What are prefabricated cells?
It is also called a prefabricated modular jail system SteelCell. A prefabricated prison cell is made off-site, and is then shipped on to the site. Prefabricated cells are ready-to-install with bunks, lights, sinks and toilets.
The prefabricated detention cells, in contrast to traditional jail construction which uses masonry then equips it with the appropriate elements, are self-contained, made with a thick gauge of rust resistant steel. Transported on trucks, they are then placed in place using a crane. They can also be stacked for multiple-story construction.
What are some of the benefits to prefabricated detention units?
Time. The fact that each unit can be produced at a single factory means there is a chance to gain some efficiencies. Production of jail cells is done simultaneously with the building foundations, which saves time.
Space. Steel panels are thinner than conventional concrete walls. The prefabricated units of jails are a great solution for construction sites with space limitations.
Foundation requirements. Prefabricated precast steel cells can be lighter than conventional concrete units, so they may require fewer foundations.
A more streamlined process. After construction is underway, it’s easier to work with different vendors since the manufacturers of prefabricated cell units include most of these features into their product. It will be easier for a construction manager to manage the vendors and contractors involved in furnishing, installation, materials, etc.
What are disadvantages prefabricated detention cell?
Cost. In the Upper Midwest you could expect to pay as much as one third more for a county jail using prefabricated jails than masonry construction. If you take into account the savings in labor time for construction crews however, it may not be as significant.
Shipping. Shipping. Since most prefabricated cells for jails are produced in the south of the United States, freight charges can vary depending on their distance. Most semi trucks can carry up to 4 units. If you need 50 cells, this could add up.
Carbon footprint. Carbon footprint. Every ton produced by steel emits about 1 ton in greenhouse gases. Additionally, the over-the-road transport of these units produces emissions. In general traditional jail construction has long been considered as a sustainable model.
The noise levels. When compared to traditional masonry wall, steel core walls create loud echoes and can cause a lot of disturbance in other areas. It is not uncommon for inmates to pound on walls or close detention door, making other sounds. This can create an uncomfortable atmosphere among other inmates as well as correction officers.
Limited flexibility. It can sometimes be years before a large jail project is completed. Updates can affect the design during that period. It is easier to adjust to changes with traditional construction. There is no way, for instance, to adjust HVAC hookups if they need to move six inches due to mechanical chase configurations if prefabrication was done at the factory.
Use prefabricated detention cells when it is most appropriate?
If time is of the essence it may be worth using prefabricated prison cells. It could save you up to six months when it comes to a construction timeline. In the case of a grant that needs to spent before a particular deadline, the savings in time could be very beneficial. In other cases, a faster finish may be required to meet an immediate need such as a pressing concern for the safety of inmates or to alleviate overcrowding.
prefabricated cell systems are also appropriate for areas with high population density like downtown districts or places where buildings are close by. It is possible to minimize the noise by lifting each prefabricated cell from a semitruck.
Because they can pose challenges, portable jail cells are most often used during new construction and not in renovations.