Straitjacket: Key Specifications, Material Grades, and Engineering Uses

Types of Straitjackets: Uses, Features & Applications

A straitjacket is a specialized restraint garment designed to safely limit upper body movement in medical, psychiatric, and behavioral health settings. These devices are primarily used to protect individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others due to severe agitation, self-injurious behavior, or extreme motor activity—such as those with certain autism spectrum disorders or acute psychiatric episodes.

Modern straitjackets prioritize safety, comfort, and dignity while providing necessary control. They are engineered with varying levels of restriction depending on the clinical need, from soft, easily removable designs to highly secure models for extreme situations. Below is a comprehensive overview of the main types of straitjackets used today.

Unlocked Straitjackets

Designed for temporary, low-risk restraint with quick-release mechanisms such as Velcro, zippers, or loosened collars.

Advantages

• Quick and easy removal by staff
• Ideal for short-term or therapeutic use
• Reduces patient anxiety due to non-permanent feel
• Commonly used in physical therapy and rehabilitation

Limitations

• Not suitable for highly aggressive patients
• Can be tampered with or self-removed
• Limited security in crisis situations

Best for: Mild agitation, therapy sessions, controlled environments

Levine Straitjacket

Features elastic components that allow limited arm movement while maintaining secure restraint.

Advantages

• Balances mobility and control
• Reduces muscle stiffness during prolonged use
• Used in psychiatric units for violent episodes
• Improves patient comfort compared to rigid models

Limitations

• May require frequent monitoring
• Elastic can degrade over time
• Not fully escape-proof in extreme cases

Best for: Acute psychiatric care, moderate aggression, short-term stabilization

Vest Straitjacket

Resembles a soft, padded vest with adjustable straps; designed for comfort and dignity.

Advantages

• High comfort level with soft, breathable materials
• Less intimidating appearance than traditional models
• Widely used in schools and special needs facilities
• Allows sitting and limited movement

Limitations

• Lower restraint capability
• May not prevent all forms of self-harm
• Requires supervision at all times

Best for: Children with autism, non-violent behavioral issues, educational settings

Spanish Windlass Straitjacket

Uses a twisting rod mechanism along the spine to progressively tighten the restraint.

Advantages

• Extremely secure and escape-resistant
• Provides full immobilization when needed
• Historically effective in high-risk scenarios

Limitations

• Can cause discomfort or psychological distress
• Risk of restricted breathing if over-tightened
• Rarely used in modern medicine due to ethical concerns

Best for: Extreme restraint scenarios, historical or specialized use

Medical Straitjacket

Engineered for clinical environments with compatibility for IV lines and monitoring equipment.

Advantages

• Integrated access points for medical treatment
• Soft padding for extended wear
• Promotes hygiene and patient dignity
• Used in psychiatric hospitals and emergency rooms

Limitations

• Higher cost than standard models
• Requires trained personnel for proper use
• Still necessitates regular patient checks

Best for: Hospitalized patients, long-term therapy, medical procedures

Recirculation (Return) Straitjacket

Designed to prevent self-release by routing arms in a way that limits leverage and movement.

Advantages

• Highly resistant to escape attempts
• Reduces chest pressure in modern versions
• Used in correctional and forensic psychiatric units
• Minimizes risk of respiratory complications

Limitations

• Can be perceived as punitive
• Requires strict monitoring protocols
• Not intended for long-term use

Best for: High-risk patients, correctional facilities, acute behavioral crises

Type	Restraint Level	Comfort	Primary Use	Safety Features
Unlocked	Low	High	Therapy, mild agitation	Quick-release, non-restrictive
Levine	Moderate-High	Medium	Psychiatric emergencies	Elastic flexibility, secure fit
Vest	Low-Moderate	Very High	Schools, autism care	Soft materials, dignified design
Spanish Windlass	Extreme	Low	High-security restraint	Twist-tight mechanism
Medical	Moderate	High	Hospital settings	IV access, padded interior
Recirculation	Very High	Medium	Correctional/forensic	Escape-resistant, pressure-reduced

Expert Tip: Regardless of type, all straitjackets should be used under strict clinical supervision, with regular monitoring of circulation, respiration, and psychological state. Modern healthcare emphasizes the least restrictive intervention possible, prioritizing de-escalation techniques before physical restraint.

