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Welcome to the EuroPris Knowledge Management System. The table below shows questions and responses from European National Agencies. Select a question for more information or use the filters on the left to narrow down questions based on Agency or Category.
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Introduction: At the Directorate General of Prison Services in Catalonia we are conducting a study to analyze the trends of assaults by inmates to prison staff occurred within our prisons. As part of this study, we are interested in learning about methods that might be in place in other prison jurisdictions to tackle this issue which have been efficient in reducing the number of assaults to prison staff. We would like to know whether pepper spray or other type of non-lethal weapons are at all being used inside prisons, how these are being used and what has been the effect of introducing these non-lethal weapons in the inmates’ behavior and prison staff safety.
Sprays, but they have a minimun and no relevant use and this use is trying to be limited and redefined.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?Explained before.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?Explained before.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?The legal frameeork is the same as for Catalonia.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemAs stated before, the use of sprays can not be considered as relevant or with any impact.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?No, the aim is to reduce harm with other strategies. Mainly, personal intervention in a therapeutical way.
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?The ones consisting on personal and therapeutical intervention.
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?The one consisting on the observation and evaluation of anual incidents.
Operational staff are not currently issued with non-lethal weapons as deterrents in the course of their normal duties within our prisons. Batons were previously issued to all prison officers and carried on landings but this practice was phased out in the 1980s. However we do carry batons in limited situations: • Escorting of prisoners outside the prison. • Inside the National Violence Reduction Unit. • As response to large scale disorder and/or interventions (although not always a requirement) 21” ASP Friction Lock Baton for escorting prisoners outside our prisons and within the N.V.R.U. 24” Public Order Baton for disorder.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?As above we have always had batons as a use of force option, although we now reserve this for situations outlined above. We introduced the issuing of batons for escorts outside our prisons Circa 2017 & November 2018 for National Violence Reduction Unit. In all prisons batons are issued to staff when escorting prisoners outside the prison, as there is a greater risk to staff carrying out these duties in an uncontrolled environment. Batons are issued to staff of the N.V.R.U. as there is a greater risk to those working in this area due to the category of prisoner in this unit.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?We have no personal defence sprays. Not applicable
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?Irish Statutory Instrument, S.I. No. 66/1991 - Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990 (Offensive Weapons). S.I. No. 66/1991 - Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990 (Offensive Weapons) available for download on line.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemNot aware of any data or study being correlated to this effect.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?The Irish Prison Service currently have no plans to implement the use of non-lethal weapons The Irish Prison Service currently employs a range of methods to address violent behaviour by prisoners as highlighted which we believe are sufficient, in the Irish context to address such behaviour
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?In the Irish Prison Service we implement a comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach to custody, within this approach and in regard to your study, two important elements particularly for Operational staff that reduce and/or prevent assaults are dynamic security and prisoner care. In the Irish Prison Service we are all proud of the culture and dynamic that has traditionally and currently exists in our prisons. This is a culture of positive and appropriate relationships between staff and prisoners. This is an aspect of our Prison Service that is often admired by other custodial agencies, this means for all involved that prison life progresses in a less hostile environment. Operational staff in addition to their public duty of securing our prisons also provide many supports to prisoners. A positive non hostile relationship benefits staff in fulfilling both duties.
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?State Claims Agency did a review on Assaults on Operational Prison Staff by Prisoners in 2016 available for download on line.
