Use of force policy

Retinue Risk is committed to delivering protective services lawfully, professionally, and proportionately.

All personnel operate in accordance with:

• The Criminal Law Act 1967
• Common law self-defence principles
• The Human Rights Act 1998
• Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensing standards

Force is used only where reasonable, necessary, and proportionate, and strictly as a last resort. We maintain a clear duty of care to our clients, personnel, and members of the public.

Legal Framework

SIA-licensed Close Protection Operatives may use reasonable force for:

• Self-defence
• Defence of another person
• Prevention of crime
• Lawful citizen’s arrest

All actions must meet the objective “reasonable person” standard and remain defensible under UK criminal and civil law. Excessive or retaliatory force is strictly prohibited.

Operational Approach

Retinue Risk applies a minimum force and de-escalation model, prioritising:

• Situational awareness
• Professional presence
• Verbal engagement
• Tactical withdrawal where appropriate

Physical intervention is used only when lesser measures would be ineffective in preventing imminent harm.

Prohibited Conduct

• Use of force as punishment
• Continuation of force once a threat has ceased
• Application of chokeholds or neck restraints
• Use of restricted equipment (batons, handcuffs, irritant sprays, conducted energy devices, firearms) within UK operations

Accountability

All use of force incidents are documented within 24 hours, reviewed internally, and reported to client representatives where appropriate. Personnel must be able to justify their actions under legal scrutiny.

Subcontracted Personnel

Where subcontracted operatives are engaged:

• All must hold valid SIA licences
• Maintain current physical intervention training
• Confirm compliance with this policy

Oversight responsibility remains with Retinue Risk.

Review

This policy is reviewed annually and following any significant operational incident.