The Top 5 Mistakes Guards Make When Deploying OC Spray and How to Avoid Them

OC spray, commonly known as pepper spray is one of the most widely carried non-lethal tools in security and law enforcement. It's effective, portable, and can de-escalate volatile situations before they become physical altercations. But despite its widespread use, many guards make critical errors when deploying OC spray, jeopardizing their safety, the safety of bystanders, and exposing their employers to liability.

In this article, we'll break down the five most common mistakes security professionals make when using OC spray and show you exactly how to avoid them through proper training and preparation.

Mistake #1: Deploying OC Spray Without Proper Distance and Positioning

One of the most frequent errors guards make is standing too close—or too far—when deploying OC spray. Standing within arm's reach puts you at risk of being grabbed or struck before the spray takes effect. Standing too far away reduces accuracy and allows the subject to advance or flee.

How to avoid it:

• Maintain a minimum distance of 6 to 10 feet when possible

• Position yourself at an angle, not directly in front of the subject

• Always keep your non-dominant side forward to protect your spray hand

• Create distance immediately after deployment to avoid cross-contamination

Proper positioning isn't just about safety, it's about maintaining control of the situation. Training scenarios should replicate real-world conditions, including confined spaces, crowded environments, and subjects who don't stand still.

Mistake #2: Failing to Account for Wind and Environmental Factors

OC spray is an aerosol, which means it's subject to wind, humidity, and indoor air currents. Guards who don't assess their environment before deployment often experience blowback, contaminating themselves or bystanders instead of the intended target.

How to avoid it:

• Always check wind direction before deploying spray outdoors

• Avoid deploying into HVAC vents or near open windows indoors

• If the wind is blowing toward you, reposition before spraying

• Choose stream or gel formulations in windy environments instead of cone sprays

Environmental awareness should be part of every use-of-force decision. A well-trained guard doesn't just react, they assess, adapt, and deploy tactically.

Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Spray Pattern for the Situation

Not all OC sprays are created equal. Some use a cone pattern, others a stream, and some deploy foam or gel. Each has distinct advantages and limitations. Guards who don't understand these differences often choose the wrong tool for the job—or use the right tool incorrectly.

Common spray types and their best uses:

• Cone/Fog: Wide coverage, best for multiple subjects or close quarters; high risk of blowback

• Stream: Greater range and accuracy; best for windy conditions and single subjects

• Gel/Foam: Minimal blowback; sticks to target; ideal for indoor use

Your security team should be trained on the specific type of spray they carry and understand when and when not to use it. This is where realistic scenario-based training makes all the difference.

Mistake #4: Poor Follow-Through and Lack of Verbal Commands

Deploying OC spray is not the end of the encounter—it's a tactical transition. Many guards make the mistake of spraying a subject and then freezing, unsure of what to do next. Others fail to issue clear, lawful commands before, during, and after deployment.

How to avoid it:

• Issue a loud, clear verbal warning before deploying (if tactically feasible): "Stop! Do not move or you will be sprayed!"

• Deploy in short, controlled bursts, typically 1 to 2 seconds

• Immediately create distance and reassess the threat

• Continue issuing commands: "Get on the ground! Show me your hands!"

• Be prepared to escalate or de-escalate based on the subject's response

Effective deployment is a communication skill as much as a physical one. Verbal commands demonstrate control, provide legal documentation of your intent, and can prevent the situation from escalating further.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Decontamination and Aftercare Protocols

Once OC spray is deployed, the incident isn't over. Many guards—and their employers—fail to plan for aftercare, leading to prolonged suffering, medical complications, and potential lawsuits. Proper decontamination is both a legal and ethical responsibility.

How to avoid it:

• Always have a decontamination plan in place before deploying spray

• Move the subject to fresh air immediately

• Do not allow the subject to rub their eyes or face

• Provide access to water for flushing (cool, not cold)

• Summon medical assistance if the subject has difficulty breathing or a known medical condition

• Document the deployment and aftercare steps thoroughly

Failing to provide appropriate aftercare can turn a legally justified use of force into a liability nightmare. Your team must know what to do in the critical minutes after deployment.

Training Is the Difference Between Competence and Liability

OC spray is only as effective as the person deploying it. The mistakes outlined above aren't just training gaps—they're risk factors that can lead to injuries, lawsuits, and loss of public trust. Avoiding them requires more than a quick classroom lecture. It demands realistic, hands-on training that replicates the stress and complexity of real-world encounters.

At Incendiary Training Services, we specialize in defensive tactics and non-lethal weapons training designed specifically for security professionals and law enforcement personnel. Our instructors bring real-world experience and a commitment to practical, scenario-based education that builds confidence and competence.

Ready to elevate your team's OC spray skills? Contact Incendiary Training Services today to schedule on-site or off-site training tailored to your organization's needs. Let's ensure your guards are prepared, protected, and professional in every encounter.

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Published by Incendiary Training Services

www.TrainWithITS.com