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The only item that would fit that description would be PAVA (Pelargonic Acid Vanillyamide), a synthetic capsaicinoid irritant spray classified as a prohibited weapon by section 5(1) (b) of the Firearms Act 1968 which operational staff are legitimised in using through their constabulary authority. As such it must only be used where there is serious violence or an imminent or perceived risk of it and there is an immediate necessity to create a safe and protective environment. PAVA is being introduced as part of a wider Personal Safety package alongside SPEAR training. This is to ensure that PAVA is used as part of a range of skills for staff to resolve and de-escalate incidents. The training is based on using the body’s natural flinch reaction when faced with danger and focuses on pre-contact cues to give staff greater awareness of their surroundings. Within the adult male prisons in HMPPS that have been officers that are trained have access to PAVA incapacitant spray for use in exceptional circumstances to prevent serious harm to staff or others. Four sites were initially involved in a pilot scheme in 2018, and since 2019 this has extended to all prisons within the adult male group – this has been delayed as a result of the COVID pandemic. Exceptional arrangements have been put in place in order to support the safety of staff and those in our care during COVID. This included the operational decision to extend the provision of PAVA in all adult male closed prisons, to staff that had been trained in both SPEAR and PAVA personal safety training. We reviewed this decision as part of our recovery plans and will continue to routinely review. As a result of the exceptional arrangements, 81 prisons in the male estate currently have PAVA. This consists of; 28 prisons that have been through full implementation, 4 pilot sites, 9 that had passed a readiness assessment and in which PAVA has been issued as exceptional deployment, and 40 sites at which PAVA has only been issued to local Use of Force instructors – again as exceptional deployment.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?Within the adult male prisons in HMPPS that have been officers that are trained have access to PAVA incapacitant spray for use in exceptional circumstances to prevent serious harm to staff or others. Four sites were initially involved in a pilot scheme in 2018, and since 2019 this has extended to all prisons within the adult male group – this has been delayed as a result of the COVID pandemic. Exceptional arrangements have been put in place in order to support the safety of staff and those in our care during COVID. This included the operational decision to extend the provision of PAVA in all adult male closed prisons, to staff that had been trained in both SPEAR and PAVA personal safety training. We reviewed this decision as part of our recovery plans and will continue to routinely review. As a result of the exceptional arrangements, 81 prisons in the male estate currently have PAVA. This consists of; 28 prisons that have been through full implementation, 4 pilot sites, 9 that had passed a readiness assessment and in which PAVA has been issued as exceptional deployment, and 40 sites at which PAVA has only been issued to local Use of Force instructors – again as exceptional deployment.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?Yes, as above PAVA is our incapacitant spray. The PAVA currently used is the Captor2 360, while the previous model was the TW1000, so both versions are currently in circulation. PAVA Irritant Spray is Nonivamide (0.30%), in a solution of Mono Propylene Glycol (72%), Water (25%) and Ethanol (2.7%). Like CS, the propellant is Nitrogen.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?PAVA is governed by the same legislation/policy as use of force generally – Criminal Law 1967, Common Law, HMPPS Prison Rule 1999 Rule 47/YOI Rules 2000 Rule 50, the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, and the European Convention on Human Rights, ensuring that whenever force is required that it adheres to the principles of being necessary, reasonable in the circumstances and proportionate to the seriousness of the circumstances. HMPPS fully recognise the value of interpersonal skills and how important these have been during this challenging time, PAVA is not intended to undermine this and it remains the case that it should absolutely only ever be the last available option.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemUnfortunately we are unable to assure the integrity of the data held regarding use of force, and currently there is no collation of data relating to the effectiveness of PAVA or other items comparatively to if these were not available.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?To support the implementation of PAVA and as part of the rehabilitative culture that HMPPS is working to foster, staff/prisoner relationships have been strengthened with the introduction of the Key Worker scheme. This looks to develop constructive, motivational relationships between staff and those in our care, with one-to-one sessions.
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?An evaluation is being carried out alongside the rollout of PAVA as well as Use of Force in English and Welsh prisons more generally. The aim of this evaluation is to capture and identify best practice and areas for improvement in our Use of Force culture, and work alongside colleagues to promote evidence-based practice. The evaluation will utilise quantitative data captured for incidents of force as well as both staff and prisoner feedback regarding use of force and PAVA. The evaluation is due to be completed by early 2023.
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?An evaluation is being carried out alongside the rollout of PAVA as well as Use of Force in English and Welsh prisons more generally. The aim of this evaluation is to capture and identify best practice and areas for improvement in our Use of Force culture, and work alongside colleagues to promote evidence-based practice. The evaluation will utilise quantitative data captured for incidents of force as well as both staff and prisoner feedback regarding use of force and PAVA. The evaluation is due to be completed by early 2023.
