Commonly Asked Questions About Correctional Equipment
The prison system in the USA holds over 1.9 million people with thousands of staff as well. With that said, these prisons need equipment just like any other establishment. However, it is not just any standard items; correctional facilities require tailor made pieces to meet strict guidelines. What are the guidelines really?
In this article, we will review 5 of the most common questions about correctional items. Let’s start with the #1.
1. What Exactly is Correctional Equipment?
In simplest terms, correctional equipment is where kitchen equipment has been modified from standard models to be suited for use primarily in correctional facilities. The definition varies from manufacturer to manufacturer – but one thing remains true: all equipment in a prison kitchen must be durable, with no exposed parts that can be broken off, stolen or used as a weapon.
2. What Are Some of the More Specific Features?
To break it down even further, here are the 5 main features that every correctional item must have:
a. All-Welded Construction: This is the big one. All items must have welded joints and/or hinges so nothing can be broken off & potentially be used as a weapon. All welded construction also increases the durability so more weight can be supported.
b. Heavy Duty Stainless Steel: Lower gauge stainless steel is a must. 14 Gauge stainless steel is the most common, but can vary.
c. Stationary/Flanged Legs Plus Fixed Shelves: Mobility must be kept to a limit. This means equipment must be bolted to the floor using flanged legs. All shelves in a cabinet must be fixed in place.
d. Tamper Proof Screws: Not just any screw will do. You will need tamper proof screws that must be removed/inserted using a special screwdriver.
e. Locks: If your items are equipped with doors, locks must be used as well.
3. What IMC Equipment can be Converted for Correctional Use?
IMC offers a handful of specific items that can be outfitted with a correctional package:
1. Floor Troughs – IMC floor troughs are converted by using all welded construction. Grating is also secured in place with tamper proof screws & a frame. For more information, check out the product page here for more specifics.
2. Hand Sinks – IMC hand sinks also use all welded construction & the faucet is specially designed to be a push button type & vandal resistant. Tamper proof screws are used to secure the access panel.
3. Mop Sinks – All IMC mop sinks include a strainer that is secured in place with tamper proof screws.
4. Shelving – All posts are welded to the body of the shelving. Also, flanged feet are used to secure shelving in place. Model #SSS is IMC’s own security shelving product made especially for these applications.
5. Cabinets – Every IMC security cabinet comes with a slanted top to discourage any storage on top of the cabinet. Additionally, hinges are welded in place. A mesh covering is used on the doors for easy visual of all contents. Fixed shelves are used. Lastly, all doors are equipped with locks.
Upright cabinets (Model #SC-SEC) come with mounting tabs so the cabinet can be secured to the wall.
4. Any Other Considerations?
At the end of the day, equipment should work for you. This is true even for correctional products.
Correctional items must be able to withstand all harsh cleaning methods (such as high pressure washing) & chemicals. It also must be easy to clean with non-porous surfaces.
Consider the layout of your kitchen. Choose equipment that fits your space & has the capacity to handle the volume.
Lastly, safety & health of inmates & staff is paramount. This is why equipment should meet food safety & sanitation standards set by your local codes.
Overall, correction equipment is made for the long term so the construction & features adhere to this. It is crucial to select equipment that will 100% follow all correctional & safety guidelines before they are put into use. For a closer look at our security product lineup, click here.