TestWiki:Blocking policy

While blocking is a common occurrence on the testwiki, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when performing and removing blocks.

Test blocks

Blocks that are made for testing in general should be short. No more than 2 hours is a good rule of thumb, save for on accounts that are your own. When testing blocks on another user's account, it is best to get that user's permission to perform the test before doing so. Even so, please be sure to leave a note on the user's talk page explaining your tests.

Serious blocks

In general, administrators and bureaucrats should not be making serious blocks, except in rare circumstances. It is acceptable to block a user for spamming on the project or for vandalism, but not much else. If you believe a user should be blocked for other serious reasons, either request so on the Community portal, or approach a consul directly. Please be sure to supply a good reason for the block, whether you request it or make it. Failing to do so could be considered harassment on your part.

Appealing

Blocks that have been made for a serious reason may be appealed to in three common places. The first is that a blocked user may appeal directly on their talkpage. Second, a third user may make a request on the blocking admin's talk page. Third, a request may be made on the Community portal that the block be lifted.

When appealing a block, be sure to address the reason that the block was placed. If it is against policy, state so.

Unblocking

Do not remove or modify serious blocks unless:

• The user has made a successful unblock appeal and a consul has given the go ahead for an unblock. In cases such as these, a consul will generally be the one to remove the block.
• The blocking admin has given you the go ahead.
• The block should have been made by a consul but was in fact made by an administrator who was not a consul at the time.

Don't

While generally blocking is no big deal since anyone can unblock themselves, there are still things you should not do. When in doubt though, use common sense.

Threaten

Blocking or threatening to block a user who is in a disagreement with you is unacceptable. Users who use the block button as leverage in a dispute, even against other administrators, or who excessively block other users, may find their rights revoked.