Use of Conductive Energy Weapons / TASER
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NOTICE: This is a policy proposal and is still in the drafting stage. |
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use of conductive energy weapons (CEWs), also known as TASERs, by employees of Tech Stop. The policy is designed to ensure that employees use CEWs only when necessary and that they use them in a safe and effective manner.
Policy
Employees may only use CEWs in the following situations:
- To effect a lawful arrest or detention
- To overcome resistance or prevent escape
- To prevent the commission of a public offense
- To defend others or in self-defense
- To gain compliance with a lawful order
Employees shall avoid use of CEWs against:
- Pregnant women
- Persons who are obviously under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Persons who are handcuffed or otherwise restrained
- Persons who are in a prone position
- Persons who are known to have a heart condition or other medical condition that could be aggravated by the use of a CEW
Employees shall use the minimum amount of force necessary to achieve the desired outcome. Employees shall avoid deploying the CEW into sensitive areas of the body, such as the head, neck, chest, or groin. Employees shall cease using the CEW as soon as the person is subdued or the threat is eliminated.
Training
Employees shall receive annual training on the use of CEWs. The training shall cover the following topics:
- The legal standards for the use of CEWs
- The different types of CEWs
- The techniques for using CEWs safely and effectively
- The procedures for reporting incidents involving the use of CEWs
- The physiological effects of CEWs
- The signs and symptoms of CEW misuse
Reporting Requirements
Employees shall report all incidents involving the use of CEWs to their supervisor as soon as possible. The supervisor shall investigate the incident and determine whether the use of a CEW was justified. If the use of a CEW was not justified, the supervisor shall take appropriate disciplinary action.
Documentation
Employees shall document all incidents involving the use of CEWs. The documentation shall include:
- The date, time, and location of the incident
- The name of the employee involved
- The name of the person against whom a CEW was used
- A description of the incident
- The type of CEW used
- The reason for using the CEW
- The duration of the CEW exposure
- The outcome of the incident
- Any injuries sustained as a result of the CEW exposure
Review
This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure that it is consistent with applicable law and to reflect any changes in law or practice.
Conclusion
This policy is intended to provide employees with clear guidelines for the use of CEWs. Employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.