The S. C. Department of Corrections currently operates thirty-two prisons statewide, maintaining custody of over 21,000 inmates. The Department of Corrections operates institutions based on three security levels. Security levels are determined by the type of internal and external security features, housing within the institution, and the degree of staff supervision required. All units provide a strong educational and work component. These units are work and program oriented providing intensive specialized programs which prepare the inmates for release to the community.
Housing is mainly double bunk, open-bay wards with unfenced perimeters.
Level 1-B are minimum security institutions housing inmates with relatively short sentences or time to serve. Housing is mainly double bunk cubicles with unfenced perimeters. These institutions provide a higher level of security than other minimum facilities. These are medium security institutions. Housing is privarily double bunk, cell type with some institutions having double-bunk cubicles.