Restraints 1.15 CAGE BEDS AND NETS BEDS Key Technical Features A bed enclosed by a cage, or a bed with one or more sides fitted with nets. Cage or net may completely enclose the bed on all sides, including the top. The cage may be made of wood, metal, or other material, and nets can be made of soft fabric or other tougher materials. The use of cage or net beds constitutes a prima facie violation of the prohibition of torture and other ill-treatment. Human Rights Concerns If a restrained individual is left unattended or is restrained for long periods in a restraint bed or cage, there is a risk of injury or death. These risks are exacerbated if the restrained individual is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If the net is torn, it could be used for self-harm or suicide. The restrained individual may be unable to be released quickly in an emergency (e.g. in a fire). The use of cage or net beds fulfils no legitimate law enforcement purpose that cannot be achieved through less harmful means. Statements and Standards from Human Rights Bodies Examples of Existing Controls CPT: “The use of net (or cage) beds should be prohibited under all circumstances.". 61 UN HRC: cage and net beds should not be used in psychiatric institutions, and their use "constitutes inhuman and degrading treatment". 62 The EU Anti-Torture Regulation prohibits the trade in this equipment. Manufacture should be prohibited. Proposed Control Transfer should be prohibited. Use should be prohibited. CoE: CPT, Means of restraint in psychiatric establishments for adults (revised CPT standards), 21 March 2017, CPT/Inf(2017)6, para. 3.4. 61 62 UN HRC, Concluding observations of the HRC Croatia, 4 November 2009, CCPR/C/HRV/CO/2, para 12. 39