The protection of both prisoners and prison security staff is a concern for any correctional facility. In 1984’s Hudson v. Palmer case, the United States Supreme Court ruled that prisoners have no reasonable expectation of privacy in their prison cells that must be protected by the fourth amendment. However, there are several reasons smart window tinting use in a correctional facility setting increases safety and security for both prisoners and correctional facility staff.
Privacy Concerns in a Prison Setting
It is key for correctional facilities to develop safety protocols and guidelines for violence prevention. It is also important for safety protocols to be implemented with the goal of intervening and circumventing scenarios which could lead to problems in the facility. While the traditional barred cell with no privacy is still in use, in recent years many correctional entities have been constructed with features that allow some privacy to inmates.
Why would a correctional facility desire privacy controls?
- Allows inmates to change clothing without fear
- Stops communication between sleeping quarters
- Decreases likelihood that an inmate exhibiting signs of emotional disturbance or violence will pass this reaction to neighboring inmates, resulting in a larger problem
This is sometimes accomplished via the use of blinds or similar treatments. However, the lowering or raising of these treatments can take more than 30 seconds. This window of time sounds brief, but can be adequate time to create a problem, communicate a drug-related interaction, or provoke unrest from nearby inmates. ElectraTint’s smart provides privacy in 400 milliseconds, eliminating those risks.
The provision of training to correctional officers on the prevention of violence often includes the application of nonphysical methods to prevent or control disruptive behaviors. Correctional officer training should also address security issues designed to inhibit drug and gang-related violence. Health care professionals who treat prisoners are uniquely positioned to help identify and prevent violence. The use of smart window tinting in prison healthcare settings not only protects patient privacy but strengthens the ability of health care professionals to interact with patients securely and can help prevent violence in custodial settings.
The ability for staff to immediately prevent the spread of unruly behavior protects both employees and inmates. At the same time, staff is able to monitor inmate actions immediately when needed. ElectraTint’s experience in correctional facility settings provides our clients with a turn-key safety solution. Smart window tinting is an investment in safety that is beneficial to everyone involved.