What does a paper/board count involve in correctional settings?

In correctional settings, a paper/board count refers to the process of matching names on the Criminal Justice Information Management System (CJIMS) unit list to individual offenders present in the facility. This procedure is essential for maintaining accurate records of incarcerated individuals, ensuring their safety, and managing facility security. By verifying the presence of each offender against the official unit list, correctional staff can quickly identify any discrepancies, such as missing individuals or unauthorized movements within the facility. This practice directly contributes to operational efficiency and accountability within the correctional environment.

The other options do not capture the comprehensive nature of a paper/board count. Checking against physical documents alone does not utilize the electronic systems that are crucial for accurate tracking. An informal check in common areas lacks the systematic approach needed for ensuring the full population of the unit is accounted for. Counting only new arrivals disregards the importance of tracking all individuals within the correctional facility, failing to provide a complete picture of the inmate population.