11. MECHANICAL RESTRAINTS Description: Mechanical restraints are applied to the body to restrict the movement of an individual. Many different types are used for law enforcement. There are a number of types of these restraints, which are most frequently used at the moment of arrest or shortly thereafter: Ordinary handcuffs consist of two lockable cuffs, usually made of metal, connected by a short chain-link, rigid bar or hinge. Some models feature a double locking mechanism, designed to prevent overtightening, and others are single locking, which can be progressively tightened through a ratchet. Plastic restraints, resembling “cable ties” (which are also sometimes used), and nylon or textile restraints can have single or double cuffs. They are mostly used to restrain the hands, but there are also models designed to restrain the feet. Fabric adjustable restraints with metal grips are most frequently fixed to the wrists, ankles or waist. “Fast” straps are fabric straps with Velcro fasteners that wrap round the legs, arms and/or torso. Intended purpose: Mechanical restraints are applied to control people or to protect them from committing harm to themselves or others. In the context of public gatherings, they are used to restrict the movement of people who have been detained for engaging in criminal behaviour (e.g., violence towards law enforcement officials or others, criminal damage caused to property), who also pose a risk of harm to themselves or others, or may flee. Some of the restraints shown above have specific uses. Plastic or nylon restraints and “fast” straps are designed for rapid deployment and, due to their light weight,