Note: The use of restraints is highly regulated and governed by ethical guidelines and legal standards in most countries. These devices are intended solely for patient safety and must be applied by trained professionals in accordance with institutional protocols.

Material and Durability of Straitjackets: Evolution, Functionality, and Modern Design

The materials used in the construction of straitjackets are crucial in determining their durability, safety, comfort, and functionality. Historically, straitjackets were designed solely for maximum restraint, often at the expense of user comfort. Made from thick canvas and secured with tight straps, early versions could cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even injury during prolonged use. However, modern advancements in textile engineering and patient safety standards have led to a significant evolution in design—prioritizing both security and humane treatment.

Today’s straitjackets are engineered using advanced materials that balance strength, comfort, and hygiene, making them suitable for use in psychiatric care, emergency transport, decontamination procedures, and correctional settings. The following sections explore key material categories and their impact on performance and longevity.

Key Material Categories and Their Benefits

Breathable Fabrics

Modern straitjackets frequently incorporate breathable textiles such as cotton-polyester blends and moisture-wicking synthetic fibers. These materials allow air circulation and draw sweat away from the skin, reducing the risk of overheating and heat-related distress—critical concerns during extended wear in medical or transport scenarios.

Breathability also minimizes skin irritation and the development of pressure sores, supporting patient dignity and well-being. In psychiatric facilities, where individuals may wear restraints for monitored periods, breathable designs contribute to better physiological and psychological outcomes. Additionally, these fabrics are often treated with antimicrobial coatings to inhibit bacterial growth and odor.

Soft and Padded Liners

To enhance comfort and reduce the risk of injury, many contemporary straitjackets feature soft padding or quilted interior linings made from foam, fleece, or memory foam inserts. These cushioned materials distribute pressure evenly across the shoulders, chest, and arms, preventing bruising and abrasions.

Padded designs are especially valuable in high-risk environments such as mental health units, ambulance transports, or during chemical decontamination, where agitated individuals may struggle violently. The padding not only protects the wearer but also reduces the likelihood of self-harm. Reinforced stitching and seamless construction prevent fraying and maintain structural integrity even under stress.

Strength and Rigidity

Durability is paramount in restraint devices. High-tensile materials like reinforced nylon, ballistic polyester, and hybrid synthetic blends are commonly used to resist tearing, pulling, and tampering. These fabrics are engineered to withstand extreme force without compromising flexibility.

In correctional institutions and emergency response units, straitjackets must endure rigorous use and potential abuse. To meet these demands, manufacturers incorporate double- or triple-stitched seams, bar-tacking at stress points, and abrasion-resistant coatings. Coupled with tamper-resistant fasteners—such as break-resistant buckles or locking zippers—these materials ensure reliable restraint while minimizing escape risks.

Water-Resistant and Fluid-Repellent Materials

Hygiene and ease of sanitation are critical in healthcare and emergency settings. Water-resistant or fluid-barrier fabrics—often treated with polyurethane (PU) coatings or laminated membranes—prevent liquids such as sweat, blood, or bodily fluids from soaking into the material.

This feature is essential not only for infection control but also for maintaining the structural integrity of the garment. Many water-resistant straitjackets are machine-washable or can be disinfected with hospital-grade cleaners, enabling rapid turnaround between uses. These materials also perform well in outdoor or adverse weather conditions during transport or crisis intervention.

Material Type	Primary Benefit	Common Applications
Cotton-Polyester Blends	Breathability and comfort	Psychiatric care, short-term restraint
Moisture-Wicking Synthetics	Thermal regulation and dryness	Emergency transport, prolonged wear
Reinforced Nylon / Ballistic Fabric	High tear and abrasion resistance	Correctional facilities, high-risk scenarios
Water-Resistant Coated Fabrics	Hygiene, easy cleaning, fluid protection	Hospitals, decontamination units, ambulances
Padded or Quilted Liners	Pressure distribution and injury prevention	Mental health facilities, transport

Design Considerations for Optimal Performance

Reinforced Seams and Stitching: Double- or triple-stitched seams, especially at joints and strap anchors, significantly increase durability and prevent premature failure under stress.

Tamper-Resistant Fasteners: Use of rust-proof buckles, locking zippers, or break-resistant ties ensures security and reduces the risk of self-release.

