Which of the following actions is required for maintaining security during headcount?

Maintaining security during headcount is critical for ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff, as well as verifying the population within the facility. A direct observation of each inmate's presence is paramount because it allows staff to confirm not only that the inmates are present but also their physical condition and behavior at that moment. This thorough method allows for the identification of any issues, such as medical emergencies or discrepancies in headcount numbers.

Other options would compromise security. Allowing inmates to roam freely could lead to increased risks and a disorganized environment, making it difficult to ensure all inmates are accounted for. Counting only visible inmates may result in missing those who could be hiding or not in sight, leading to inaccuracies in the count. Relying solely on automated systems overlooks human oversight, which is essential in identifying unusual behavior or emergencies that a system might miss. Therefore, a direct observation is the most reliable practice for maintaining security during headcount.