(a) When force is authorized.  Per Section 7004-3.3 of Title 10 of the Oklahoma Statutes group home staff are authorized to use physical force:

• (1) for self protection;
• (2) to separate children who are fighting;
• (3) to restrain children in danger of inflicting harm to themselves or others; and
• (4) to deter children who are in the process of leaving the facility without authorization.

(b) Non-physical de-escalation methods first.  The use of physical force is preceded by reasonable efforts to exercise authority by alternative means, such as physical presence, gesture skills, and verbal interventions if possible.

(c) Using the least force necessary.  When physical force is used, the least force necessary under the circumstances is employed.  Use of excessive force may result in employee disciplinary action.  The physical restraint techniques in behavior management training are used.

(d) Unauthorized use of force.  Group home staff do not engage in unauthorized use of force nor encourage or knowingly permit any person to use unauthorized force against a resident.  Unauthorized use of force may result in employee disciplinary action, including discharge from employment.  Unauthorized force includes:

• (1) use of force as a punishment, sanction, or as a retaliatory response;
• (2) threatening a resident with physical force which is unauthorized if used; and
• (3) provoking a physical confrontation by taunting, harassing, or cursing a resident, or otherwise manipulating a resident to engage in activities which justify the use of physical force.

(e) Prohibited restraints.  Group home staff are prohibited from using mechanical restraints to control a resident.