By 1812Blockhouse
The Richland County Board of Commissioners met last week to discuss several initiatives aimed at improving inmate safety, jail operations, and county personnel policies. Among the key topics were the introduction of new health-monitoring technology for inmates and updates to the jail’s intake and medical screening processes.
OverWatch Monitoring System for Inmate Health
During the meeting a captain from the Richland County Jail presented information about the OverWatch monitoring system. This new technology is designed to enhance inmate health monitoring by using a wearable bracelet that tracks vital signs such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and skin temperature in real-time. The system is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing staff to monitor these metrics from devices throughout the jail and through an alert system linked to designated cell phones.
The initial plan includes purchasing ten of these bracelets at a cost of $41,000 for the first year, with an annual fee of $24,000 for continued use. The technology, which originated in California and has gained traction in other states, is expected to provide an additional layer of safety for inmates, especially those identified as critically ill. The benefits of the OverWatch system were noted as providing an extra layer of protection for those under the jail’s care.
Expanded Medical Screening Procedures in Jail
In addition to the OverWatch system, the Richland County Jail has recently updated its medical intake procedures to provide a higher level of care for inmates. New protocols now require jail staff to conduct a 25-question medical assessment upon inmate arrival, along with more frequent and detailed screenings by medical staff.
The jail has also introduced direct supervision units for critically ill inmates and a bi-weekly Critical Care meeting, involving medical staff, mental health liaisons, and other key personnel to review the treatment of inmates with serious health concerns. These updates are part of a broader effort to adapt the jail’s operations to better meet the needs of a sicker inmate population.
Funding the New Initiatives
The Commissioners confirmed that the cost of the OverWatch system would be covered through funds from the inmate commissary, which includes revenues from inmate purchases, phone calls, and video services. This decision ensures that the system will be financially sustainable without impacting the general county budget. In response to questions about future costs, It was also noted that if more than ten bracelets are needed, each additional bracelet would cost approximately $750, with potential increases in associated cloud service fees.
Updates to Richland County Personnel Policies
The meeting also highlighted updates to the county’s personnel policy manual, the first comprehensive overhaul since its creation in 1984. This update includes new provisions on public records management, driver eligibility, and compliance with state and federal employment laws. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort. These updates aim to improve clarity and consistency in personnel management across county departments.
Image by mcmurryjulie from Pixabay
