Guidance on Environmental Conditions of Detention

‘Environmental conditions’ refer in particular to the sensory environment in places of detention. Four aspects are discussed here: sound, light, temperature and air. ‘Detention’ means any situation in which people are deprived of their liberty. These environmental conditions of detention cover prisons, remand centres, and secure accommodation for children. They are also relevant for other sites of detention, such as asylum reception centres, hospitals and care homes when detention is mandated. This brief offers clarity on how existing rules of detention apply and explains why the environmental conditions of detention warrant further consideration.

Four key elements: sound, light, temperature, air.
While the environmental conditions of detention must be considered as interconnected, each impacting the other, this section explores specific issues, concerns and potential impacts of four key elements.