BCRC 21-01 Mod 13 Unit 6 OC Spray

Lachrymator

The chemical classification for CN due to its effect on the lachrymal gland causing excessive secretion of tears.

Propellant (definition)

The gas or liquid, which propels the carrier and agent to the target; Nitrogen, compressed air (360 projector), 1234ze

Carrier (definitino)

The ingredient(s) that carries the OC from the projector to the target.

Capsaicin

The most prevalent of the 7 compounds found within the Capasaicinoids and considered to be the ACTIVE ingredient in OC. These compounds can be measured in a laboratory using a method of analysis called High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).

Characteristics of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Chemical Classification:

inflammatory - A substance, which causes localized heat, redness, swelling, & pain to all contaminated skin/tissues.

Characteristics of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Capsaicin:

is a vasodilator. Its inflammatory properties are a result of dilating blood vessels in the affected area.

Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

is an inflammatory chemical agent that causes a burning sensation to the affected areas. Faster reaction rate that CN or CS. Derived from natural sources rather than chemicals. Not as dangerous. Most common type of personal defense spray carried by law enforcement agencies.

When do you not use OC on a subject

•Expressing disagreement •Significantly delaying or obstructing your lawful duty. •Peacefully and stop resisting •Attacker presents knife or firearm

What are the benefits of OC in law enforcement

•Minimizes physical contact •Reduces the need of higher level of force •Effective tool for crown control

Variables that affect UOF

•Officer/Subject size •Gender •Environmental conditions •Reaction time

Deployment caution: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

A condition that generally occurs in psychiatric patients and presents similar characteristics to ED. Symptoms: hypothermia, fluctuating levels of consciousness, and hyptonicity(limpness) of skeletal muscles.

COR .08.07 UOF: Show of force

A demonstration of the current ability to use force, such as an Officer in full riot gear, an armed officer, the massing of tactical squads in full riot formations providing a single point of entrance or exit.

COR .08.07 UOF: Reasonable UOF

A level of force NECESSARY to resolve the situation built on the FACTS KNOWN or PERCEIVED by a correctional staff member AT THE TIME THE FORCE WAS USED.

Solvents (definition)

A liquid substance capable of dissolving other substances.

Scoville Heat Units

A measure of heat used by the American Spice Trade Association - Analytical Methods 21.0.

Capsaicinoids

A number of compounds, naturally occurring within the fats, oils, and waxes of the pepper plant. The amount of these compounds determines the pungency of the pepper.

Deployment caution: Narcotic-Induced excited delirium

An acute mental disorder characterized by impaired thinking, disorientation, visual hallucinations and illusions. Aggressive behavior, paranoia, panic, violence towards others, unexpected physical strength, sudden tranquility.

Contamination Level 3

An area contaminated by the chemical used. Contamination is the easiest to decontaminate; usually only requiring removal from the area and exposure to fresh air.

Psychological effect of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC):

Anxiety (PRIMARY EFFECT) Possible mental disorientation and confusion.

COR .08.07 UOF: Force

Any bodily impact, restraint, or confinement or the threat thereof.

Spray pattern: Z pattern

Apply spray to upper edge of eyebrows (above eyebrows), then down to the nose and then back across the mouth.

Color codes of chemical agents Orthochlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS)

Blue

Use of force policy

COR .08.07

Chemical Weapons policy

COR .08.33

Formula of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Capsicum is mixed with a propellant consisting of carbon dioxide, nitrogen or insobutane, water, vegetable oil or alcohol based solutions.

(REMS) Respiratory

Causes uncontrollable coughing and gasping for breath.

Irritant

Chemical classification for CS due to its burning sensation to the skin, especially moist areas, like the eyes and nasal passages.

Title 42, U.S.C section 1983

Civil rights violation. If an officer uses force not allowed by law or uses more force than allowed to use by law, may be prosecuted, sued, and/or fired.

Foams

Compromised of powerful fast-acting foaming surfactant that coats the face upon contact, Designed for climate - controlled environments such as courtrooms, hospitals, schools and jails facilities, Spray directly into face.

Deployment caution: Hydraulic needle effect

Consequence of the OC particulate penetrating the soft tissue of the eye.

UOF OC spray

Correlates to greater than hands-on techniques/control holds an is considered to be a force option less than the use of hard intermediate weapons (Baton).

COR .08.07 UOF: Great bodily injury

Creates a high probability of death; which causes serious permanent disfigurement; which causes a permanent or protracted loss; or impairs the function of any body member or organ.

(REMS) Skin

Creates an intense burning sensation of the skin.

