Operational partnerships - ASP tri-fold restraints SOP (O43d)

1. Summary of changes

1.1. This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been reviewed in April 2026 – no amendments to content made.   

2. What this procedure is about

2.1. This SOP outlines the procedures for the use of ASP Tri-fold Restraints.

Compliance with this SOP and any governing policy is mandatory.

3. Detail the procedure

3.1 The use of handcuffs will be in accordance with the NPCC guidance on the use of handcuffs. Please refer to the NPCC guidance on the use of handcuffs for further information.

3.2 ASP Tri Fold Restraints are only to be used in special circumstances, justifiable by the nature of the operational need. Where the ASP Tri Fold Restraints are used, safe removal cutters (Scarab cutters) must be available at all times.

4. Equality Impact Assessment (EIA)

4.1. An EIA has been carried out and shows the proposals in this procedure would have high potential or actual differential impact on grounds of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, transgender, disability, age, religion or belief or sexual orientation.

5. Risk assessment

5.1. This SOP has been assessed as medium risk.

6. Consultation

• Staff Safety Training Unit
• Equipment Review Group
• Human Resources
• IT Security
• Estates
• Finance
• Equality and Diversity
• Legal
• Freedom of Information
• Police Federation

7. Monitoring and review

7.1. This SOP will be monitored by the Staff Safety Training Unit and via the National Self Defence and Restraint Practitioner Advisory Group to ensure accuracy is maintained in relation to College of Policing personal safety training guidance. This SOP will be reviewed every two years with the next review scheduled for April 2027.

8. Other source documents

None.

9. Security

8.1. Kent Police have measures in place to protect the security of your data in accordance with our Information Management policy. 

10. Retention and disposal of records

9.1. Kent Police will hold data in accordance with our Records Review, Retention and Disposal policy.