Ergonomic Fit: Adjustable straps and modular sizing accommodate a wide range of body types while maintaining consistent restraint and comfort.

Easy Maintenance: Machine-washable and quick-drying materials reduce operational downtime and support infection control protocols.

Safety Compliance: Modern straitjackets are designed to meet international safety standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO) for medical restraints, ensuring ethical use and minimizing liability.

Important: While modern materials enhance safety and comfort, proper training in the application and monitoring of straitjackets is essential. Misuse can lead to physical harm, psychological trauma, or legal consequences. Always follow institutional guidelines, prioritize patient well-being, and use restraints only when absolutely necessary and under appropriate supervision.

What to Consider When Purchasing Straitjackets

Choosing the right straitjacket is a critical decision, especially in medical, psychiatric, or correctional environments where patient safety, comfort, and institutional efficiency are paramount. A well-selected straitjacket balances restraint effectiveness with humane treatment, durability, and ease of maintenance. Below are the key factors to consider when selecting straitjackets for professional use.

Safety Features

Safety is the top priority when selecting a straitjacket, particularly in healthcare or correctional settings where vulnerable individuals are involved. The design should prevent self-harm or injury during use while allowing for rapid intervention when necessary.

• Rounded edges and smooth hardware eliminate sharp points that could cause abrasions or cuts
• Internal padding—especially around shoulders, chest, and wrists—reduces pressure points and enhances user safety
• Quick-release mechanisms such as Velcro® fasteners or magnetic clips allow for immediate removal in emergencies
• Anti-escape stitching and reinforced locking points prevent tampering while maintaining safety standards

Key consideration: Always verify compliance with institutional safety protocols and regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, CE, or institutional policy).

Comfort and Wearability

Prolonged use of restraints requires thoughtful design to minimize physical discomfort and psychological distress. Comfortable straitjackets reduce agitation, improve cooperation, and support humane care practices.

• Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton-polyester blends prevent overheating and skin irritation
• Strategic padding in high-pressure zones (shoulders, elbows, back) distributes force evenly
• Ergonomic shaping conforms to natural body posture, reducing strain during restraint
• Lightweight materials improve wearability without compromising control

Pro tip: In psychiatric or long-term care settings, prioritize soft, non-threatening colors and textures to reduce anxiety.

Durability and Material Quality

Given the demanding environments where straitjackets are used, they must withstand repeated use, aggressive movements, and frequent cleaning without degradation.

• Heavy-duty materials such as ballistic nylon, reinforced canvas, or ripstop fabric resist tearing and fraying
• Double-stitched seams and bar-tacked stress points enhance structural integrity
• UV-resistant and mildew-proof coatings extend lifespan in varied storage and usage conditions
• Reinforced arm loops and torso panels prevent stretching or deformation over time

Critical factor: Look for products tested under stress simulations to ensure long-term reliability.

Adjustability and Sizing Options

A proper fit ensures both security and comfort. Ill-fitting restraints can lead to injury, escape attempts, or ineffective control.

• Multiple adjustable straps with Velcro® or buckle closures accommodate a wide range of body types
• Universal sizing or modular designs reduce inventory needs across patient populations
• Size-specific models (small, medium, large, pediatric) offer precision fitting for optimal safety
• Expandable side panels or stretch zones allow for growth or swelling without compromising restraint

Smart choice: Opt for kits that include multiple sizes to cover diverse user needs efficiently.

Hygiene and Ease of Cleaning

Maintaining cleanliness is essential in medical and correctional facilities to prevent infection and ensure dignity. Many facilities overlook this aspect, leading to unsanitary conditions and increased health risks.

• Machine-washable designs simplify routine sanitation using hospital-grade detergents
• Removable liners or washable covers allow for frequent cleaning without damaging the main structure
• Antimicrobial treatments inhibit bacterial growth and odor buildup between washes
• Water-resistant outer layers protect against spills, bodily fluids, and environmental exposure

Time-saving tip: Choose color-coded models to streamline sorting and prevent cross-contamination.

Usage Environment & Compliance

The intended setting—hospital, psychiatric ward, correctional facility, or training simulation—dictates specific requirements for functionality and legal compliance.

