Corrections facilities should be places that encourage healing and recovery. There are plenty of ways to design facilities that are both safe and comfortable for occupants.
Learn some of the top ways to make corrections facilities safer for occupants and staff.
1. Building design
The very first factor to consider when designing a corrections facility is building design. There should be no sharp edges, metal corners, or other design features that could pose a threat. However, keep in mind that you can design a corrections facility to be comfortable by using calming colors and relaxing designs. Just avoid any building aspects or designs that could be a potential danger in the future.
2. Dangerous items
Staff or officers should remove all dangerous and potentially hazardous items from occupants and their rooms. Anything that can be used as a weapon should never enter occupants’ spaces. A corrections facility should promote healing—never violence.
3. Safe furniture
Another way to make corrections facilities safer is to use safe furniture. This means that any furniture should be lightweight, durable, and made without joints or metal pieces. There are plenty of advantages of molded plastic chairs in corrections facilities. They are durable, comfortable, virtually unbreakable, and made without metal pieces or sharp points.
4. Supervised technology
Connection to the outside world is important for occupants. Technology allows occupants to video chat with loved ones, play games, research, write, and connect with others via social media. To ensure that occupants use technology safely and responsibly, staff should supervise technology usage at all times.
5. Officer training
Finally, officer training and staff training are necessary to create a safe and functional corrections facility. Staff members should undergo continual training to ensure that everyone is up to date with the latest safety procedures and protocols. This additional training will help ensure not only the safety of the staff but also the safety of the occupants.
