NCJ Number
70859
Date Published
1980
Length
57 pages
Annotation
This report discusses the problems State and local prison and jail administrators are having in providing safe and humane environments for inmates and proposes methods by which these problems can be resolved.
Abstract
Environmental health factors studied included fire prevention, protection, and control; occupational accident and disease prevention; food preparation and handling; personal and institutional hygiene; and other environmental conditions such as ventilation, noise, light, temperature, air quality, and water quality. Data were collected through examination of health and safety inspection reports, site visits, discussions with agency and corrections officials, and examination of court records on conditions of confinement cases. Detailed analyses were conducted for six States: Connecticut, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Ohio. Results indicated that unsafe, unsanitary coonditions in many State prisons and local jails endanger the health and well-being of inmates, correctional staff, and visitors. Although inadequate funding has been a significant cause of these conditions, improvements involve more than increased funding. Correctional institutions need adequate maintenance programs, trained personnel, and inspection programs which can detect deficiencies and ensure that they are corrected. Although the responsibility for improving conditions rests primarily with State and local governments, five Department of Justice agencies are in a position to help willing State and local officials improve conditions in their correctional institutions. Recommended actions and appended comments from the Department of Justice are included.