SECTION 351.5. Supervision

(a) Gender.

(1) If residents of both genders are housed within the short-term detention facility, short-term detention officers of both genders shall be on duty and available to the residents for every shift.

(2) Short-term juvenile detention officers of one gender shall be the sole supervisors of residents of the same gender during showers, physical searches, pat downs, disrobing of suicidal youth, or during other times in which personal hygiene practices or needs would required the presence of a short-term detention officer of the same gender.

(b) Ratios.

(1) The short-term juvenile detention officer to resident ratio shall not be less than 1 short-term detention officer to every 8 residents.

(2) An individual hired as a short-term detention officer may count toward meeting the detention officer to resident ratio under subsection (b)(1) of this section so long as the individual:

(A) has received training in recognizing and reporting abuse, exploitation and neglect;

(B) has been certified in

(i) first aid;

(ii) cardio-pulmonary resuscitation; and

(iii) a TJPC approved physical restraint technique; and

(C) has received training on the contents and implementation of the suicide prevention plan.

(c) Level of Supervision.

(1) When present outside of their rooms, residents shall be in the constant physical presence of a short-term detention officer.

(2) Private visitation between one resident and an attorney, authorized visitor or clergy does not require the constant physical presence of a short-term detention officer.

(3) When residents are placed inside of their rooms, the short-term detention officer shall:

(A) visually observe each resident at staggered intervals not to exceed 15 minutes; and

(B) document each observation made with the time of the observation and a general description of the resident's behavior.

(d) Communication. At least one short-term detention officer on every shift shall carry on their person two-way radio communication with local law enforcement.

(e) Technology. Video and audio monitoring devices shall not substitute for supervision by short-term juvenile detention officers.

Source Note: The provisions of this §351.5 adopted to be effective September 1, 2003, 28 TexReg 2953