MONITORING PLACES OF DETENTION : A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR NGOS 75 It is not reasonable to try to examine all aspects of the conditions of detention systematically during each visit. An analysis of the information collected in preparation for the visit will provide orientation for defining the objectives and priorities of the visit. During the first visits, one can concentrate on the state of the material infrastructure: buildings, cells, common facilities. Once this has been established, it is suggested that the visitors pay closer attention to the following aspects: • the complaints systems within the places of detention; • the management of disciplinary punishments; • contacts with the outside world; • medical care; • the relation between staff/management and detainees. This chapter presents point by point the different elements which should be examined during a visit, ordered according to theme. These apply mainly to detention in prisons. At the end of the chapter, however, certain aspects specific to detention by the police are looked at. The aim of this chapter is to provide a practical tool giving rapid access to the international standards on conditions of detention and an overview of the various factors to take into account during visits.