In general, restraint policies dictate how staff members performing restraints conduct themselves, understanding the purpose of the restraint is to help the student regain control. The student's physical well-being is monitored throughout the incident. Many school policies enforce time limitations on restraints.
Student restraints are only warranted if the student presents a risk of serious injury to himself or others. They should only be used as a last result, performed by trained staff, never used as punishment and the parents or guardians should be notified immediately when a restraint has occurred.
Specialized training programs teach school staff safe and legal procedures for physical restraints. School staff members learn restraint techniques by demonstration and by simulated experience.
Physical restraints are a last resort and are performed when there is no chance of deescalating a situation. School staff will employ a number of preventive measures to avoid unnecessary restraints.
A minimum of two trained adults should perform a restraint. The least amount of force necessary is used to limit the student's freedom of movement until the student calms down and is able to exhibit self-control.