Yes. The Swedish prison and probation service (SPPS) use emergency response teams. The teams are equipped with pepper spray, batons, body protections and shields.. Emergency response teams has been in the prison for a long time.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?Since 1998, we have a centralized training with standardized tactics.The teams are used in all institutions and prison, regardless of security level. Right now we are revising these instructions and in the future, prisons in the lower security class will probably not have the same requirement as the prisons in the higher security class.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?We are using, at the moment, pepper spray witch contains OC (oleoresin capsicum witch is a pepper extract. The spray is water soluble.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?Yes, we have regulations that regulate, for example, use and storage. See attached text below. Prison Framework: Kriminalvårdens författningssamling ISSN 1653-6665 KVFS 2019:11 FARK OC Kriminalvårdens föreskrifter och allmänna råd (KVFS 2019:11) om OC-spray beslutade den 16 december 2019. Ändrade genom KVFS 2021:4. Kriminalvården föreskriver följande med stöd av 14 § förordningen (2007:1172) med instruktion för Kriminalvården och beslutar följande allmänna råd. Inledande bestämmelser 1 § OC-spray utgör en del av Kriminalvårdens säkerhetsutrustning och är avsedd att användas i syfte att hindra rymningar, upprätthålla ordning och säkerhet, förstärka skyddet i nödvärnssituationer samt öka möjligheterna att avbryta våldsamma situationer innan allvarlig skada uppstår. Om inte annat följer av denna föreskrift är en tjänsteman som är i tjänst skyldig att bära den OC-spray som har tilldelats honom eller henne. Skyldigheten att bära OC-spray föreligger oavsett om tjänstgöringen sker inom eller utanför tjänstemannens ordinarie verksamhetsställe. Allmänna råd En anordning med OC-spray är ett föremål som till verkan och ändamål är jämförligt med tårgasanordning och omfattas av vapenlagen (1996:67) och vapenförordningen (1996:70). 2 § Dessa föreskrifter och allmänna råd gäller för hantering av OC-spray inom Krimnalvårdens verksamhet. Bestämmelser om rätten att använda våld mot den som är frihetsberövad (laga befogenhet), nöd och nödvärn finns i 24 kapitlet brottsbalken. Allmänna råd Att använda OC-spray innebär ett betydande mått av våldsanvändning. Med våld avses inte enbart åtgärder som orsakar smärta eller skada, utan också sådana handlingar som orsakar psykiskt eller fysiskt obehag av någon betydelse, även om detta är av övergående natur. Den som bär OC-spray har alltid ett eget ansvar för att bedöma om det är försvarligt att använda OC-spray i den aktuella situationen. Normalt krävs det mer för att en handling ska anses som försvarlig när det handlar om ansvarsfrihetsgrunderna laga befogenhet och nöd än vad som krävs för att en nödvärnshandling ska vara försvarlig. Definitioner 3 § Med OC-spray avses i dessa föreskrifter och allmänna råd en vätska som består av ett pepparfruktextrakt och vatten som med hjälp av drivgas kan sprutas ut i form av en koncentrerad stråle i avsikt att reta ögonen på och tillfälligt förblinda den mot vilken strålen riktas. Den aktiva substansen i OC-spray är capsaicin (oleoresin capsicum). Med verksamhetsställe avses i dessa föreskrifter och allmänna råd en anstalt, ett häkte eller en transportsektion inom nationella transportenheten. Med kriminalvårdschef avses vid tillämpningen av bestämmelserna i dessa föreskrifter och allmänna råd även sektionschef vid nationella transportenheten. Med tilldelning av OC-spray avses att ett beslut fattas om att OC-spray ska utgöra en del av en särskilt namngiven persons standardutrustning. Med bärande av OC-spray avses att en person är fysiskt utrustad med, bär på eller på annat sätt hanterar OC-spray. Beslut 4 § Den kriminalvårdschef som ansvarar för ett verksamhetsställe fattar beslut om vilka tjänstemän vid verksamhetsstället som ska tilldelas OC-spray och om undantag från tjänstemans skyldighet att under tjänstgöring bära OC-spray. Denna beslutanderätt får inte delegeras vidare. Den kriminalvårdschef som ansvarar för ett verksamhetsställe fattar beslut om när tjänstemän som stadigvarande vistas klientnära ska få bära OC-spray enligt 6 § andra stycket. Denna beslutanderätt får inte delegeras vidare. (KVFS 2021:4) Tilldelning av OC-spray 5 § OC-spray får endast tilldelas tjänstemän som med godkänt resultat har genomgått utbildning