A new investigation by CBC's the fifth estate and Radio-Canada's Enquête has shed light on the use of spit hoods in Canada, revealing a landscape of inconsistent policies and potential dangers. These mesh-like devices, designed to prevent individuals from spitting or biting, are used in various settings, including correctional institutions, juvenile detention centers, hospitals, and even by some ambulance services. The investigation found that spit hoods are used on both adults and children across every province and territory.
The investigation identified 17 fatal incidents involving spit masks in Canada over the last two decades, with misuse suspected in nearly every case. Despite these risks, there is no federal or provincial authority that has independently verified the safety of these devices. Regulations vary significantly, and in some regions, like Nunavut and Yukon, there are no policies on spit hood use in jails. Training is not always mandatory, and tracking of spit hood usage is inconsistent.
Michael Arruda, a retired police officer and use-of-force expert, emphasized the need for specific training on spit mask use. He stated that those without proper training might not be aware of the potential consequences. Concerns have also been raised by human rights groups, with Amnesty International declaring the use of spit hoods on youth as akin to torture. New Brunswick is the only province to have discontinued the use of spit hoods in provincial jails following the death of an inmate in 2020.
The RCMP, which has used spit hoods since 2003, considers the device "essential" due to the risk of biological contamination. However, studies suggest that the risk of transmitting diseases like HIV through spitting is negligible. As the debate over spit hood safety and regulation continues, the spotlight is on Canadian authorities to ensure the safety and human rights of all citizens.
