There is a lack of records about the use of routine restraint which makes it almost impossible to determine with certainty if restraints are being used appropriately. However, several case studies have highlighted that the use of routine restraint is not aligned with the risk the person poses of escape, or harm to themselves or others. These are the only circumstances in which the Department is authorised to used routine restraint.
The Department requires better alignment between the risks presented and the routine use of restraint, particularly when there are medical reasons which decrease risk, such as when the person is unconscious, terminal ill, or pregnant. Record keeping must improve in order to measure whether the right balance is being maintained between security and the health and dignity of prisoners.