Key Elements
Means of restraint are instruments intended to restrain or temporarily limit the freedom of movement of a person without injuring him/her, for example, handcuffs, straps, straitjackets, or restraining beds.
The use of means of restraint must be forbidden except in very specific and strictly regulated situations. Therefore, such means must not be used for longer than is strictly necessary and only in order to prevent the risk of escape during transfers, physical assaults on third parties, acts of self-harm or damage to infrastructure.
In no case may methods of restraint be used for disciplinary purposes. Certain instruments of restraint such as chains and irons are banned.
Resorting to means of restraint with regard certain categories of persons in detention, in particular pregnant women and minors must be subject to even stricter regulation.