Perf-Based Stds, Adult Corr. Inst. 5th ed March 2021

Part 2: Physical Plant

Washbasins 5-ACI-2C-07 (Ref. 4-4138)

Inmates have access to operable wash basins with hot and cold running water in the housing units at a minimum ratio of one basin for every 12 occupants, unless national or state building or health codes specify a different ratio. Comment: Provisions must be made for inmate access in cell or sleeping areas, dayrooms, and other parts of the facility. The requirement of an approved ratio is designed to assure that inmates have adequate access to meet their basic needs.

Protocols : Facility plans/specifications.

Process Indicators : Observation. Maintenance records.

5-ACI-2C-08 (Ref. 4-4138-1)

(New Construction after June 2014). Inmates have access to operable washba- sins with hot and cold running water in the housing units at a minimum ratio of 1 basin for every 12 occupants. These ratios apply unless any applicable building or health codes require additional fixtures.

Comment : None.

Protocols : Written policy and procedure. Facility plans/specifications. Applicable building codes and regulations.

Process Indicators : Observation. Inmate housing records. Measurement. Mainte- nance records.

Showers 5-ACI-2C-09 (Ref. 4-4139)

Inmates have access to operable showers with temperature-controlled hot and cold running water, at a minimum ratio of one shower for every 12 inmates.Wa- ter for showers is thermostatically controlled to temperatures ranging from 100 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the safety of inmates and to promote hygienic practices. These ratios and temperatures shall apply unless national or state building or health codes specify a different ratio. Comment : Offenders can use scalding showers as a weapon against, or punishment for, other inmates. Also, accidental injury could occur when cold water is drawn in other areas, thereby unexpectedly elevating the hot water in showers to scalding temperatures. Water temperatures below 100 degrees Fahrenheit are uncomfort- able and may deter an individual from pursuing good hygienic practices. The tem- perature controls should not preclude the use of water at higher temperatures, if needed, in other areas of the institution, such as kitchens.

Protocols : Written policy and procedure. Facility plans/specifications.

Process Indicators : Observation. Measurement. Inspection reports. Maintenance records. Documentation of periodic measurement of water temperature. Inmate grievances. Inmate interviews.

58 Adult Correctional Institutions, Fifth Edition