• Hospitals may require latex-free, hypoallergenic materials for sensitive patients
• Correctional facilities benefit from tamper-proof designs and durable construction
• Training institutions may prefer less restrictive, practice-grade models for educational use
• Ensure adherence to local regulations regarding restraint duration, monitoring, and documentation

Technical note: Some jurisdictions require documented justification for restraint use—choose equipment that supports policy compliance.

Professional Recommendation: When selecting straitjackets, prioritize models from reputable manufacturers that offer clinical validation, staff training resources, and clear instructions for safe application. Avoid low-cost, unbranded options that may compromise safety or durability. For most medical settings, mid-tier, certified products provide the best balance of safety, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.

Use Case	Recommended Features	Material Type	Cleaning Method
Psychiatric Hospital (Long-term)	Padded, breathable, quick-release	Cotton-poly blend with antimicrobial coating	Machine washable at 60°C
Emergency Transport	Lightweight, rapid deployment	Nylon with reflective trim	Wipe-down with disinfectant
Correctional Facility	Reinforced seams, tamper-resistant	Ballistic nylon with UV protection	Spot clean or industrial wash
Training & Simulation	Adjustable, non-restrictive	Durable canvas with Velcro® closures	Surface wipe with mild soap

Additional Considerations

• Staff Training: Ensure personnel are trained in proper application techniques to prevent injury and ensure effectiveness
• Patient Monitoring: Pair restraints with continuous observation protocols to uphold ethical standards
• Storage: Store in dry, ventilated areas away from direct sunlight to preserve material integrity
• Replacement Schedule: Regularly inspect for wear and replace damaged units immediately to maintain safety
• Ethical Use: Follow institutional policies on restraint duration, documentation, and alternatives to minimize trauma

Scenarios for Straitjacket Use: Safety, Control, and Ethical Considerations

Straitjackets are specialized restraint devices designed to safely limit upper body movement in high-risk behavioral situations. While historically associated with psychiatric institutions, modern usage is highly regulated and focused on patient and staff safety. Today, straitjackets are used only when less restrictive interventions have failed, and always under professional supervision. This guide outlines key scenarios where straitjackets may be ethically and medically justified, emphasizing safety protocols and humane application.

Important Note: The use of straitjackets is a last-resort intervention governed by strict legal, ethical, and medical guidelines. Misuse can lead to physical injury, psychological trauma, or legal consequences. Proper training, documentation, and ongoing monitoring are required in all cases.

Common Scenarios for Straitjacket Application

• Agitated Patients in Healthcare Settings

  Patients experiencing acute psychiatric episodes—such as severe psychosis, mania, or suicidal ideation—may pose an immediate danger to themselves or others. In emergency psychiatric units, when verbal de-escalation and medication fail, a straitjacket may be used temporarily to prevent self-harm (e.g., head-banging, biting) or assaults on staff. The goal is not punishment but protection, allowing time for medical intervention and stabilization.

  These restraints are applied by trained personnel, monitored continuously, and removed as soon as the patient is calm and cooperative. Hospitals follow strict protocols to ensure dignity and minimize distress during use.

• Autistic Children with Severe Behavioral Episodes

  Some children on the autism spectrum may experience sensory overload or communication difficulties that lead to aggressive or self-injurious behaviors, such as hitting, scratching, or head-banging. In clinical or therapeutic settings, a padded, properly fitted straitjacket or behavioral vest may be used as a short-term safety measure during extreme outbursts.

  These devices are not for routine discipline but are employed only when there is an imminent risk of harm. Occupational therapists often work alongside behavioral specialists to ensure the child is supported, comforted, and transitioned to calmer coping strategies as quickly as possible.

• Transportation of High-Risk Individuals

  During the transfer of individuals with severe mental illness, violent offenders, or those in acute crisis, straitjackets (or more commonly, soft restraint vests) may be used to maintain safety. Long-distance medical transports, court appearances, or prison transfers often involve individuals who may become unpredictable.

  Modern transport protocols prioritize comfort and dignity—restraints are applied correctly to avoid injury, and vital signs are monitored throughout the journey. Non-violent individuals may be placed in less restrictive garments that limit arm movement while allowing sitting, breathing, and limited interaction.

