How many inmates must be housed on a floor to require a dedicated corrections officer for that floor?

The requirement for a dedicated corrections officer on a floor is based on the need to ensure adequate supervision and safety for both the inmates and the staff. When a minimum of ten inmates are housed on a floor, it becomes necessary to assign a specific officer to that area to manage the inmate population effectively.

This threshold helps maintain order, address any potential issues that can arise with a larger grouping of individuals, and ensure that emergency responses can be enacted quickly if needed. Having a dedicated officer enhances oversight and can lead to improved management of inmate behavior, as well as better communication with other staff members in case of incidents that require intervention or reporting.

While lower numbers might not necessitate a dedicated officer, having ten inmates is seen as a critical mass that could lead to complications in supervision. Thus, it is essential for correctional facilities to have this standard in place for maintaining a secure and safe environment.