What are situations to determine if OC spray is an appropriate force option:

Defend yourself or another against physical attack, To control a subject who exhibits aggressive behavior with the potential for officer injury if physical control is employed.

Title 18, section 242

Deprivation of rights under color of law. Prohibits an officer acting under color of law from violating inmate's civil rights. When an officer acts or purports to act in the performance of offcial duties under any law, ordinance, or regulation, he/she is acting under color of law.

What information is required on a UOF Report

Detailed accounting of the events leading to the use of chemical agents, Precise description of the incident and the reasons for employing the chemical agents, Description of the chemical agent used, and the manner which they were used. Description of injuries suffered by staff/offender(s), if any, and treatment given or medical procedures followed.

Contamination Level 1

Direct contact to the facial area - spraying subject directly in the face. Will require the most decontamination time.

Cone

Disperses OC in a wide pattern making it easier to acquire the target. Spray is completely filled with microscopic droplets causing every area around the subject's eyes, nose and face to be covered.

Decontamination procedure for Nose

Have them breath normally, Blow nose remove discharge, Nose drop will help if discomfort is severe.

Decontamination procedure for Skin:

Have them sit and remain quiet to reduce sweating, Expose affected area to the air, Flush with clearwater for at least 10 minutes.

Case Law dealing with UOF

Hudson V McMillian, 503 U.S. 1 (1992)

Deployment caution:

Hydraulic needle effect, Positional asphyxia, Risk factors, Special attention and consideration for medical emergencies, Excited delirium, Narcotic-induced excited delirium, Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

The factors that determine the heat of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Is measured by Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Measurement of heat presented in a pepper. SHU number indicates the amount of capsaicin that is present in a given solution.

List the acronym REMS

Respiratory Eyes Motor Control Skin

Nomenclature of Aerosol Personal Defense Spray

Safety Cover, Actuator, Cap, Valve, Propellant, Canister, Formula (Active&Inert)

Spray pattern: T pattern

Spray in a isolated sweeping motion from the nose to the mouth, diving the head in half.

Spray pattern: Back and forth

Spray in a sweeping motion from ear to ear concentrating on the eyes.

Spray pattern: Circle

Spray in a tight circular motion concentrating on the facial area. Should start just above the eyes.

Decontamination (p259)

Standard of care should take place as soon as subject is under control. Expose to fresh air, flushed with water, Try to calm the subject and monitor him/her for signs of distress.

How long should the burst of spray last?

.5 - 1 second.

How to properly dispose of OC spray

A canister that is emptied, may be disposed of in the same manner as any other food-related aerosol.

List six steps in the application of OC

1. Announce/warn 2. Spray 3. Move 4. Command/communication 5. Evaluate 6. Control

Two primary Physiological effects of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC):

1. Involuntary closure of the eyes (blepharospasm) 2. Burning sensation in the upper respiratory tract and to the exposed skin.

What are the 3 chemical classifications

1. Lachrymator (CN) 2. Irritant (CS) 3. Inflammatory (OC)

The 4 most common delivery systems

1. Mist 2. Fog 3. Stream 4. Foam

List the common delivery systems for OC

1. Mist 2. Fog 3. Stream 4. Gel 5. Foam

How to properly Draw Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

1. Officers should assume an appropriate defensive stands and continue with verbal commands. 2. Fingers of the drawing hand should be extended and firmly gripping the aerosol dispenser. 3. Place thumb on the actuator (preferred method) 4. Spray the facial area, specifically the eyes, delivering one half to one-second burst. 5. Once the OC aerosol spray has been dispensed, the officer must move to avoid being contaminated by the spray and maintain direct supervision of the inmate(s). 6. Allow the OC aerosol spray to work while providing verbal commands to the inmate. Ex: lay face down with arms spread. 7. Evaluate the response of the inmate(s); if doesn't comply or submit to restraints, a second two-burst is authorized. After a second assessment, or if the inmate(s) hasn't complied with staff commands, alternative methods to control the situation may be pursued.

The 3 types of stances when holding OC spray

1. Two-hand 2. One-hand 3. Carry/front position

2 types of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

1. Water based -means that water is used as the primary mixing agent. 2. Oil based -means that different chemicals are used as the mixing agents.

The percentage The Department issues of Capasicinoids per volume.

1.3%

History of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

1930: US Military devloped an OC compound, but found no effective method of delivery suitable for military use. 1960: OC spray was developed at the University of Georgia and marketed as a Halt Repellent and carried by postal workers in .35% (by vol.) strength. 1974: The first commercial OC product for law enforcement was developed in the garage of a Florida home. 1987: The Firearms Training Unit of the FBI began a study of OC with them intention of supplementing their CN/CS munitions. It concluded with the adoption of OC for use by their special agents in Jan 1990.

