How often must all unsentenced maximum and medium security inmates be observed by an officer?

The requirement for maximum and medium security inmates to be observed every 30 minutes is rooted in maintaining safety and security within detention facilities. This regular observation serves multiple purposes: it ensures the well-being of the inmates, aids in the prevention of self-harm or harm to others, and allows officers to quickly respond to any emergency situations that may arise.

By implementing a 30-minute observation policy, correctional facilities can better monitor inmate behavior and conditions, thereby upholding their duty of care. This timeframe strikes a balance between thorough monitoring and the practicalities of workflow for detention staff, enabling them to remain vigilant while managing other responsibilities.

In contrast, the other options suggest either too frequent or infrequent observations, which could compromise inmate safety and institutional security. Observing every 15 minutes may not be feasible given the constraints of staff resources, while once per shift would not provide adequate monitoring for the dynamic and sometimes volatile environment within a detention facility. Hence, the 30-minute interval is the established standard to ensure a safe and secure atmosphere for both inmates and staff.