Physical Intervention: Guidelines & When It's Necessary

Physical intervention is a last resort when de-escalation fails and safety is immediately threatened. It must be safe, proportionate, and minimal.

Acceptable situations:

• Self-defense or defense of others from imminent harm.
• Restraining someone posing immediate serious physical risk to self/others.
• Preventing escape from lawful custody with community risk.
• Protecting vulnerable persons (children, disabled) who cannot protect themselves.
• Breaking up physical fights.
• Preventing serious crimes or effecting lawful arrest.
• Enforcing lawful orders (police/security).
• Medical necessity (unresponsive, intoxicated, emergency care).
• Transport for mental health/medical assessment when dangerous.
• Crisis intervention for mental health emergencies.

Always respect human rights, avoid discrimination, follow laws/policies, and document thoroughly.