Policy - Use Of Force

Section: Human Resource Policies  
Policy Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources  
Policy Name: Use of Force Policy   
Origination Date: June 2024 

Purpose
This policy outlines gate guards' appropriate and responsible use of force to protect individuals, property, and assets on Ministry premises. It provides a structured approach to using force, ensuring that it is applied proportionally and with respect for the safety and rights of everyone involved. The policy is designed to guide gate guards in making decisions during situations requiring force, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and minimal force necessary to address threats.

Scope
This policy applies to all gate guards the Ministry employs. It covers the circumstances under which force may be used, the permissible types, and the principles guiding the use of force, including the use of force continuum. The policy provides guidelines for detaining trespassers, subduing aggressive individuals, preventing theft or vandalism, protecting oneself or others, and responding to active threats. 

Definition
Force: An aspect of physical security that refers to the authorized application of physical coercion or restraint by security personnel to protect individuals, property, or assets from harm or unauthorized access.
Use of Force Continuum: The use of force continuum is a concept often used to describe the different levels or steps of force authorized individuals such as gate guards, security guards, and other security personnel can employ. The continuum provides a framework for escalating or de-escalating the level of force based on the situation.

Can Gate Guards Use Force?
Both armed and unarmed guards can use force if the situation calls for it. The level of force used should be proportional to the threat or risk faced. It should be employed with careful consideration for the safety and rights of everyone involved. Common scenarios where force may be necessary include detaining trespassers, restraining individuals who threaten themselves or others, or protecting property from damage or theft.

Examples
Detaining Trespassers
- The gate guards will use reasonable force to detain trespassers and hand them over to the strikers until law enforcement arrives.

Subduing Aggressive Individuals
- Gate guards, with the help of a striker, will use force to restrain the individual.

Preventing Theft or Vandalism
- Use force to intervene and prevent the crime from occurring with physical restraint and alerting the striker to apprehend until law enforcement arrives. 

Protecting Themselves or Others
- Gate guards may use force to defend themselves or others from imminent danger.

Breaking Up Physical Quarrels 
- Intervene in fights or quarrels on the premises, using force to separate and control the individuals involved until the situation is resolved or law enforcement arrives.

Responding to Active Threats
- If an armed intruder or active shooter exists, gate guards may need force to neutralize the threat. Immediately alert the Strikers.

Use of Force Continuum
Presence
- The presence of a gate guard or a striker is enough to deter potential threats. A visible security presence serves as a deterrent without needing further action. Gate guards need to patrol the environment; this will enable them to spot danger early and discourage fraudulent activities around the campus and the ministry’s property.

Verbal Commands
- Verbal commands will gain compliance or de-escalate a situation. Clear and assertive communication can resolve conflicts without physical intervention.

Empty Hand Control
- Restraint holds, joint locks, or escorting individuals from the scene are used when verbal commands aren't followed.

Non-Lethal Force
- Used to subdue or control a subject without causing permanent injury. Include pepper spray and batons.

Lethal Force
As a last resort, gate guards may use lethal force, like firearms, when faced with an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to themselves or others. It is highly regulated and requires a significant escalation of the threat level.

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This policy will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly. 

For any questions or further assistance regarding this policy, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.