US · guidance
BOP Program Statement 5577.01 § 4
USING THE OC AEROSOL SPRAY
The OC aerosol spray is a less-than-lethal inflammatory agent derived from a pepper
biodegradable resin. As an inflammatory agent, it causes a burning sensation on the skin;
tearing and closing of the eyes; and swelling of the mucus membranes. The MK-4 aerosol
spray is the 3-4 oz. full cone spray pattern. Under ideal conditions, the full cone spray has an
effective range of 10 to 12 feet. The MK-9 OC spray has an effective range of 18 to 20 feet, far
greater than the range of the MK-4 OC spray issued to all staff. Wind speed and direction greatly
affect the accuracy and range of both the MK-4 and MK-9 OC aerosol sprays.
5577.01 3/19/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 4
5577.01 3/19/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 5
Prior to any OC aerosol spray being used, staff must attempt verbal intervention to defuse
the situation when feasible. Good communication skills can frequently eliminate the need for
an elevated response. The use of chemicals such as OC is outlined in the Program Statement
Use of Force, Application of Restraints, and Firearms.
History
PS 5577.01 dated 2026-03-19
Provenance
- Source
- bop.gov
- Retrieved
- 2026-09-20
- Edition
- bop-ps-2026-09-20
- Content hash
e7f35a37648b2f63a494f8c0cb7233af262082e598110ee65e146301dbaad00b
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