I have worked in many prisons and local detention centers in the last 11 years. Take as few tools as needed into the place. Tool lists and counts take time. Lost time is a major problem with these jobs.When we bid these projects we figure 5 1/2 productive hours out of an 8 hour day The fixtures are heavy and require extreme mounting methods . Getting from one place to another can turn into a real experience. Keep track of every thing; tools, materials , even tape.If I have a lot of items ; drills, lights, tools, ladders etc. I will use a flat cart or two. If you only have 1 escort, making more then 1 trip to get things does not work, AN officer must be with you and the tools / materials at all times. So if you must leave to retrieve something everything must go with you and your escort unless you are lucky to have 2 escorts.( I've never been that lucky )
I bought a set of tamper proof tips on e-bay for $6.00. 33 tips in all - fit every light and screw in the prison. (Type in security tips in the search box at ebay)
The officers do not like to be called Guards, they are correctional officers and like to be referred to as officer.
Prison work is not that bad really. Just remember the inmates are human beings just like you. Some will sense if your nervous and razz you others you will find to be extremely smart !
The company I work for during the week has made a ton of money off the prison system in Maryland. For the last 11 years we always have at least 1 project going at a prison.I spent 1/2 of- 2002 , all of 2003 & 2004 , and 1 /2 of 2005 working between 2 prisons.
