What is meant by "Acceptable Use of Force" for boarding officers?

The concept of "Acceptable Use of Force" for boarding officers refers to the principle that force should only be employed when it is absolutely necessary to achieve compliance with lawful orders. This approach emphasizes the importance of de-escalating situations and exhausting all other avenues, such as verbal communication, before resorting to any physical force.

The intent is to uphold the safety of both the boarding officers and the individuals being boarded, minimizing harm and the potential for escalation into violence. By using force only when absolutely necessary, boarding officers can maintain control of the encounter while also adhering to legal and ethical standards governing their conduct.

This understanding is crucial, as it aligns with the broader framework of law enforcement and military operations where the use of force is heavily regulated to prevent misuse and protect rights. In practice, this means boarding officers are trained to assess each situation carefully and apply only the minimum force required to ensure safety and compliance, reducing the likelihood of injury or conflict.