE: A security guard observes an individual who is behaving

in a highly agitated manner that is not typical of normal behavior. The individual may
have taken drugs or be under the influence of alcohol, leading to potentially dangerous
behaviors. In this situation, the guard should use caution and contact law enforcement
for assistance.

3. HYPOXIC INJURY: A security guard encounters an individual who has sustained a

hypoxic injury, such as a near-drowning or drug overdose. The individual is extremely
agitated and may exhibit signs of delirium or other mental health issues. In this situation,
the guard should call for medical assistance and use appropriate physical restraint
techniques to prevent self-harm or harm to others.
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4. MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES: A security guard encounters an individual who exhibits

signs of severe mental illness, including erratic behavior, delusions, hallucinations, and
paranoia. The individual may become agitated or violent, requiring the use of force to
restrain them. In these situations, the security guard should exercise patience and use
verbal de-escalation techniques to calm the individual.

In all of these situations, it's important for security personnel to be aware of the possibility
of excited delirium and to call for medical assistance or law enforcement as needed.
Excited delirium can be a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition, and it's
critical to use appropriate use of force tactics that recognize the physical and mental
health risks involved.

POSITIONAL ASPHYXIA

Positional asphyxia is a medical condition that can occur during physical restraint
situations, where the individual is restrained in a position that makes it difficult or
impossible for them to breathe properly, leading to death. Here are some examples of
situations that may involve positional asphyxia:

1. HANDCUFFING: A security guard handcuffs an individual, placing them face down

on the ground. The individual's weight and the pressure of the handcuffs against their
back and chest make it difficult for them to breathe properly. The individual may
become unconscious, leading to serious injury or death.

2. CHOKEHOLDS: A security guard uses a chokehold on an individual, causing them to

lose consciousness due to compression on their airways or blood vessels. The individual
may also experience injuries to their neck or spine, leading to long-term health problems
or death.

3. PHYSICAL RESTRAINT TECHNIQUES: A security guard uses physical restraint

techniques that involve placing an individual in a prone position on the ground, with their
arms and legs held behind or to the side. The weight of the security guard and the
position of the individual can make it difficult for them to breathe properly, leading to
injury or death.

55 Nugget Avenue, Unit#207, © Safety First Security (416) 906-4011

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4. CHEMICAL RESTRAINT TECHNIQUES: A security guard uses chemical restraint

techniques, such as the application of pepper spray, which can cause the individual to
struggle for breath and experience respiratory distress if they have pre-existing
respiratory conditions.

Positional asphyxia is a serious medical condition that can result in severe injury or death
for individuals who are restrained in certain positions. Security guards should receive
training in the proper use of force techniques, including techniques that minimize the risk
of positional asphyxia. Guards should be trained on how to recognize the signs of
positional asphyxia, including difficulty breathing, unusual breathing sounds, and
cyanosis (blue discoloration of the skin), and immediately adjust the restraint position to
prevent serious injury or death.

Example: Suspect Dies for Positional Asphyxia (Please read the news article below)

An inquest in Ontario has found that a man died of “accidental restraint asphyxia” when
grocery store employees tried to restrain him.

Patrick Shand, 31, died in September 1999 after he was handcuffed and pinned to the
ground outside a Loblaws store in Scarborough by two staff members and a private
security guard.

They had followed him from their store after suspecting him of shoplifting.

Shand’s family has called into question the training procedures of security guards at
Loblaws and in the province.

The jury also made 22 recommendations aimed at improving training and regulation of
private security in Ontario.

“This will prevent any other family from going through what we have gone through,” says
Shand’s mother Lethel.

The Private Investigators and Security Guards Act makes no mention of the use of
weapons, dogs or force when guards make arrests.

To prevent positional asphyxia, after handcuffing a suspect, place him/ her in recovery
position or have him/ her stand up or sit up as soon as possible.
If suspect stops breathing start CPR and immediately call for an ambulance.

55 Nugget Avenue, Unit#207, © Safety First Security (416) 906-4011

Scarborough, Ontario, M1S 3L1 Safety1security@[Link]