When was OC spray a common item used by Law enforcement

1990

Effectiveness of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

1997 National Institute for Justice (NIJ) research found; successfully incapacitated humans in 90% of the confrontations. Assaults on officers declined. UOF complaints decreased by 53% April 2003 NIJ - "The Effectiveness and Safety of Pepper Spray", found injuries to both officers and suspects as well as complaints of excessive force declined after OC was introduced.

Deployment caution: Positional Asphyxia

A body position which obstructs the restrained persons airway or interferes with the muscular or mechanical components of respiration and person cannot get enough oxygen (hypoxia).

The first recorded use of pepper as a weapon?

2000 BC during wars between India & China

Emulsifier (definition)

A substance that blends a mixture of mutually insoluble liquids in which one bods two or more liquids together.

What is the purpose of color coding on chemical agents?

Distinguish between the type of chemical agents in canister.

What are the types of holds common to drawing OC

Dominant hold, non-dominant hold, with one or two hands.

Title 18, Section 241

Duty to Act - A non-supervisory officer has an affirmative duty to intervene to stop officers and/or supervisors who are engaging in excessive force in their presence.

Environmental awareness of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Elevated positions. Traffic concerns. Innocent bystanders.

Special attention and considerations when applying OC spray.

Emotional or physical stress can induce a heart attack/asthma attack. Asthma can turn to bronchial attack, Avoid spraying pregnant females, Avoid spraying children under the age of 10, Avoid spraying elderly, Avoid spraying subjects who are breathing rapidly, heavy sweating, who have pale ashen skin or colorless skin.

Characteristics of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Chemical Makeup:

Essence of Cayenne or Chili Peppers that form a heavy dark red liquid.

Primary targeted areas for direct application:

Eyes, nose, and mouth.

(REMS) Eyes

Forces the eyes to involuntarily close (blepharospasm)

Deployment caution: Special attention and consideration for medical emergencies

Impaired by drugs and or alcohol, Avoid spraying pregnant females, Avoid spraying children under the age of 10/elderly, Avoid spraying subjects who are breathing rapidly, heavy sweating, who have pale ashen skin or colorless skin.

UOF justification factors (reasonable)

In self-defense, To protect a third person, To restore or maintain jail/prison security, order, control, and discipline, To prevent the commission of a forcible felony, To protect property, To protect or rescue a hostage, To prevent an escape, To prevent self-inflicted injuries or suicides.

Reliability-Viability of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Increased failure rates on subjects under influence of drugs/alcohol or mentally disturbed. Several deaths associated with its use. Most effective above 72 degrees. Vapor rate: low melting point 138 degrees, cross-contamination extremely high.

Contamination Level 2

Indirect or secondary contact to chemical used. Result of attempting to control or physically touch another person or item which has had a Level 1 contamination.

COR .08.07 UOF: Excessive UOF

Is physical force used to punish, discipline or retaliate against an inmate. Using for where NO force is necessary to control the situation. A type/amount of force BEYOND that which is reasonably necessary to control the situation and achieve the correctional objectives or the use of force after IT IS NO LONGER NEEDED.

Vasodilatation

Its inflammatory properties are a result of dilating blood vessels in the affected area.

Decontamination procedure for Eyes:

Keep eyes open facing wind, Wash out with cool water.

How to properly carry Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Keep in a location that is accessible when needed, minimize the chance of unintentional discharge, & retention: if a suspect were to attempt to remove the aerosol projector from its holder, it should be position that lends itself retention techniques.

The factors that determine the pungency of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC):

Know both SHU rating and the solution percentage.

What colors distinguish OC and CS respectively

OC - Orange CS - Blue

What level is OC considered

Level 3

Why do officers wait before making physical contact with the offender?

May also be exposed to the airborne agent and secondary cross-contamination.

The solution is known as

Miscella

How to properly apply Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Officer deploying the spray should always announce "OC", "Spray", or other verbal warning to allow other officers to disengage from subject. Strong hand to draw OC, Holding OC spray level of your ear, 15 - 20 inches from your face, Have thumb on trigger while aiming dispenser nozzle towards subjects face.

Explain de-escalation?

Officers attempt to "stabilize" an encounter so that more time, options, and resources are available for incident resolution. To gain compliance/cooperation when feasible, and to lower the likelihood of the UOF. Giving subject opportunity to comply with verbal orders.

Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) (definition)

Oil and a resin extracted from the capsicum

difference between Water and oil based Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) during Decontamination

Oil based is more difficult due to the chemicals sticking or clinging to the skin. Usually longer to decontaminate and recover after being sprayed vs. water based OC.

Characteristics of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Color code:

Orange

Color codes of chemical agents Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Orange

Deployment caution: Excited delirium

Pain tolerance, Superhuman strength, Rapid breathing, Lack of fatigue, Profuse sweating, Male subject.

Decontamination procedure for Chest:

Person(s) should relax stay calm, Reassuring the person will help to relieve discomfort and prevent panic.

COR .08.07 UOF: Bodily injury

Physical injury, or any impairment of physical condition.

Factors that could influence results of OC:

Poorly placed discharge where OC doesn't make contact with subjects face. Subjects mindset or past experience with chemical agents. Subjects drug use, psychosis, or a high pain tolerance.

Deployment caution: Risk factors

Position during restraint, Prolonged struggle/agitated delirium syndrome, Drug or alcohol intoxication, Mania, Obesity, Respiratory syndromes (asthma/bronchitis) Cardiovascular disorder

Elements of properly writing UOF Report

Pre-force information, Approach considerations, Tactical deployment, Tactical evaluation, Level of resistance, Early warning signs, Special circumstances, During force objectives, Post force level of resistance.

OC application Defensive position:

Reactionary gap 6-10ft Widened ft stance Weapon side back Move after applying Proper verbal commands Control & handcuff

Color codes of chemical agents Chloroacetophenone (CN)

Red

Solvents are added to the ground peppers to?

Remove the natural oil, fats and waxes (Capsaicinoids).

How to properly store OC spray

Store in a cool and dry secured storage place with good ventilation and out of direct sun. Temperatures should never exceed 120 degrees F.

Strength & Weakness of Stream delivery system

Strength: Allows you to select an individual in a crown with greater accuracy, Greater standoff distance, Significantly reduced cross-contamination, Least affected by wind/rain. Weakness: Target specific - must be delivered to eyes, nose and mouth, Greater splash back potential at close range, Less respiratory effect.

Strength & Weakness of Foams delivery system

Strength: Better surface adhesion, Reduced cross-contamination, Foam sprays cause virtually no respiratory effects. Weakness: Very limited range, Virtually no respiratory, Some throwback & slip potential exists, Highly affected by cross-winds, Less stand-off distances, Foam can be slippery on certain surfaces.

Strength & Weakness of MIST delivery system

Strength: Doesn't require accuracy aiming in order to affect desired target areas. Extreme effects eyes, respiratory system and exposed skin, dramatic cough reaction and decontaminates fast in fresh air. Weakness: Cross-contamination due to scattering effect. more likely to wash out as the distance to target increases or wind increases.

Strengths & Weakness of Cone delivery system

Strength: Primarily affects the respiratory system. Ideal for affecting crowds, Well suited for area contamination. Weakness: Highest degree of cross-contamination, Grossly affected by environmental factors like wind & ventilation.

Strength & Weakness FOG delivery system

Strength: Releases a much greater volume of product with every application. Utilized at greater distances and to distribute a large quantity of spray. For crowd control, outdoor/area applications that require a high volume of spray such as vehicle/cell extractions. Weakness: Contamination of others is more likley. Larger than other units carried on belt of most officers.

(REMS) Motor control

Temporary loss of muscle control or coordination.

Produced by the Capsicum genus of plants from:

The nightshade family (solanacae).

Rhinorrhea

The secretion of excessive amounts of mucous from the noise.

Micro-pulverized

The state of a solid agent pulverized into small particles.

Texture and color of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)

Thick, oily and reddish.

Why is it necessary for officers to read canister labels for contents?

To know if it's flammable or not; to know what chemical agent is being used for a certain situation.

Standards of UOF established by:

US supreme court case law - 8th amendment, 9th Circuit Case Law, Federal law, HRS.

Blepharospasm

Uncontrolled blinking and close of the eyes cause by an involuntary contraction of the eyelid.

COR .08.07 UOF: Planned UOF

Where time and circumstances allow for consultation with, and approval by a supervisor or higher-ranking staff and where there is some opportunity to plan the actual UOF.

COR .08.07 UOF: Reactive UOF

Where time and circumstances don't permit consultation, planning or approval by higher-ranking staff.

Factors that may affect the use of OC spray

Wind, rain, temperature, distance, and proximity of others.

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

aka High-performance liquid chromatography is chromatographic method that is used to separate a mixture of compounds in analytical chemistry and biochemistry so as to identify, quantify or purify the individual components of the mixture.