System Guides

8.3.3 Use of Force Continuum

This section emphasizes the importance of establishing and documenting procedures outlining a use of force continuum, which guides the application of force during security operations. The use of force should be reasonable and appropriate for the specific circumstances. Here are the key elements:

1. Establishment of Use of Force Continuum Procedures:

• Requirements: The organization is required to create and document procedures that define a use of force continuum to be applied during security operations.

2. Elements of the Use of Force Continuum:

• The use of force continuum should include the following key elements:

a) Reasonable Force: The use of force must be reasonable concerning its intensity, duration, and magnitude, taking into account the circumstances prevailing at the time. b) Warning and Opportunity to Withdraw: When the situation allows, individuals should be warned, and they should have the opportunity to withdraw or cease threatening actions. c) De-escalation: Procedures should outline methods for de-escalating applied force, whenever the situation and circumstances permit. d) Supervisory Controls: There should be controls in place to supervise and manage the initiation, escalation, and de-escalation of the use of force. These controls should define the limits of authority in this regard.

3. Consistency with Self-Defense:

• Use of force continuum procedures should align with the inherent right of self-defense, ensuring that any force applied is reasonable and justifiable based on the circumstances.

Establishing and documenting use of force continuum procedures ensures that security operations are conducted with a clear framework for the application of force. This framework emphasizes the importance of reasonableness, warnings, de-escalation when possible, and appropriate supervisory controls, all while remaining consistent with the right of self-defense.

8.3.4 Less-Lethal Force

This section addresses the use of less-lethal force within the organization's use of force procedures. Less-lethal force refers to force that is less likely to result in death or serious physical injury. The organization's procedures should outline the types of less-lethal force authorized for its personnel during security operations. Here are the key points:

1. Addressing Less-Lethal Force:

• Requirements: The organization's use of force procedures must include provisions for the use of less-lethal force.

2. Types of Less-Lethal Force:

• The procedures should specify the types of less-lethal force that are authorized and available to its personnel.

3. Compliance with Applicable Laws:

• Procedures for the use of less-lethal force should be in accordance with applicable and relevant laws related to self-defense.

4. Circumstances for Less-Lethal Force:

• The use of less-lethal force should be documented in the procedures and authorized in situations such as:

a) Using less-lethal force against persons who are assaulting others or themselves to prevent injury or the continuation of the assault when alternatives to force have failed or are unavailable. b) Using less-lethal force against persons who are resisting lawful apprehension when alternatives to force have failed or are unavailable. c) Using less-lethal force to prevent the loss or destruction of property under the organization's protection.

The organization's procedures should provide clear guidance on the appropriate use of less-lethal force in specific circumstances, ensuring that it is employed only when necessary and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.