MONITORING PLACES OF DETENTION : A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR NGOS 105 MATERIAL CONDITIONS Good living conditions in prison are essential for the preservation of the detained person's human dignity. Living areas, food, and hygiene are all factors which contribute to the detainee’s well-being. Among the detention conditions, the problem of overcrowding is certainly the most important, above all because it has a negative influence on all other aspects of detention and on the general climate in the establishment. When it reaches certain levels, overcrowding can even constitute inhuman or degrading treatment. Material Conditions ■ Food; ■ Lighting and ventilation; ■ Sanitary facilities; ■ Personal hygiene; ■ Clothing and bedding; ■ Overcrowding and accommodation. 3