Safety checks shall be made and documented at least every thirty (30) minutes. A safety check shall be made every fifteen (15) minutes when a cell contains other than general population inmates, such as minors, mentally ill inmates, or high risk inmates. These safety checks shall not be made at exact intervals. Random checks prevent the development of predictable patterns of behavior on the part of deputy personnel.
Personnel shall conduct these checks by looking into rooms/cells and shall look at the inmate(s) for obvious signs of distress (e.g., bleeding, trauma, visible injury, choking, difficulty breathing, discomfort, etc.). There should not be any doubt regarding an inmate’s condition; personnel shall attempt to illicit a response from the inmate. If unable to illicit a response from the inmate, call for backup, as proper officer safety practices shall be observed at all times. A supervisor shall be contacted, as well as, medical staff, if needed.
Maximum visual supervision of inmates by personnel is required. The viewports are to remain uncovered at all times with the exception when there is a need for separation to preserve the identity of an inmate or during tactical deputy operational issues. If it is necessary to close or cover a view port, there must a written approval from the Branch Supervisor, Sergeant, or above.
Juvenile safety checks shall be made and logged every fifteen (15) minutes.
Refer to CCR Title 15, 1006 - Definitions