Corrections and COVID-19 safety
- In order to prevent the introduction, transmission and spread of COVID-19 in prisons, detention centers and the surrounding communities, adequate preparedness plans must be in place.
- A risk assessment should be completed and action plans developed to mitigate the risks.
- Attention should be given to:
- The availability and supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), hand hygiene and sanitation/disinfection products.
- Set up decontamination procedures.
- Staff and prisoner training and awareness on hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette (i.e. covering mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing), physical distancing and signs and symptoms of COVID-19.
- Signage posted where possible to promote safe hygiene practices.
- Provide clear communication to staff and inmates regarding steps being taken to control the spread of the virus.
- Use multiple holding cells rather than single cells.
- Wipe down and disinfect shared equipment (i.e. tools, pushcarts) as well as high touch surfaces and objects (i.e. chairs, door knobs).
- Environment, engineering and administrative controls such as physical distancing (i.e. serving food in cells; splitting out-of-cell times), acceptable air exchange, routine disinfection and the proper use and disposal of PPE.
For further resources visit:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
WHO: Preparedness, prevention and control of COVID-19 in prisons and other places of detention 2020
