Prison officer

What Exactly Is a Prison Officer?

A prison officer (PO) or corrections officer (CO), often referred to as a correctional law enforcement official or prison guard, is the backbone of maintaining order and safety within our penal systems. But have you ever wondered what it truly means to be one? These uniformed professionals are entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing prisoners, ensuring their well-being, and upholding the law.

Historical Context

Throughout history, terms like ‘jailer,’ ‘guard,’ or ‘warder’ have been used to describe these roles. But as societies evolve, so do our titles. In different parts of the world, you might hear them referred to as:

• Prison officer (UK and Ireland)
• Corrections officer (U.S. and New Zealand)
• Correctional police officer (New Jersey)
• State penal police agent (Brazil)

The Role of a Prison Officer

Prison officers are the unsung heroes who keep our correctional facilities running smoothly. Their duties span from maintaining order and supervising activities to preventing disturbances and assaults. They must be vigilant, assertive, and ready to handle any situation that might arise.

Daily Duties

Prison officers are responsible for:

• Maintaining order and supervising activities
• Preventing disturbances and assaults
• Protecting inmates from harming themselves or committing suicide
• Searching inmates and living quarters for potential threats
• Remaining assertive and refusing to back down in most situations

An officer must hold offenders accountable for violating facility policy through on-the-spot corrections or the legal process. Their role is multifaceted, requiring a balance of authority and compassion.

Health and Safety

Correction officers must prioritize health and safety by monitoring unsanitary conditions, fire hazards, and potential tampering or damage to locks and gates. Ensuring the well-being of all individuals within the facility is their top priority.

Transportation Duties

In addition to their daily responsibilities, corrections officers transport inmates to other facilities, medical appointments, court appearances, and approved locations. This requires a high level of organization and attention to detail.

The Training Ground

Training for prison officers varies by jurisdiction and facility but typically includes:

• Use of force and restraints
• Weapons
• Self-defense
• First aid and CPR
• Report writing
• Giving testimony in court
• Defusing hostility
• Interpersonal communication

Additional training may include:

• Suicide prevention/crisis intervention
• Mental health awareness
• Critical incident stress management
• Gang intelligence
• Hostage negotiation
• Crisis or hostage negotiation
• Drug abuse training
• Rehabilitation programs
• Rapid response training
• Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (PREA)
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

Most institutions have a crisis resolution team that must pass a physically and mentally demanding tactical academy or training course. This rigorous preparation ensures they are ready for any challenge.

The Human Side of Corrections

Behind the uniform, prison officers face complex emotional challenges. Research by Tracy (2004) highlights the layers of emotionality that correctional officers must navigate daily. Their work is not just about enforcing rules but also about understanding and managing the diverse needs of inmates.

The Future of Corrections

As our society continues to evolve, so too will the role of prison officers. The integration of technology, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs aims to create a more humane and effective correctional system. These professionals play a crucial role in this transformation.

Conclusion

The work of a prison officer is multifaceted and demanding. They are the guardians of our justice systems, ensuring order and safety while also providing care and support to those within their custody. Their dedication and resilience make them true heroes in an often-overlooked field.