North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

How often must an officer observe inmates when making rounds?

1. Once an hour

2. Two times an hour

3. Three times an hour

4. Every minute

The correct answer is: Two times an hour

The correct frequency for an officer to observe inmates during rounds is two times an hour. This standard is often recommended to ensure the safety and security of both the inmates and the facility itself. Observing inmates at this interval allows officers to monitor behavior, check for any potential issues or emergencies, and maintain a visible presence within the living areas. This practice is crucial in mitigating risks such as self-harm, fights among inmates, or attempts to escape. While more frequent observations, such as every minute or three times an hour, could enhance safety, they may not be feasible or necessary in many situations, imposing excessive demands on officer resources and potentially leading to fatigue. Observing once an hour may also allow for too much time between checks, increasing the risk of unmonitored incidents occurring. Therefore, two times an hour strikes a balance between adequate monitoring and manageable workload for officers.