Legalities of Handcuff Possession in the UK
In the UK, anybody can legally carry handcuffs. However, using them on another person without justification is assault. It is suggested that untrained people should not use handcuffs, since injury risks exist. UK law strictly controls guns. Gun crime is low. Some security staff now regularly carry legal items like cameras and protective vests. UK security guards cannot carry guns, batons, or pepper spray. Under legislation, licensed guards may have handcuffs, batons, dogs. Only licensed guards can have firearms.
Types of Handcuffs
There are three main handcuff types: chain, hinged, rigid. Chain cuffs are most common. Hinged and rigid cuffs allow techniques not possible with chains. Police sometimes use folding handcuffs. Using handcuffs can be a crime unless reasonable and proportionate. If a suspect tries escaping or gets violent, police can reasonably handcuff them. Before using handcuffs, guards should train. Most modern handcuffs use one standard universal key design. Special keys open maximum security cuffs. Handcuff keys don’t work on thumbcuffs. In the UK, possessing handcuff keys without authority or reasonable excuse is illegal. This impacts security, since having keys risks charges for untrained staff.