Use of Restraints and Handcuffing
Handcuffing is a serious action. It limits a person’s movement and freedom. As a security officer, you may need to use restraints to control a situation. But it must be done safely, lawfully, and only when allowed by your site policy and local law.
When to Use Handcuffs
Security guards are not police. You can’t arrest someone unless your site policy and local law allow it. Use handcuffs only when:
- You are trained and authorized to use them.
- You need to control a person who is a threat to themselves or others.
- Detaining a person for law enforcement, if allowed.
Never use handcuffs to punish, intimidate, or threaten someone. Always explain why you are detaining the person if safe to do so.
Before You Handcuff
Think safety first. Ask yourself:
- Is the person a threat?
- Am I trained and allowed to handcuff here?
- Do I have backup?
- Can I control the person safely?
Use your words first. Try to calm the person. Only go hands-on if needed and safe.
How to Handcuff Safely
- Approach from behind if possible. Keep a safe stance.
- Tell the person what you’re doing. Example: “I’m going to handcuff you now for safety.”
- Ask them to place their hands behind their back, palms out, thumbs up.
- Apply one cuff at a time. Keep control of their arm.
- Double-lock the cuffs to prevent them from tightening.
- Check for tightness. You should be able to slide a fingertip between the cuff and wrist.
Stay alert. Watch for signs of medical distress or resistance.
After the Person is Cuffed
- Search the person only if trained and allowed.
- Never leave a cuffed person alone.
- Monitor them for signs of distress like trouble breathing or pain.
- Call law enforcement if needed. Follow your site’s reporting rules.
If the person complains of injury or health issues, get help right away. Document everything.
Shift Checklist: Carrying and Using Restraints
- ✔ Are your handcuffs in good working order?
- ✔ Do you have your handcuff key?
- ✔ Do you know your site’s policy on restraints?
- ✔ Are you trained and certified in handcuffing?
- ✔ Did you inspect your gear before shift?
Quick Scenario: Non-Compliant Shoplifter
You’re working retail security. A shoplifter becomes aggressive when stopped. You ask them to stay, but they try to walk away. You call for backup and calmly tell the person they are being detained. They refuse to stop and raise their voice.
You assess the threat. You are trained and allowed to use handcuffs. With another officer present, you ask the person to place their hands behind their back. They resist slightly but then comply. You handcuff them, double-lock, and monitor their condition until police arrive.
Takeaway: Stay calm. Follow your training. Use restraints only when needed and allowed.
3 Questions Guards Often Ask
1. Can I handcuff someone resisting me?
If you are trained and it’s allowed by site policy and local law, yes—but only when it’s necessary to control a threat. Always use the least force needed.
2. What happens if I handcuff too tight?
Too-tight cuffs can injure someone. Always check tightness and double-lock. Watch for signs of pain or poor circulation.
3. What if the person has a medical issue?
If someone shows signs of distress, get help right away. Call EMS or law enforcement. Document what you saw and what you did.
Final Tips
- Only carry handcuffs if your site allows it.
- Use clear commands and stay calm.
- Always follow your training, site policy, and local law.
- Document every use of force or restraint in detail.
Action to Take: Review your site’s restraint policy before your next shift. Practice safe cuffing steps with a partner during training.
