Pepper Spray Mishaps Plague Police Ranks Amidst Rare Training Drills

Recent incidents where police pepper spray has inadvertently affected officers and civilians have highlighted a lack of regular training in its use. While pepper spray is a standard police equipment, many departments have neglected periodic drills, leaving officers to learn its application through trial and error.

This has led to a concerning frequency of accidental injuries. In one case, a former police chief inadvertently sprayed pepper spray in a crowded night market, affecting bystanders including a political figure. In another, officers were affected by their own pepper spray during a pursuit. These incidents underscore the need for better protocols and training.

Police departments initially conducted practical exercises when pepper spray was introduced as standard equipment in 2016. However, these drills have become rare in recent years. Officers now rely on written guidelines, which lack the practical "feel" of using the spray, especially concerning its effective range and impact in different environments.

Some officers suggest that pepper spray usage should be integrated into regular police training, alongside shooting and physical combat. They propose that only officers who have completed these practical courses should be issued pepper spray. This would enhance their understanding of when and how to use it effectively, thereby reducing accidental self-inflicted injuries and ensuring better control during operations.

The Police Administration Agency classifies pepper spray as "protective equipment" rather than "police equipment," similar to radios and traffic batons. While its use is permitted against individuals resisting arrest or exhibiting aggressive behavior, its deployment is restricted during public gatherings.