enligt 7 § eller annan likvärdig utbildning. Bärande av OC-spray 6 § Om inget annat föreskrivs i denna paragraf ska en tjänsteman som tilldelats OC-spray bära denna som en del av sin utrustning. Under tid när en tjänsteman vistas klientnära ska OC-spray inte bäras. Om ett förhöjt säkerhetsläge föreligger får det fattas ett särskilt beslut om att OC-spray ska bäras även när tjänstemannen vistas klientnära. Sådana beslut ska vara tidsbegränsade och omprövas varje dag. Förbudet mot att bära OC-spray enligt andra stycket gäller inte för larmchefer och övriga som är utsedda att ingå i en larmstyrka. Förbudet gäller inte heller för personal som tjänstgör på avdelning med särskilt hög grad av övervakning eller kontroll samt på avdelningar avsedda för intagna som kräver särskilda resurser avseende säkerhet, omhändertagande eller kontroll. Det gäller inte heller för personal som transporterar klienter. Om särskilda skäl föreligger får det beslutas om undantag från skyldigheten att bära OC-spray. Under tid då OC-spray inte bärs av en tjänsteman ska den förvaras enligt bestämmelserna i 8 §. OC-spray får inte bäras utanför tjänstgöringstid. (KVFS 2021:4) Allmänna råd Med att vistas klientnära avses även bl.a. att en tjänsteman kortvarigt ersätter annan tjänsteman på en klientavdelning, t.ex. under en halv dag. Tjänstemän på avdelningar där intagna normalt vistas i sina bostadsrum, exempelvis avskildhets- och restriktionsavdelningar, vistas inte klientnära. Detsamma gäller nattpersonal samt promenadvakter som inte befinner sig på rastgården. Med förhöjt säkerhetsläge avses att säkerhetsläget bedöms avvika från den för den aktuella enhetens normaltillstånd på sådant sätt att det råder avsevärd risk för ordningsstörningar. Villkoren för att tilldelas OC-spray i 5 § gäller även i de situationer där beslut fattas om att en tjänsteman som vistas klientnära får bära OC-spray under en begränsad tid. Särskilda skäl för att besluta om undantag från skyldigheten att bära OC-spray kan föreligga i olika situationer, t.ex. när arbetsuppgifter, personliga omständigheter eller olämpligt agerande i tjänsten gör det olämpligt eller omotiverat att en tjänsteman bär OC-spray. (KVFS 2021:4) Utbildning 7 § Kriminalvården ska bedriva utbildning för tjänstemän om när och hur OCspray får användas. Utbildningen ska följa en fastställd kursplan och ledas av utsedda instruktörer. Kriminalvården ska i erforderlig utsträckning fortbilda tjänstemän i handhavande av OC-spray och kontrollera att de uppfyller de krav som ställs enligt den kursplan som anges i första stycket. Sådana fortbildningstillfällen ska hållas med ett intervall av som mest 24 månader och ska följa en fastställd kursplan. Allmänna råd Utöver vad som föreskrivs i 7 § andra stycket bör varje verksamhetsställe där OCspray får användas genomföra regelbundna fortbildningstillfällen där frågor om när och hur OC-spray bör användas utgör en del av fortbildningen. Sådana fortbildningstillfällen bör genomföras med tätare intervall än var tjugofjärde månad. Varje verksamhetsställe bör årligen genomföra sådana kontroller som avses i 7 § andra stycket. Förvaring 8 § OC-spray ska förvaras på ett betryggande sätt så att ingen obehörig kommer åt den eller den på något annat sätt går förlorad. OC-spray som inte bärs av en tjänsteman ska förvaras i Kriminalvårdens lokaler när det finns möjlighet till detta. OC-spray som bärs av tjänsteman under transport ska vid uppehåll i transporten förvaras enligt första stycket under den tid då tjänstemannen inte är i tjänst. Endast den kriminalvårdschef som ansvarar för verksamhetsstället eller en tjänsteman som denne har utsett samt personer som efter beslut enligt 4 § har tilldelats OC-spray får ha tillgång till ett förvaringsutrymme där OC-spray förvaras. Det ska ske en daglig inventering av sådan OC-spray som tilldelats tjänstemän. Allmänna råd OC-spray bör inte förvaras tillsammans med annat än säkerhetsutrustning. OC-spray som inte bärs av en tjänsteman bör förvaras i ett låst skåp. Om OCspray inte förvaras i säkerhetsskåp eller lika säkert förvaringsutrymme bör skåpet där OC-spray förvaras stå under ständig uppsyn. För att upprätthålla ständig uppsyn över skåp där OC-spray förvaras bör antingen personal befinna sig i rummet där skåpet finns eller så bör rummet övervakas genom kamerabevakning. För det fall en tjänsteman som inte är i tjänst inte kan förvara OC-sprayen vid det ordinarie verksamhetsstället bör den förvaras vid en annan anstalt eller häkte. Om förvaring i anstalt eller