In the challenging and often dangerous environment of correctional facilities, ensuring the safety of staff members is of paramount importance.
Correctional officers, as well as professional visitors such as lawyers, nurses, and maintenance personnel, face risks daily while working behind locked doors. One crucial tool in enhancing staff safety is the implementation of duress alarm systems.
What is a Duress Alarm System?
A duress alarm system is an emergency notification and communication system designed to instantly alert security personnel when a staff member requires assistance. These systems typically consist of personal alarm transmitters (PATs) carried by staff and receivers installed throughout the facility. When activated, the PAT sends an ultrasonic signal to the nearest receiver, immediately identifying the individual in distress and their precise location.
The Importance of Duress Alarms in Correctional Facilities
Correctional facilities are inherently high-risk environments, with staff members facing threats from inmates on a daily basis. In fact, correctional officers have one of the highest rates of work-related injuries among all U.S. workers. Implementing a duress alarm system provides an additional layer of security, allowing staff to quickly summon help in emergency situations.
The Case of Grace Pinson
The importance of duress alarms in correctional facilities is exemplified by the case of Grace Pinson, a transgender woman who was assaulted while housed in a men’s prison in Tucson, Arizona. In 2019, Pinson was brutally attacked by a male inmate, and despite other inmates’ attempts to alert staff by kicking on their cell doors, help arrived too late. Pinson suffered serious injuries and had to be hospitalized.
In her lawsuit against the Department of Justice, Pinson argued that the lack of functioning duress alarms in the cells contributed to the severity of the incident. The presiding judge agreed, stating that duress alarms are the only reliable means for inmates to notify staff of emergencies occurring within their cells.
Implementing Duress Alarm Systems with Jet Hotel Solutions
At Jet Hotel Solutions (www.jethotelsolutions.com), we specialize in providing and installing duress alarm systems for various settings, including correctional facilities. Our systems feature state-of-the-art technology that ensures reliable and accurate emergency notifications:
- Ultrasonic Signal Technology: Our PATs emit an ultrasonic signal that is not susceptible to interference from other devices or environmental factors, minimizing false alarms.
- Immediate Detection and Location: When activated, our system instantly identifies the individual in distress and their precise location within the facility.
- Flexible Activation Options: Staff can activate the PAT using a push button, pull ring, or an optional man-down feature that automatically triggers an alarm if the wearer is in a prone position for an extended period.
- Easy Installation: Our receivers can be flush-mounted on walls or ceilings, and we offer battery-powered options that require no rewiring of the building.
By working with Jet Hotel Solutions to implement a duress alarm system, correctional facilities can take proactive steps to ensure the safety of their staff members. Our expert team will work closely with your organization to design and install a customized solution that meets your unique needs and budget.
In conclusion, duress alarm systems are an essential component of staff safety in correctional facilities. By providing an immediate and reliable means of summoning help during emergencies, these systems can help prevent incidents like the one experienced by Grace Pinson. To learn more about how Jet Hotel Solutions can help enhance safety in your correctional facility, contact us today at www.jethotelsolutions.com.