Chemical Agents in Criminal Justice

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Questions and Answers

Which chemical agent is commonly known as pepper spray?

CS (orthochlorobenzal-malononitrile)

Capsicum extract

OC (oleoresin capsicum) (correct)

Synthetic irritant solution

What is the primary effect of OC (oleoresin capsicum) on the human body?

It leads to tearing and respiratory distress. (correct)

It produces temporary blindness.

It results in immediate unconsciousness.

It causes intense burns on the skin.

What active ingredient in OC is responsible for the burning sensation?

Capsaicin (correct)

Epinephrine

Benzene

Chlorine

Which of the following is used to measure the heat value of capsicum?

Scoville heat units (SHU) Signup and view all the answers

What sensation does CS (orthochlorobenzal-malononitrile) primarily induce?

Pain and irritation Signup and view all the answers

What are the general effects of OC exposure?

Tearing and nasal discharge with a slight puffiness of the skin Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary uses of chemical agents by criminal justice officers?

To control resistant subjects Signup and view all the answers

What type of deployment systems may special operations units use for chemical agents?

Pepper foggers or gas guns Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the propellant in the OC formula?

To expel the active ingredient from the canister Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can affect the expected results of OC?

The subject’s mindset or past experiences Signup and view all the answers

What are the possible effects when OC is sprayed directly into the eyes?

An intense burning sensation and bloodshot appearance Signup and view all the answers

Which component in OC helps to suspend the capsicum in the solution?

Water or vegetable oil Signup and view all the answers

Why should caution be exercised when discharging OC directly into the eyes?

It discharges at a potentially dangerous speed Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk when using alcohol-based OC sprays?

They create a fire hazard with flames Signup and view all the answers

What physical reaction may occur if OC is inhaled?

Coughing, gasping, and potentially vomiting Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary desired effect of OC when sprayed?

To target the subject’s face directly Signup and view all the answers

What are common reactions a subject may exhibit after being sprayed with OC?

Loss of balance Signup and view all the answers

What should be done immediately if a person shows unusual behavior after contamination by OC?

Seek medical attention Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action to take when a subject is contaminated?

Proceed with decontamination procedures Signup and view all the answers

How are OC canisters designed in relation to safety?

They are pliable and resistant to cracking Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential part of managing a person contaminated with a chemical agent?

Ensure proper air circulation and breathing Signup and view all the answers

What psychological strategy should be employed during contamination of a subject with a chemical agent?

Reassure them the contaminant will dissipate Signup and view all the answers

What is one recommended decontamination procedure after chemical agent exposure?

To use warm water and soap Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical duration for the effects of OC to dissipate?

20–30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of strobing during physical decontamination?

To enhance vision and activate tear ducts Signup and view all the answers

How should a person respond to the burning sensation caused by a contaminant?

Concentrate on rhythmic breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is the best method for irrigating the eyes after exposure to a chemical agent?

Using a large amount of running water Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when removing contaminants from the skin?

Scrubbing the skin vigorously Signup and view all the answers

What is a safe way to allow the chemical agent's effects to wear off?

Standing in a breeze or in front of a fan Signup and view all the answers

What documentation is essential after the use of a chemical agent?

Document the type of chemical agent and contamination procedures Signup and view all the answers

Which solution is suggested to decrease the effects of contamination?

Baby shampoo as a decontaminant Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mistake when rinsing the eyes after exposure?

Wiping the eyes before rinsing Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chemical Agents

Criminal justice officers use OC (oleoresin capsicum) or CS (orthochlorobenzal-malononitrile) to control resistant subjects.
These agents are typically in handheld canisters or projectiles.
OC (pepper spray): Causes tearing, involuntary eye closure, nasal discharge, sneezing, disorientation, and respiratory distress. Skin reddens and may swell. Effects generally last 20-30 minutes, possibly longer in some cases.
CS (an irritant): Causes burning, tearing eyes, nasal discharge, and upper respiratory irritation. Produces a sensation of intense burning, though there isn't actual burning.
OC active ingredient: Capsaicin (natural derivative of cayenne pepper).
Chemical contamination effects are measured by Scoville Heat Units (SHUs). While heat units are used to measure pepper heat, they are not equivalent to thermal degrees.

OC Spray Contents

OC spray formula often includes carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or isobutane propellant to expel the active ingredient.
Other components include water, vegetable oil or alcohol-based solutions to keep the capsicum suspended in the formula.

OC Effects

OC is generally effective on most people, though effectiveness can be affected by factors like:
- Spray location (must be sprayed in the face for best results)
- Subject's mental state/past experience with chemical agents
- Drug use
- Existing psychological state (e.g., psychosis)
- High pain tolerance
Immediate effects include eye closure, intense burning sensation, bloodshot eyes, and possible coughing, gasping, gagging, and vomiting.
Other effects can include swelling, nasal discharge, and mucus.

Decontamination Procedures

Follow agency policies for decontamination procedures.
Decontamination should be performed immediately once the subject is under control.
Officers should not leave contaminated individuals unattended.
Decontamination methods include using running water (to irrigate eyes and facial skin).
Using a chemical agent is a use of force and must be documented.

Psychological Decontamination

Reassure the person that the effects are temporary.
Guide the person through the process of physical decontamination.
Instruct the person to avoid rubbing their eyes.
Use strobing (forceful blinking) to clear the eyes.
Breathing exercises may help with mucus.
Breathing issues may be addressed by using rhythmic inhaling and exhaling.
Contaminants can be removed from the skin by gently removing them.
The chemical effects can be reduced by more exposure to air (fan).
Water exposure (irrigation) for eyes and facial skin helps.

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Description

This quiz explores the use of chemical agents like OC and CS sprays in criminal justice. Learn about their effects, usage, and the science behind these irritants. Perfect for students and professionals in law enforcement and criminal justice studies.