COVID-19 has introduced significant challenges and disruptions to everyday life, affecting nearly every aspect of our routines. From mandated social distancing to the widespread closure of businesses, the pandemic has left no stone unturned. Its ripple effects are felt across all sectors.

The complexities of managing health protocols, maintaining safety, and ensuring effective communication have become paramount in corrections facilities. Staff members face unique challenges as they navigate not only their regular duties but also the heightened stress and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic. As we adapt to this new reality, it's crucial to recognize the stress COVID-19 has on both the workforce and the populations they serve.

A few questions we’ve received recently are: “Is there value in the old-fashioned shift briefing?” “Should we still get together?” and “What are some ways we can pass on information without gathering in large groups?”

Is There Still Value in Getting Together in a Group and Passing on Information?

Absolutely. Shift briefings are an invaluable part of ensuring that communication flows from one shift to the next. Historically, this has been one of the biggest concerns. One shift does things one way, while another shift does it another way, and who benefits from this inconsistency? The inmates. They often play one shift against another—first shift against second shift, evening shift against night shift. Therefore, passing information from one shift to the next is essential.

Even if you have a small facility, make sure you spend at least five to ten minutes passing on information to the next group taking over the facility. If you have a large facility, it’s even more important to ensure that information is shared.

However, a couple of points are worth noting. First and foremost, don’t make your shift briefings about information that keeps getting repeated over and over. For example, “Remember, this Saturday we’re having a bake sale at six.” If you keep mentioning it for three or four days, that information won’t be retained and will likely be forgotten.

Make sure the information is relevant and important to the people in the room. Involve them by having them repeat it back to you. Ensure they understand and acknowledge the information you’ve shared. Don’t just drone on; confirm that they heard you and that they received the information.

How Do We Get That Information Without Gathering Together in a Tight Area?

So, what are some options? One is to use a platform like Slack, which is just one of many available tools that shift supervisors can use to share information with everyone involved in that channel.

Another option is to utilize voicemail. The facility can set up a voicemail system that everyone can call in to listen to. For example, the shift supervisor could arrive 30 minutes early, gather the necessary information, and record a voicemail. Then, staff can call in to access that message.

Final Thoughts

Yes, it can be done, and these are indeed pieces of information that should be passed on. We live in a technological age, so we want to utilize the technology available to us.

1. Use voicemail, as we all have cell phones or answering services available.

2. Slack, or another cloud-based communication and collaboration platform for businesses to have a centralized form of communication.

3. Communicate via email and ensure everyone reads it by using a read receipt to confirm that they have seen the information.

4. It’s still important to come together as a team. Consider meeting in a larger space, such as a parking lot, with ample room for social distancing—keeping six to eight feet apart.

Get the information out in whatever way you choose, whether it's old-fashioned methods or modern technology. Voicemail, printed materials, and Slack are all excellent options. The key is ensuring that communication is effectively passed on.

If you have any other questions or comments, feel free to reach out to support@guardianrfid.com. As always, remember to Get Your Team Home Safe.