häkte inte är möjlig bör OC-spray som inte bärs av kriminalvårdstjänsteman förvaras i Kriminalvårdens transportfordon eller, om möjlighet finns, hos Polismyndigheten. Användande 9 § OC-spray får endast användas om uppgiften inte kan lösas på ett mindre ingripande sätt. Användning av OC-spray ska ske med hänsyn tagen till den smärta och det obehag som åtgärden innebär för den som utsätts för sprayen. OC-spray får aldrig användas som bestraffning, för att ge en reprimand eller för att statuera disciplinära exempel. I samband med utbildningsverksamhet eller annan liknande verksamhet får OCspray inte användas utan överinseende av instruktör. Allmänna råd Den vägledande principen i kriminalvårdsarbetet är att våld så långt som möjligt bör undvikas. Om våld måste användas får åtgärden inte medföra större skada eller olägenhet än vad som är nödvändigt för att en uppgift ska kunna fullgöras (proportionalitetsprincipen). Användande av OC-spray bör främst övervägas i situationer där det bedöms råda omedelbar fara för någons liv och hälsa eller risk för annan allvarlig skada på person eller egendom eller för annan allvarlig ordningsstörning. I bedömningen av om en handling är proportionerlig bör hänsyn bl.a. tas till den handlandes egenskaper (t.ex. kroppskrafter, erfarenhet och fysisk hälsa), motpartens motiv och egenskaper (t.ex. kroppskrafter, ålder och mental mognad, fysisk och mental hälsa samt om han eller hon är påverkad av alkohol, narkotika eller andra medicinska preparat) och allvarlighetsgraden i den situation som den handlande upplevde att han eller hon befann sig i. Skyldigheten enligt arbetsmiljölagstiftningen att tillförsäkra en god arbetsmiljö samt förebygga ohälsa och olycksfall bör särskilt beaktas i bedömningar av om en handling är proportionerlig. Avseende unga personer bör det särskilt beaktas den psykiska påfrestning, i relation till den särskilt utsatta situation som dessa personer befinner sig i, som det kan innebära att utsättas för OC-spray. Användande av OC-spray i fordon under färd kan medföra allvarliga risker ur trafiksäkerhetssynpunkt. OC-spray bör därför användas i fordon under färd endast om det föreligger fara i dröjsmål att inte vänta tills bilen har stannat. Rapportering, kontroll m.m. 10 § Säkerhetsavdelningen vid Kriminalvårdens huvudkontor ska utöva särskild kontroll över hur OC-spray används inom Kriminalvården. Säkerhetsavdelningen ska också göra en årlig sammanställning av all användning av OC-spray. Övriga bestämmelser 11 § Chefen för Kriminalvården kan besluta om undantag från dessa föreskrifter. ____________ Dessa föreskrifter och allmänna råd träder i kraft den 1 mars 2020. Genom författningen upphävs Kriminalvårdens föreskrifter och allmänna råd (KVFS 2009:7) om användning av pepparspray (OC-spray) i Kriminalvården.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemWe have no data indicating how many times the staff threatened violent inmate to use pepper spray. However, we follow up each use of pepper spray and evaluate the incident.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?-
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?-
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?No studies have been performed. Only evaluations. We unfortunately do not have any in English
As non-lethal weapons we use: pepper gas, telescopic truncheon and electric shock weapons.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?The telescopic truncheon and pepper gas have been in use all along, the electric shock weapon was introduced in 2018. The same non-lethal weapons are used in all Estonian prisons.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?In Estonian prisons we use pepper gas, containing 0,67% of synthetic pepper „Curds Police RSG 2000“
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?The regulation is in paragraphs 70¹ and 71 of the Imprisonment Act, which can be found in the following link: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/509082021003/consolide?inforce#para71b1
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemNo such statistics have been compiled. However, we can point out that in the last 15 years there has been no attacks on prison officers, where an officer has needed hospitalization. Although, there have been two conflicts between prisoners, which have ended in one party´s death. Conflicts mentioned above took place in cell, where were two prisoners and the conflicts were caused by a daily life entanglement. Conflicts took place in 2007 and 2011.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?Prison officers are equipped with non-lethal weapons on a daily basis.
