NCJ Number
177596
Date Published
1998
Length
385 pages
Annotation
This manual is intended as an information resource to help jurisdictions create better and more effective jails of up to 200 beds in size, through an understanding of the important elements and concepts of successful jail design.
Abstract
The manual is intended for use by those who operate and design small and medium-sized jails and by other local officials. The initial chapters provide background information and discuss the characteristics of good pre-design planning. The bulk of the manual consists of information about the design of small and medium-sized jails, beginning with the major considerations shaping the overall design approach and continuing with detailed information about the various functional components, as well as about special design issues. Topics include site selection and design, exterior and interior image and appearance, classification and separation issues, surveillance and supervision, and staffing impact. Additional topics include the security perimeter, the interface with other parts of the criminal justice system, functional components and relationships, design standards, and planning for expansion. Further topics include master control, intake and release, general housing, special housing, health care, visiting areas, exercise areas, programs and services, the inmate commissary, food service, the laundry area, the administration and public areas, staff areas, and storage areas. The manual's final section discusses some of the crucial activities that must occur during design and construction to make a facility an operational success. Figures, photographs, and user feedback form