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NCJRS Abstract

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NCJ Number:	184781

Title:	OC Spray and Science: One Good Study Is Worth a Hundred Opinions

Journal:	Law Enforcement Trainer Volume:15 Issue:4 Dated:July/August 2000 Pages:18-42

Author(s):	Bob Bragg

Editor(s):	Kat Kelley

Date Published:	2000

Page Count:	3

Publisher:	http://www.aslet.org

Type:	Report (Technical)

Format:	Article

Language:	English

Country:	United States of America

Annotation:	Controversy is still associated with the use of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray both in the field and in the training environment.

Abstract:	The author researched the medical and toxicological literature and enlisted the help of a university to identify research on OC. He found a great deal of research on the active ingredient capsaicin and its effects on the nerves in fetal mice and on human cough patterns, but found only minimal research on the effects of capsaicin on the living cornea of humans. To obtain information on the field use of OC spray and its effects on the human eye, the author contacted the University of Washington's medical school where ophthalmologists studied the effects of OC spray on the human cornea. The study involved about 45 participants who were evaluated before and after exposure to OC spray on visual acuity and corneal sensitivity. Corneal sensitivity was dramatically reduced at 10 minutes post-exposure and was improved after 1 hour. OC spray induced marked corneal irritation and conjunctival irritation but with no apparent long-term effects.

Main Term(s):	Science and Technology

Index Term(s):	Chemical irritants; Less lethal technologies; Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)/Pepper Spray; Police equipment



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NCJRS Abstract

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