Md. Code Regs. 16.18.02.03

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 24, December 2, 2024

Section 16.18.02.03 - Use of Locked Door Seclusion

A. A facility employee may not place a youth in locked door seclusion as punishment.

B. A facility employee may place a youth in locked door seclusion only:

(1) When it is clearly necessary to protect the youth or other individuals or to prevent escape; and

(2) After less restrictive methods have been tried or cannot reasonably be tried.

C. Time Limitations.

(1) A youth may not remain in locked door seclusion more than 24 hours without the review and approval of the superintendent or the duty officer, who shall provide a written explanation for the decision. If one of these administrators was involved in the incident, the other one makes the determination.

(2) After the decision has been made to keep a youth in locked door seclusion for more than 24 hours, the youth shall be seen by the superintendent or the duty officer at least once during each 12-hour period.

(3) The maximum stay in seclusion as a result of a single incident may not exceed 72 hours, unless a declared written emergency is issued by the superintendent.

D. Release. A youth shall be released from locked door seclusion when the youth no longer fits the criteria for placement in locked door seclusion.

Md. Code Regs. 16.18.02.03