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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare to use handcuffs.
   • Review workplace procedures and policies including WHS to ensure compliance with legal rights and responsibilities when using handcuffs for security work.
   • Check handcuffs to ensure correct operation and report malfunctions.
   • Select and use PPE to meet WHS requirements.
2. Assess need to use handcuffs
   • Assess need to use handcuffs against known information and potential and existing risks and threats.
   • Monitor and observe movement and actions of subject and use approach that allows a safe defensive distance.
   • Adjust response to minimise force and prevent continued aggressive behaviour.
3. Apply handcuffs with sensitivity to subject’s needs.
   • Use interpersonal techniques to exchange information with the subject, negotiate to defuse conflict and aggression, and warn of intention to use handcuffs.
   • Identify situations requiring assistance and use communication equipment to seek support from relevant persons.
   • Apply handcuffs using appropriate pressure, and minimising physical contact, and humiliation or indignity suffered by the subject.
   • Check that handcuffs are secure after application, and can be removed in the event of an emergency.
4. Direct and detain subject.
   • Direct subject to a seated or standing position that maximises control and opportunities for detention, and ensures their wellbeing.
   • Monitor subject to ensure their safety and wellbeing, and ascertain their intention to comply with instructions.
   • Give clear and succinct spoken warnings and directions to indicate intention to remove handcuffs, and maintain control of detained subject.
5. Finalise and evaluate response.
   • Review and evaluate effectiveness of response using handcuffs against incident circumstances and observations, in consultation with relevant persons.
   • Identify improvements to future security response procedures where subjects are restrained using handcuffs.
   • Inspect condition of handcuffs and report identified faults.
   • Complete and securely maintain workplace documentation in accordance with workplace requirements.
   • Recognise effects of stress and manage own well-being using stress management techniques.