BOP Program Statement 5525.01 § 3

a. Lockdown. A lockdown should be used only when less restrictive measures such as modified

operations are not feasible due to the scope and complexity of the precipitating incident and/or

information discovered during the initial investigation. Ordinarily these incidents involve

security-based threats which have broad threat implications and cannot be easily isolated without

further intelligence review and action.

The use of a lockdown should be limited to the time necessary to isolate and contain the

precipitating event or emergency, until lesser restrictions such as modified operations, or a return

to normal operations, can be implemented.

b. Modified Operations. To the extent possible, and to ensure the safety, security, and

operational continuity of the institution, modified operations—targeting limited movement,

programs, and services within specific housing units or departments— should be used whenever

verified intelligence and known facts indicate a threat risk can be isolated to a specific area.

The institution must prioritize these localized interventions over institution-wide lockdowns to

minimize disruption to unaffected populations, maintain essential inmate services, and ensure

staff safety.

These localized interventions may include, but are not limited to, securing individual housing

units, restricting normal movement schedules for isolated areas, or modifying normal

programming and services within specific areas to control an isolated threat risk.

c. Situations Requiring Lockdown or Modified Operations. Lockdowns or modified

operations may be initiated for various reasons. Some examples include, but are not limited to:

■ Major Disturbances or Riots. To regain control of the institution and prevent unrest from

spreading throughout the institution or complex.

■ Escapes or Suspected Escapes. To restrict all movement while staff conduct emergency

counts and investigate potential breaches of the perimeter.

■ Violent Incidents. Response to stabbings, homicides, or attacks on correctional staff; these

often require a lockdown to secure the crime scene and prevent retaliatory violence.

5525.01 5/7/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 3

■ Critical Infrastructure Failure. Loss of power, loss of radio or emergency communications,

malfunctioning security cameras, or technical issues with locking systems leaving areas of

the institution vulnerable.

■ Extreme Weather/Natural Disasters. Responses to earthquakes, fires, or severe weather

conditions that make it unsafe to maintain inmates in general movement areas.

■ Contagious Disease Outbreaks. To prevent the transmission of highly infectious illnesses

particularly when institution-level transmission reaches high levels.

■ Mass Contraband Searches. To conduct comprehensive searches for weapons, drugs, illegal

communication devices, or other contraband without the risk of items being passed or hidden

during movement.

■ Ongoing Investigations. To gather intelligence or conduct interviews following an incident

to determine if further unrest is planned.

■ Broad Publicity Security Events. During high-profile media events such as civil unrest or

other events which could potentially trigger institution demonstrations or disruptions.