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction? Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?No research has been conducted in Estonia on this subject, but we believe that the training provided to prison officers and the day-to-day readiness to use non-lethal weapons will prevent attacks on officers and help to prevent physical conflicts between prisoners.
CS- gaz OC-gaz. (pepper-spray) APS- telescope- batong. Long-club. The use is for high security psions, but in the lower security prisons the governors can assess the need in the prison due to the kind of inmates, number of staff, response-time for police etc. These items are in use in all high security prisons, and a few lower security prisons in our jurisdiction.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?The start using them: CS-gaz - many years ago . OC – gaz – many years ago.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?There are no personal defence spray. The OC- spray is allowed stored in the guardrooms in locked and sealed cabinets. No one can carry or use the CS or CO-gaz without the strictly need if a situation is occurring and a decision is made by superiors.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?The legal framework is regulated in the act relation to the Execution of sentences etc. Section 38. Use of coercive measures in prison The Norwegian Correctional Service may use a security cell, restraining bed or other approved coercive measure in order to: a) prevent a serious attack on or injury to a person, b) prevent the execution of serious threats or considerable damage to property, c) prevent serious riots or disturbances, d) prevent escape from prison during transportation to or from a destination, e) prevent unlawful intrusion into a prison, or f) secure access to a closed or barricaded room. The Norwegian Correctional Service shall only use coercive measures if circumstances make this strictly necessary, and less invasive measures have been unsuccessfully attempted or will clearly be inadequate. Coercive measures shall be used with care such that no person is caused unnecessary harm or suffering. Insofar as this is possible, a medical opinion shall be obtained and taken into account in considering whether a decision shall be made to use a security cell or a restraining bed. The Norwegian Correctional Service shall continually assess whether there are grounds for maintaining the measure. For inmates under the age of 18, coercive measures may only be used if this is absolutely necessary, and less invasive measures have been unsuccessfully attempted or will clearly be inadequate. Coercive measures shall be used with care such that no person is caused unnecessary harm or suffering. Insofar as this is possible, a medical opinion shall be obtained and taken into account in considering whether a decision shall be made to use a security cell or a restraining bed. Inmates under the age of 18 must have continual supervision. The Norwegian Correctional Service shall continually assess whether there are grounds for maintaining the measure.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemAll occasions in the prisons are to be reported to the Directorate. Each case is individually evaluated. There are few cases yearly in our agency.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff? Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?We pay a lot of attention to the effects of the dynamic security / inmate care - issues. The relational competence by our staff is high on these matters. The personal knowledge to each inmates is of great importance to be aware of and to prepare for negative tendencies directed towards a critical situation. We also pay a lot attention on the composition of inmates with other inmates. The cooperation between prisons is an essential factor here. We have to be honest and put trust in this strategy. We also try to be conscious on the principle of proportionality, and use the measures needed at each level of the steps of a developing violent or sharp situation. These kinds of human and organizational factors are reducing the risk of violence and harm between inmates as well as assaults to staff. We tend to keep this kind of policy, and we know that implementing a stricter policy is usually quite easy, but is also escalating the general tension in a prison facility.
