Behind Bars: Rookie Year - is it for real?

One scene shows a CO absentmindedly leaving a gate unlocked and an inmate walking out and going to who-knows-where while being filmed! No lockdown was ordered! (REALLY??) Later, this inmate is located; after having gone over (UNESCORTED!!!)to speak to his councelor.
Having worked in a prison for 9 years, I can tell you that an inmate cannot freely walk around (much less go in & out of secured areas on his own volition).
So, I'm wondering if these scenes are set up to make the show more exciting?