Chapter 5 – Adult Custody and Security Operations

51020.16 Application of Spit Hoods or Masks

• Only departmentally approved spit hoods/masks are authorized for use. A spit hood/mask shall not be placed upon an inmate who:

  • Is in a state of altered consciousness (visibly drowsy, stuporous, or unconscious) or;

  • Has any visible signs of a seizure; or

  • Is vomiting or exhibits signs of beginning to vomit.

  • A spit hood/mask may be applied to an inmate if:

  • There is verbal or physical intent by the inmate to contaminate others with spit or other bodily fluids from the nose or mouth; or

  • The inmate is not able to control expelling fluids from the nose or mouth (with the exception of vomit); or

  • The inmate is on authorized security precautions according to the procedures of the unit where the inmate is housed.

  • If the inmate was contaminated with OC before the mask was applied, the mask shall be kept on until the inmate is afforded decontamination unless the inmate is in a state of altered consciousness (visibly drowsy, stuporous, or unconscious); or has any visible signs of a seizure; or is vomiting or exhibits signs of beginning to vomit. In this case the spit hood/mask will be removed immediately and appropriate treatment will be administered.

• If the inmate is decontaminated with fresh moving air, the spit hood/mask may remain on during decontamination and can be exchanged for a new spit hood/mask when decontamination is complete. If the inmate is decontaminated with water, the spit hood/mask shall be removed during decontamination and a new spit hood/mask can be placed on the inmate when decontamination is complete.

• If an inmate has been exposed to chemical agents after the spit hood/mask is applied, the spit hood/mask shall be replaced with a new one when it is safe to do so.

• If a spit hood/mask was applied and the inmate loses consciousness, begins seizing, or begins vomiting the spit hood/mask shall be removed immediately and appropriate treatment will be administered.

• If a spit hood/mask is applied to an inmate, it is imperative that constant supervision of the inmate be maintained for signs of respiratory distress. If any respiratory distress is observed, the spit hood/mask shall be removed until the signs of respiratory distress have dissipated.

• Once an inmate is exposed to chemical agents and/or if a spit hood/mask is placed on the inmate, staff shall not place them on their stomachs, or in a position that allows the inmate to end up on their stomach, for any period longer than necessary to secure (e.g. handcuff) and/or gain control of the inmate. A prone position makes it difficult for any exposed individual to breathe and may be a contributing factor in positional asphyxia. Positional asphyxia occurs when an individual’s body position interferes with respiration, resulting in death.

• If an exposed individual is in handcuffs and requires transportation via a gurney, stokes litter, etc., they shall be positioned on their back or side.