A corrections officer, correctional officer, detention officer, jail guard, prison guard, prison warder, or a prison officer is a person charged with the responsibility of the supervision, safety and security of prisoners in a prison, jail, or similar form of secure custody. Historically, terms such as jailer (also spelled jailor or gaoler), and turnkey have also been used.

These officers are responsible for the care, custody, and control of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial while on remand or who have been convicted of a crime and sentenced to serve time in a prison or jail. They are also responsible for the safety and security of the facility itself. Most prison officers are employed by the government of the country in which they operate, though some are employed by private companies.

Duties

The duties of a correctional officer can vary, but they often include:

• Maintaining order and discipline within the institution
• Enforcing facility rules, regulations, and applicable legislation
• Searching inmates and environs for contraband
• Transporting inmates to courts, other correctional facilities, or into the community (e.g. medical appointments, escorted day-pass, etc.)
• Providing first-response in the event of riot, fire, medical emergency, etc.
• Tactical response for ongoing emergencies, such as riot, hostage taking, or other major crisis