Correctional Guard Onboarding Checklist

Correctional Guard Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Correctional Guard starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Security onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Correctional Guard, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Correctional Guard onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Correctional Guard Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The first task for a new correctional guard is to attend an orientation session. This session provides an overview of the company’s policies, procedures, and expectations. It is usually conducted by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Facility Tour: A comprehensive facility tour is essential for a correctional guard to familiarize themselves with the layout, security systems, and key areas of the correctional facility. This task is typically performed by a senior correctional guard or a supervisor.

3. Introduction to Staff: It is crucial for a new correctional guard to meet and be introduced to their colleagues and supervisors. This task helps establish relationships, promotes teamwork, and facilitates communication within the correctional facility. The supervisor or a designated staff member usually performs this task.

4. Uniform and Equipment Issuance: A correctional guard needs to be provided with the necessary uniforms, equipment, and personal protective gear. This task involves fitting the guard for uniforms, issuing badges, radios, handcuffs, and other essential equipment. It is typically performed by the supply or equipment department.

5. Training: Comprehensive training is vital for a correctional guard to perform their duties effectively and safely. This task includes both classroom and practical training on topics such as security procedures, emergency response, inmate management, and self-defense techniques. Trainers or experienced correctional guards conduct this training.

6. Policy and Procedure Review: A new correctional guard must thoroughly review the facility’s policies and procedures to ensure they understand and comply with them. This task involves studying the employee handbook, security manuals, and any other relevant documents. The correctional facility’s training department or human resources department typically oversees this task.

7. Security Systems Familiarization: Correctional guards need to be familiar with the various security systems in place within the facility, such as surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and access control systems. This task involves training on how to operate and troubleshoot these systems. It is usually conducted by the facility’s security department or IT department.

8. Emergency Response Training: Correctional guards must be prepared to handle emergencies such as riots, fires, medical emergencies, or escapes. This task involves specialized training on emergency response protocols, evacuation procedures, and first aid/CPR. Trainers or experienced correctional guards typically conduct this training.

9. Inmate Management Training: A crucial aspect of a correctional guard’s role is managing inmate behavior and maintaining order within the facility. This task involves training on effective communication techniques, conflict resolution, and de-escalation strategies. Trainers or experienced correctional guards usually conduct this training.

10. Use of Force Training: Correctional guards need to be trained on the appropriate use of force when dealing with potentially violent or non-compliant inmates. This task includes training on self-defense techniques, the use of restraints, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding the use of force. Trainers or experienced correctional guards typically conduct this training.

11. Health and Safety Training: A new correctional guard must receive training on health and safety protocols to ensure their well-being and that of the inmates. This task includes training on personal protective equipment usage, infection control, and emergency medical procedures. Trainers or the facility’s health and safety department typically conduct this training.

12. Shadowing Experienced Guards: To gain practical experience and learn from experienced correctional guards, new guards should be assigned to shadow them during their shifts. This task allows new guards to observe and learn from experienced colleagues, understand the daily routines, and gain insights into effective inmate management techniques. Senior correctional guards or supervisors typically oversee this task.

13. Performance Evaluation: Regular performance evaluations are essential for correctional guards to receive feedback on their performance, identify areas for improvement, and set goals. This task involves conducting performance reviews, discussing strengths and weaknesses, and providing guidance for professional development. Supervisors or the human resources department typically perform this task.

14. Ongoing Training and Professional Development: To stay updated on industry best practices and enhance their skills, correctional guards should participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities. This task involves attending workshops, seminars, and online courses related to corrections and security. The training department or human resources department typically facilitates this task.

15. Team Building Activities: To foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among correctional guards, team-building activities should be organized. This task involves planning and executing activities such as group exercises, team challenges, or social events. The human resources department or a designated team-building coordinator typically performs this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Correctional Guard checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Correctional Guard up to speed and working well in your Security team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.