• Emergency Behavioral Health Units in Correctional Facilities

  Jails and prisons often house inmates with untreated mental health conditions. In behavioral crisis units, straitjackets may be used when an inmate is actively suicidal, self-harming, or violently assaulting others. These units operate under strict oversight, with correctional officers and mental health professionals collaborating on restraint decisions.

  The use of restraints is documented in real-time, and inmates are checked frequently for circulation, breathing, and psychological state. The objective is to prevent harm while facilitating psychiatric evaluation and treatment, not to punish or isolate.

• Public Venues with Violent Behavioral Outbursts

  In high-energy environments like concerts, nightclubs, or sports arenas—especially where alcohol or drugs are present—individuals may experience sudden mental health crises or violent episodes. Security personnel trained in crisis intervention may use soft restraints or behavioral control garments to safely contain the person until medical help arrives.

  These interventions are rare and typically involve coordination with emergency medical services. The focus is on de-escalation, minimizing public disruption, and ensuring the individual receives appropriate care rather than arrest or public humiliation.

Scenario	Purpose of Use	Duration Guidelines	Required Oversight
Hospital Psychiatric Units	Prevent self-harm during acute episodes	Short-term (minutes to hours)	Medical staff, continuous monitoring
Autism Therapy Centers	Safety during sensory overload	As brief as possible (under 30 mins)	Therapists, parental consent
Medical/Psychiatric Transport	Maintain safety during transit	Duration of transport	Trained EMTs or security
Correctional Facilities	Manage violent or suicidal inmates	Until stabilization or evaluation	Correctional + mental health staff
Public Event Centers	Immediate crisis containment	Until EMS arrival (under 15 mins)	Security + emergency responders

Best Practice Tip: In all settings, the use of restraints should be part of a broader behavioral intervention plan. Alternatives like de-escalation techniques, sensory rooms, and rapid medication response should be prioritized. When restraints are used, they must be accompanied by immediate follow-up care and debriefing to support recovery and prevent future incidents.

Ethical and Safety Considerations

• Straitjackets should only be used when there is a clear and present danger to self or others.
• Proper fit is critical—restraints must not restrict breathing, circulation, or cause skin injury.
• Individuals must be monitored at regular intervals (typically every 15 minutes) for physical and emotional well-being.
• Documentation is required for all restraint events, including justification, duration, and supervising personnel.
• Training in crisis prevention and intervention (e.g., CPI, MAPA) is essential for all staff authorized to apply restraints.

While straitjackets remain a controversial tool, their responsible use in controlled, professional environments can prevent serious harm. The focus must always be on safety, dignity, and swift transition to therapeutic care. As mental health practices evolve, the goal is to reduce reliance on physical restraints through better prevention, early intervention, and compassionate care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Straitjackets

Q1: What materials are used in modern straitjackets?

Modern straitjackets are constructed using advanced, high-performance materials designed to balance safety, durability, and user comfort. Unlike older models made from heavy canvas or leather, today’s versions often incorporate:

• Reinforced synthetic fabrics: Such as ballistic nylon or polyester blends, which offer exceptional tear resistance and longevity.
• Breathable mesh panels: Strategically placed to improve airflow and reduce overheating during extended wear.
• Moisture-wicking linings: Help manage perspiration and maintain hygiene, especially important in medical or correctional settings.
• Fire-retardant coatings: Used in certain institutional environments to meet safety regulations.

These material advancements ensure that straitjackets remain secure while minimizing physical strain and discomfort for the wearer.

Q2: Are straitjackets designed for comfort?

Yes, comfort is a key consideration in the design of contemporary straitjackets, particularly in healthcare and behavioral support environments where humane treatment is essential. Manufacturers prioritize:

• Padded interiors: Soft cushioning around shoulders, chest, and arm areas reduces pressure points and prevents skin irritation.
• Ergonomic shaping: Designed to follow natural body contours, allowing for a snug yet non-restrictive fit that supports proper posture.
• Adjustable straps: Enable customized fitting across different body types, ensuring security without excessive tightness.
• Weight distribution: Evenly spreads pressure across the torso to prevent localized stress or circulation issues.

While no restraint can be entirely "comfortable," modern designs aim to minimize distress and promote dignity during necessary use.

Q3: Can straitjackets be machine washed?

