Pepper Spray Course

Online Pepper Spray (O.C.) Training Course

Course Overview:
This online Pepper Spray course provides professional-level training on the safe, legal, and effective use of O.C. (Oleoresin Capsicum) as a defensive tool within the private security industry. The course is offered 100% online for convenience and accessibility, allowing students to complete training at their own pace.

Contrary to many misconceptions, you are not required by State or Federal law to be sprayed with O.C. to carry or use it. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) does not require students to be exposed to pepper spray for certification, and even the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued statements indicating that intentional O.C. exposure during training poses unnecessary health risks. For that reason, this academy no longer conducts live exposure training.

Unfortunately, many instructors and schools still conduct exposure-based training, unaware of these safety warnings. This course reflects current, research-based standards and updated safety practices, ensuring that all students receive modern, fact-based instruction free from unnecessary risk.

Texas Legal Clarification:
Both armed (Level III) and unarmed (Level II) private security officers in Texas may legally carry pepper spray. Some DPS materials and handouts have been misinterpreted to suggest otherwise, but Texas Penal Code §§46.01 and 46.05 make this clear.

Under §46.01(14), the term “chemical dispensing device” specifically excludes “a small chemical dispenser sold commercially for personal protection,” which is precisely what pepper spray is. Therefore, pepper spray does not fall under the restricted category.

Furthermore, §46.05(f) and §46.05(g) confirm that trained security officers—both commissioned and non-commissioned—may lawfully carry O.C. spray for defensive purposes. The law explicitly includes “a commissioned security officer (armed)” and “a noncommissioned security officer (unarmed)” as defined under the Texas Occupations Code.

In short:

You do not need to be a Level III officer to carry O.C. spray.

There is no separate TX DPS O.C. license required.

Completion of this certified training course fully satisfies Texas Penal Code requirements for lawful possession and use of pepper spray by security officers.

Course Purpose:
The purpose of this course is to provide professional security personnel with:

A clear understanding of O.C. spray composition, function, and deployment.

The knowledge to safely and effectively use O.C. spray in accordance with Texas law.

The ability to make sound, lawful decisions under pressure.

The skills to decontaminate and care for affected individuals following exposure.

Upon successful completion, each student will receive a Pepper Spray (O.C.) Training Certificate, serving as proof of professional-level training recognized under the Texas Penal Code and DPS Private Security guidelines.

Course Topics:

Legal Disclaimer

Seven False Points About O.C.

What is O.C.?

The Heat of O.C.

The History of O.C.

Factors That Affect O.C.

Common O.C. Deployment Errors

The Effects of O.C.

Additional Information About O.C.

Types of Spray and Spray Patterns

When Can You Use O.C.?

General Use and Guidelines

Decontamination

Reporting

Care and Maintenance

Final Quiz

Course Format:
This is a fully 100% online, self-paced training course consisting of reading materials, instructional videos, and scenario-based questions. A final quiz is required for certification.

Certification:
Students who successfully complete the course and pass the final quiz will receive a Pepper Spray (O.C.) Certificate of Completion via email. This course is designed exclusively for:

Licensed or registered Security Officers

Correctional Officers

Bodyguards

Protective Service Professionals

This course is not designed to certify peace officers for law enforcement agency use and is not intended for civilian or public training outside the security profession.

Disclaimer:
This training is for professional educational purposes within the security industry. Students are responsible for complying with all employer, state, and local regulations regarding the use and possession of pepper spray.