While inmates were waiting to appear via video link, a scuffle between two men at Risdon Prison’s maximum security unit could be heard by those sitting in the court room.

Risdon security guards appeared on screen and told the court two inmates “had a go” at each other outside of the video link room and a “cease all movement” had been declared.

It is understood capsicum spray was used on at least two prisoners.

One of those prisoners appeared on the video link shortly after the incident and told the court he had been sprayed and his face was “on fire”.

Another prisoner appeared shaking, with redness around his eyes. 

The court was forced to reshuffle its list while loud voices and arguing could be heard in the background of the video link for more than an hour.

A Tasmania Prison Service spokeswoman confirmed two prisoners had been involved in a “physical altercation”.

“A response was called and OC spray was deployed to minimise risk of injury to staff and prisoners,” they said.

“No injuries were sustained by the prisoners involved in the incident.”

Capsicum spray has been used seven times at Risdon Prison so far this financial year.