Physical Intervention Flashcards
6 cards from real SIA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Physical Intervention flashcards as text
What is 'reasonable force' in legal terms?
Answer: The minimum force necessary to achieve a lawful objective
Reasonable force is the minimum level necessary. Courts consider what a reasonable person would have done in the same circumstances.
Under what legislation does the right to use reasonable force exist?
Answer: Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967
Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967 provides the legal basis for using reasonable force to prevent crime.
What is 'pre-emptive force' and when might it be justified?
Answer: Striking first when you genuinely believe an attack is imminent and unavoidable
Pre-emptive force may be lawful if you genuinely and honestly believe an attack is imminent. However, you must be able to justify your belief objectively.
How many people should ideally be involved in restraining a person?
Answer: At least three — one per limb area plus a team leader to monitor
A minimum of three people is recommended: one for upper body, one for lower body, and a team leader to monitor breathing and coordinate. This reduces risk of positional asphyxia.
What is 'excited delirium' and why is it dangerous during restraint?
Answer: A medical emergency involving extreme agitation, hyperthermia, and risk of sudden death
Excited delirium involves extreme agitation, insensitivity to pain, elevated body temperature, and can cause sudden cardiac arrest. Physical restraint increases the danger significantly.
What should you do if a restrained person says they cannot breathe?
Answer: Immediately reassess the restraint position and ensure their airway is clear
NEVER ignore complaints about breathing. Immediately adjust the restraint position, ensure the airway is clear, and call for medical assistance. Deaths have occurred when breathing complaints were ignored.