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?No. Best practice and experiences from many years have been collected, edited and delivered to student at the University College of Norwegian Correctional Service (KRUS). The Directorate of Norwegian Correctional Service and its section of security is collecting and editing these issues on the national level.
The Danish Prison and Probation Service has access to use pepper spray in order to prevent violent attacks on staff or other inmates.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)?We started using pepper spray in 2011. Today it is possible for staff to carry pepper spray in all facilities.
Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?We use the same type of spray as the Danish Police. The type of spray is Sabre Defense.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?Yes, there is legal framework. There is legislation that regulates the use of force and pepper spray.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemNo, Danish Prison and Probation System does not have any valid documentation for the effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults. However, in a one-year trial period (in 2010) we asked the prisons to report the preventive effect. They had to report both cases where pepper spray had been used and cases where use had been warned. This study showed that there was a preventive effect in almost 50 percent of the cases.
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff?%
Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction?See above. There is unfortunately no report available.
Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?See above.
This content is only available to registered members of EuroPris.
This content is only available to registered members of EuroPris.
This content is only available to registered members of EuroPris.
SPS EXTENDABLE BATON DEPLOYMENT PROTOCOLS Policy Statement In February 2013 the Director of Operations formally agreed that the Extendable Baton Model No.TCHAL2PBB would be made available to operational uniformed staff within SPS. The Extendable Baton Model No. TCHAL2PBB will be issued to uniformed staff in Pay Bands C+ to E+ who work in an operational role. Protocols for deployment are detailed under the Deployment paragraph. The extendable baton is not classified as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and as such, it is not compulsory for staff to carry or use the baton. Baton Issue and Storage 1. All SPS uniformed operational staff will be issued with a new extendable baton on completion of approved SPS baton training. 2. Batons are deemed an offensive weapon under S1(4) of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953 and as an offensive weapon as described under section 47(4) of the Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act1995, a. as any article “made or adopted for use for causing injury to a person”. Accordingly, a baton- fixed or extendable, comes within that description. Under section 49C, it is an offence for any person to have with them in prison an offensive weapon (as described) or a bladed object unless they can show they were using them for work (amongst other things) as such their issue and deployment must be subject to control measures as defined by these protocols. 3. Extendable batons will be issued by serial number individually and staff will sign for receipt of the baton. Staff will be accountable for the safe storage of their baton on site in a secure locker. Staff will be required to hand in their original wooden or composite plastic stave prior to receipt of the extendable baton. If staff are unable to return their stave, they must submit the reasons for doing so in writing to the Head of Operations at their establishment. 4. An extendable baton issue register will be maintained by the issuing establishment and subject to audit on an annual basis. Establishment Heads of Operations will ensure internal baton stock checks are completed annually for audit purposes. 5. Batons can only be removed from an SPS site if on official SPS duty in contact with prisoners or with written permission from the Head of Operations or equivalent senior manager. Staff on detached duty will require similar written permission to take their baton from their parent establishment to their temporary establishment where secure storage facilities will have to be provided. 6. All staff will be required to account for their extendable baton annually to the Head of Operations. Staff unable to account for their extendable baton may be subject to a Code of Conduct investigation. 7. On transfer or promotion, staff will be required to hand in their baton back to the issuing establishment and will receive a baton at their transferred location, if applicable. 8. Any batons damaged or requiring exchange will be accompanied by a written submission by the Officer to the Head of Operations with the reasons for damage. Baton Training 1. Baton training will be undertaken by all SPS uniformed operational staff annually to demonstrate and maintain competence. Training records will be maintained by the relevant establishment. 