Correctional institutions XX  Video interpreting systems should be obtained for all specialised services, for the admission area and the administrative penalty unit. XX  When there are communication problems, trained interpreters should be utilised. Inmates should not be used as interpreters. XX  The video interpreting systems should be made available in all infirmaries and used without exception. 2.5.9 Living conditions The NPM’s observations regarding the living conditions of inmates are many and diverse. Some examples are provided below. 2.5.9.1 Lock-up times and work and employment opportunities Since commencing its activities in July 2012, the NPM has tirelessly called Structural weakness attention to the nationwide structural problems at penal institutions due to excessive lock-up times and inadequate work and employment opportunities for inmates (see NPM Report 2012, p. 24 et seq.; NPM Report 2013, pp. 54 et seq.; NPM Report 2014, pp. 83 et seq.; NPM Report 2015, pp. 106 et seq.; NPM Report 2016, pp. 117 et seq.). In 2017, the NPM was once again confronted with inadequate employment opportunities and rigid lock-up times. For example, it found numerous days Criticism remains the same on which companies providing occupational opportunities at Graz-Jakomini and Vienna-Josefstadt correctional institutions shut down their operations. The lock-up times and employment situation for inmates at Krems correctional institution were also worthy of criticism. While the employment situation for juveniles at Gerasdorf correctional institution is very encouraging most of the time, many companies close during the summer months at this facility, too. Unfortunately, the establishment of a well-balanced employment regime for detainees awaiting trial in prisons operated by the regional courts continues to be a special problem. Less favourable treatment of deainees awaiting trial The NPM reiterates its recommendations on these matters from past years (see the NPM’s recommendations in chapter 3.5). Employment and activity programmes must be expanded, and lock-up times must be reduced. 135