Policy Text
SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT
CHEMICAL AGENTS MANUAL
RM 580.07
SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT
CHEMICAL AGENTS MANUAL
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2-7-22
A. CHEMICAL AGENT TRAINING
1. With the exception of individual aerosol canisters, only those supervisors
trained in the use and deployment of chemical agents shall direct or
participate in the decision to use chemical agents.
2. The training shall consist of classroom and field training with chemical agents
using departmentally approved lesson plans and instructors.
B. CHEMICAL AGENT OPTIONS
1. The active ingredient in each of these chemical munitions (grenades or
frangible projectiles) is CS or OC. Methods of deployment include handthrown
and 40mm launched. CS and OC are carried into the environment as micro-
pulverized solid (powder), liquid, or burning pellets (smoke). Some of these
projectiles and grenades will cause fires. Each projectile and grenade shall be
discussed in the following pages. The carrying agent and methods of
introduction shall also be cove red. These munitions shall only be deployed
by officers trained in their use.
2. CS (Ortho Chlorobenzalmalononitrile)
a. Color code Blue.
b. Reaction time of 3 -7 seconds and is effective for approximately one
half-hour.
c. When deployed there is a high likelihood officers may experience
some level of exposure.
d. Can cause the following physiological and respiratory effects:
(1) excessive tearing.
(2) excessive mucous discharge.
(3) involuntary closure of the eyes.
(4) shortness of breath.
(5) feeling suffocated.
(6) coughing, sneezing, and burning sensation through
the respiratory tract.
e. Extreme exposures may result in, nausea, vomiting, and
blistering of the skin.
f. Some failures may occur with:
(1) subjects under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
(2) subjects with mental disorders.
(3) animals.
3. OC (Oleoresin Capsicum)
a. Color code Orange.
b. Reaction time of 1 -2 seconds and effective time of approximately one
half-hour.
c. When deployed there is a high likelihood officers may experience
some level of exposure.
d. Can cause the following physiological and respiratory effects:
(1) burning sensation and inflammation of the eyes, mucous
membranes and skin.
(2) involuntary muscle spasm of the eye causing intermittent blinking or
complete shutting of the eyes.
SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT
CHEMICAL AGENTS MANUAL
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(3) shortness of breath.
(4) feeling suffocated.
(5) coughing, sneezing and burning sensation through the respiratory
tract.
e. Some failures may occur on people and animals.
4. The arsenal of chemical agents maintained by Special Weapons and
Tactics (SWAT) shall be the responsibility of the SWAT Commander.
5. The arsenal of chemical agents maintained by patrol shall be the
responsibility of each Station Captain or designee. Maintenance shall
include the ordering and rotation of stock.
C. FIRST AID
1. When a chemical agent is used, the Department shall provide first aid as
soon as possible to all persons affected by its deployment
a. Fresh air (face into wind).
b. Flushing of eyes and face with large amounts of clean water.
c. Shower as soon as practical and launder clothing.
d. Never apply any oils, salves, or lotions.
2. If symptoms persist, medical aid should be obtained.
D. CHEMICAL AGENT EXPOSURE
1. Exposure normally causes no lasting effects. However, a large overdose
of CS or OC without removing the subject from the environment where it
was introduced can cause serious illness or even death.
2. Many variables affect the saturation. The amount of ventilation is the primary variable. Furniture, carpeting, and drapes also have an effect. The
dosage (the amount of agent entering an exposed person's system) is
difficult to determine. The effects of exposure to these chemical agents will
vary depending on a person's general physical condition, breathing rate,
etc.
3. Because of these and other considerations, it is not possible for
manufacturers to recommend specific guidelines for use of chemical
munitions. Indiscriminate use of chemicals must be avoided. Plans to
deploy chemical munitions must be based on the tactical situation, law,
and Department policy.
4. Pyrotechnics, designed for indoor use, are the most effective form of
munitions (i.e. Barricaded subjects). Only pyrotechnic munitions that are
specifically designed for indoor use (i.e. Tri -Chamber Flameless) should be
used in an indoor enclosure.
5. The risk of serious illness or death increases with the length and
concentration of the exposure. Persons who have pre- existing medical
conditions may be at a