Yes, most modern straitjackets are designed with hygiene and ease of maintenance in mind. Cleaning methods vary by model, but common features include:

• Machine-washable construction: Many are made with removable liners or fully washable outer shells that can be cleaned in commercial or industrial washing machines using mild detergents.
• Antimicrobial treatments: Fabrics are often treated to resist bacteria, mold, and odors—critical in clinical and custodial environments.
• Wipe-clean surfaces: Some models feature waterproof or vinyl-coated sections that can be disinfected with hospital-grade wipes or sprays between uses.
• Dryer-safe materials: Certain designs tolerate low-heat tumble drying, though air drying is often recommended to extend fabric life.

Facilities should always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain integrity and safety standards over time.

Q4: Who typically uses straitjackets?

Straitjackets are primarily used in controlled environments where safety and de-escalation are priorities. Key users include:

• Mental health facilities: Employed during acute psychiatric episodes to prevent self-harm or harm to others while maintaining patient safety.
• Correctional institutions: Used temporarily during inmate transport or crisis intervention to manage aggressive behavior.
• Event security teams: In rare cases, trained personnel may use them at large public events to safely restrain individuals exhibiting violent or uncontrollable behavior until medical or law enforcement assistance arrives.
• Emergency medical services (EMS): Occasionally used during patient transport when other restraint methods are insufficient and safety is at risk.

Their use is strictly regulated and typically requires trained personnel, documented justification, and ongoing monitoring to ensure ethical and legal compliance.

Q5: Are there humane alternatives to traditional straitjacket designs?

Yes, significant advancements have led to more compassionate and effective alternatives that prioritize both safety and dignity. These include:

Alternative	Features	Benefits
Vest Restraints (e.g., Posey vests)	Wrap-around design with shoulder and side straps; limits arm movement without full immobilization.	Less restrictive, allows limited mobility, easier to monitor breathing and circulation.
Cushioned Limb Restraints	Soft, padded cuffs connected by a short chain or bar; used for wrists or ankles.	Reduces agitation, minimizes injury risk, and is less intimidating than full restraints.
Soft Tie-Down Systems	Fabric straps with quick-release buckles; secure limbs to bed rails or chairs.	Allows positional adjustments and easier access for medical care.
Behavioral Intervention Protocols	Non-physical methods such as verbal de-escalation, sensory modulation, and therapeutic engagement.	Avoids restraint entirely, promotes long-term behavioral management.

These alternatives are increasingly preferred in healthcare settings as part of a trauma-informed care approach, reducing psychological distress and promoting recovery.

Q6: How are straitjackets used in correctional facilities?

In correctional environments, straitjackets serve as a last-resort intervention for managing inmates who pose an immediate threat to themselves or others. Their use involves:

• Controlled application: Applied by trained correctional officers or mental health staff following established protocols and use-of-force guidelines.
• Prevention of self-harm: Often used when an inmate is actively attempting to injure themselves, such as head-banging or biting.
• De-escalation support: Allows time for the individual to calm down while ensuring staff and inmate safety during volatile episodes.
• Time-limited use: Typically restricted to short durations with continuous monitoring, documentation, and regular checks for circulation, respiration, and mental state.
• Legal and ethical oversight: Subject to internal reviews, medical evaluations, and sometimes external audits to prevent misuse.

Many facilities are shifting toward less restrictive alternatives, but straitjackets remain a tool in high-risk scenarios where immediate physical control is necessary.

Q7: What happens if someone becomes agitated while wearing a straitjacket?

Modern straitjackets are engineered with safety and well-being in mind, especially during periods of agitation. Protocols and design features help manage such situations effectively:

• Continuous monitoring: Staff regularly check vital signs, emotional state, and physical comfort to intervene early if distress escalates.
• Safety-focused design: Rounded edges, smooth seams, and padded surfaces reduce the risk of abrasions, bruising, or accidental injury during movement.
• Positional safety: Individuals are typically kept in a seated or semi-reclined position to prevent falls and ensure unobstructed breathing.
• De-escalation techniques: Trained personnel use verbal calming strategies, reduced environmental stimuli, or medical intervention (if needed) to help the person regain control.
• Quick-release mechanisms: Some models include emergency release features allowing rapid removal if the situation changes or complications arise.

The goal is never punishment, but protection—ensuring the safety of the individual, caregivers, and bystanders while maintaining respect for human dignity.