2. Staff will not have an extendable baton issued until approved training has been completed. 3. Baton training will be undertaken by SPS College approved extendable baton instructors licensed to provide training. 4. Staff failing to maintain competence in baton training will have the extendable baton withdrawn from use until competence has been gained. Deployment – National Requirements 1. Staff wear the extendable baton concealed in a uniform trouser or skirt pocket only when they are on rostered SPS duty within an operational establishment. Extendable batons cannot be worn on display on a belt under any circumstances. 2. In all circumstances where staff draw and extend their baton whilst on duty, a Use of Force form will be completed on every occasion. This includes when the baton is drawn and when it is drawn and used on any person. Staff are required to report the circumstances to their line manager, fill out the form and submit to the Head of Operations as soon as practicable after the deployment incident occurs. Head of Operations in establishments are required to maintain a record of all Use of Force forms in a register available for audit purposes. Heads of Operations will submit statistics on use of force forms annually to the National Intelligence Bureau.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)? Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?Pelargonic Acid Vanillyamide (PAVA) Incapacitant Spray • Effective incident management in prisons prioritises safety of life, the maintenance of safe custody and the reinstatement of good order. Serious incidents, by definition, represent a loss of control. Incident Command Team personnel are trained and assessed as competent in role to operate within this environment and bring incidents to a conclusion with the minimum use of force and maximum efficiency and effectiveness. • Incident management is classified into 3 levels with level 1 representing minor incidents of a routine nature which can be managed by current arrangements to those of a more serious nature which require a local command structure to be set up; up to those deemed most serious at level 3 which demand that a national incident command structure be deployed. • PAVA was introduced to enhance the capability of ending incidents classed at level 3 in a manner that would provide a degree of safety for both prisoner and staff involved and crucially, minimise scope for damage to prison accommodation. • PAVA was first trialled by Sussex Police force in 2000 and subsequently introduced to Scottish prisons in 2007. PAVA is also available as a tactical option by colleagues in HMPPS and NIPS. • SPS completed reviews of their PAVA policy, operational instructions and training in 2011 and 2013.
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s? Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison system If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff? Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction? Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?This content is only available to registered members of EuroPris.
Only the standard baton can be used in specific circumstances. This is allowed and used in all prisons.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)? Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?The use of personal defence sprays by prison officers is prohibited in the Belgian prisons
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?Since the use of non-lethal weapons like tasers and defence sprays is prohibited there is no further legal framework.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemIn view of the answers above, this question does not apply
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff? Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction? Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?Only the standard baton can be used in specific circumstances. This is allowed and used in all prisons.
When did you started to use them (approximate date)? Among these non-lethal weapons, are personal defense sprays included? Could you please describe which type/s and model/s you use?The use of personal defence sprays by prison officers is prohibited in the Belgian prisons
Is there any legal framework that regulates their use? Could you please provide a copy of this legal instrument/s?Since the use of non-lethal weapons like tasers and defence sprays is prohibited there is no further legal framework.
Do you have data regarding their effectiveness in reducing the number of assaults or injuries suffered by prison officers and inmates before and after de introduction of non-lethal weapons in your prison systemIn view of the answers above, this question does not apply
If your prison administration does not use non-lethal weapons, is there any plan to implement them as a means available to prison officers or security staff? Which are the means or measures that have proven to be efficient to reduce and/or prevent assaults to prison staff in your jurisdiction? Has any study been conducted about this subject in your jurisdiction?This content is only available to registered members of EuroPris.