Officers in a master control room regulate movement in and out of the pods and have complete electronic command of the jail. By being inside the pod with the inmates, officers can anticipate problems and deal with them proactively, resulting in a safer jail. In the old jail, officers could only react to problems as they occur. Most correction officers find their work to be more rewarding and less stressful in direct supervision jails, according to Sheriff Todd. The security glass walls and shape of the living areas allow officers to observe all inmates continuously.
Special training is required for correction officers in direct supervision jails.
The training involves several levels of instruction, including the philosophy behind direct supervision, policy and procedures, simulations, and operation of the electronic control panels.