U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE STANDARDS FOR HAND- HELD AEROSOL TEAR GAS WEAPONS CONTAINING OLEORESIN CAPSICUM

NCJ Number
146594
Date Published
Unknown
Length
27 pages
Annotation
These guidelines are intended for use in implementing the California laws concerning the possession, use, and sale of tear gas containing Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) and OC tear gas devices in California.
Abstract
Under California standards, these devices are considered to be nonlethal weapons when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, it is assumed that those using these devices do so voluntarily and assume all risks and liability resulting from their use. The standards establish minimum performance and safety requirements as well as methods of testing for these devices, which are intended to restrain or incapacitate persons whose behavior would otherwise require more lethal force. The standards cover classifications, definitions, requirements for testing and formulation, device performance, and specific test methods. Figures