What should be the focus when conducting counts in a penal institution?

The focus when conducting counts in a penal institution should primarily be on the safety of the inmates and staff. This emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all individuals within the facility are accounted for and safe. A count is a critical procedure that serves multiple purposes, including maintaining order, verifying that no one is missing, and preventing disturbances. Prioritizing safety helps to create a secure environment, allowing for effective management of inmates and reduction of potential risks.

Focusing on safety means that officers need to stay vigilant, be aware of their surroundings, and handle any situations that may arise during the count appropriately to prevent incidents. While other factors, like the number of officers present, efficiency of the process, and time taken to complete the count, are important considerations, they are secondary to ensuring a secure environment for everyone involved. Safety lays the foundation upon which all other operational aspects can be effectively managed.