A correctional officer is a part of the Criminal Justice System of Canada and is bestowed with the responsibility of maintaining security in the correctional facilities of the country. A custodial officer not only maintains stability in the public jails and prisons but also addresses the day to day concerns of the inmates and aids the process of making them law-abiding citizens.

To apply for the position of a correctional officer, a candidate needs to possess a secondary school diploma or score satisfactorily on the Public Service Commission test. The candidate also needs to retain a valid certification in Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Level C. Beyond these educational qualifications, the applicant also needs to meet the physical and the psychological requirements for the position.

These qualities are crucial for a candidate to carry out the job duties of a correctional officer responsibly. Here’s a closer look at how a custodial officer maintains safety:

Directs Inmates

Although the job duties of a correctional officer vary depending on the scale and the type of facility that they are placed in, regular supervision of inmates is a responsibility allotted to every officer. The officer needs to monitor the inmates constantly and look for signs of unusual or suspicious behavior. He/she needs to make sure all the rules and regulations are being followed appropriately and the inmates are not engaging in any criminal activity.

Handles The Prison Logistics

Another important responsibility of a correctional officer is to keep an accurate and detailed record of the prison activity. This entails taking a thorough head count on a regular basis and inspecting the inmates for the possession of hazardous materials. The database of the prison needs to be updated frequently and all the necessary credentials of the convicts like fingerprints and personal details must be stored properly.

Another important aspect of this responsibility is to add information about newer inmates and clear the backlog for ones who have left the facility. The correctional officer also needs to maintain a written record of each convict’s behavior and conduct.

Maintains Security

Maintaining amity and safety in a correctional facility is the most important duty of a custodial officer. It is obligatory for the officer to guard the parameters of the prison, check the use of locks, conduct recreational activities in the facility and invigilate behavior of the inmates. The officer also needs to be well versed with the protocols of emergency and should be able to diffuse any argument or crisis that may take place at the facility.

Upholds Custodial Legislation

It is one of the job duties of a correctional officer to be knowledgeable of the regulations of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and ensure that its provisions are implemented in the facilities. He also needs to make sure that an inmate’s visitor rights are supported and the callers do not possess any perilous materials during these visits.

Becoming a correctional officer is the perfect opportunity for individuals who wish to serve their country and work towards the betterment of society. Inclusive programs like Columbia College’s Justice and Public Safety Diploma can help you become a correctional officer with ease. Visit our website to apply now or consult our experts to know more about these courses.