Restraint and Seclusion

Document the incident

Schools are required to document every incident of physical restraint or seclusion.

A record of the incident can be added to the Computerised Administrative System Environment for Schools.

Records ought to be made as soon as possible following the incident and include:

• the name of the student(s) and staff member(s) involved
• date, time, and location of the incident
• names of witnesses (staff and other students)
• details of the incident of physical restraint or seclusion (a brief factual account)
• any action taken to de-escalate the situation
• the reason why physical restraint or seclusion was used
• the duration of the physical restraint or seclusion
• whether anyone sustained an injury
• immediate post incident actions, such as first aid or contact with emergency services
• details of any post-incident support provided or organised including contact with the student's parent/carer.

Documentation associated with any hazard or incident must be retained according to the Department’s Records Management — School Records Policy.