Avalon Unit Order 12

Subject: Inmate Safety Checks

PURPOSE OF ORDER:

The purpose of the order is to set forth policies and procedures governing inmate safety checks for all inmates housed at Avalon Sheriff’s Station.

SCOPE:

This order shall apply to all personnel assigned to patrol or the station jail, as well as supervisory personnel conducting inmate safety checks.

DIRECTIVE:

To comply with state regulations and to act in conformance with existing Custody Division policy regarding inmate safety checks, the following shall be conducted:

Frequency of the Inmate Safety Check

All inmates housed in the station jail shall be visually observed and counted at least once every half hour. An hourly check shall be conducted of the inmate worker and all checks shall be documented on the Jail Inspection Record. Such inspections and counts shall be indicated on the record immediately upon completion of the jail check.

Inmate Safety Check Defined: Nature and Quality

On-duty patrol personnel and station jailers have the ultimate responsibility for safeguarding inmates and ensuring the security and well-being of those confined to the jail facility.

Station jail and supervisory personnel shall conduct periodic, visual checks to look for the following:

Signs of life such as breathing, talking or body movement: AND signs of distress such as difficulty breathing, injury, bleeding or other behavior indicating the individual's welfare may be in jeopardy.

Personnel shall visually inspect each inmate from a reasonable distance and inspect the general area for any items obstructing their view. If there is doubt about an inmate’s condition, personnel shall attempt to elicit a response from the inmate. If the inmate is non-responsive,

then personnel shall immediately adhere to Emergency Alarm Activation and Supervisory Notification Procedures set forth in Avalon Station Unit Order #11.

Inmate Safety Check Documentation

All inmate safety checks shall be recorded as manual entries on the Jail Inspection Record with the time, date and name of the person who conducted each check. Additionally, total jail counts shall be records in the E-UDAL at the beginning, middle and end of each shift. If station jail personnel, during their assigned shift, are unable to conduct an inmate safety check, a supervisor or deputy shall be notified and advised that assistance is required.

On-Duty Sergeant Responsibilities

The on-duty Sergeant has the responsibility for the immediate supervision of the jail operation. He shall regularly observe and supervise the jail operations during his shift.

The on-duty Sergeant shall ensure required inmate safety checks are being conducted and properly documented.

The on-duty Sergeant shall record their "Supervisor Checks" in the E-UDAL twice per shift.

  Frequency of Inmate Safety Checks and Inmate Classification

Updated: May 31, 2023