Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Study Guide

What characterizes Restrictive Housing (RH) placement?

1. Inmates share cells with others

2. Inmates are confined to a cell for 22 hours or more

3. Inmates participate in daily outdoor activities

4. Inmates are allowed frequent visits from family

The correct answer is: Inmates are confined to a cell for 22 hours or more

Restrictive Housing (RH) placement is characterized by a high level of confinement and isolation for inmates. This specific option highlights that inmates are confined to a cell for 22 hours or more each day, which is a defining feature of Restrictive Housing. The primary purpose of such placement is often to ensure safety within the facility, whether for the individual inmate, staff, or the overall population, especially in situations involving behavior management or protective custody. In contrast, sharing cells with others would suggest a less restrictive environment, where inmates have more interaction, which is not typical in RH settings. Daily outdoor activities and frequent visits from family are generally not permitted in this type of housing due to the heightened security measures and the aim to minimize risks that might arise from contact with others. Therefore, the emphasis on prolonged confinement is fundamental to understanding what constitutes Restrictive Housing.