In correctional facilities, a major role of the correctional officer is to:

The primary responsibility of a correctional officer is to ensure safety and security within the correctional facility. This encompasses maintaining order among the inmate population, protecting inmates and staff from potential harm, and preventing escapes or disturbances. The safety and security role is foundational, as it directly influences the overall environment of the facility and the effectiveness of any other programs or objectives, such as rehabilitation or education.

While other roles such as overseeing inmate rehabilitation, managing grievances, and conducting educational programs are important, they often depend on a secure environment first. Without safety and security, the risks associated with rehabilitation and education increase significantly, making it difficult for correctional officers to fulfill these other responsibilities effectively. Therefore, ensuring safety and security is recognized as a core function of correctional officers, which supports the overall management of the facility.