National Preventive Mechanism 2.5.9 The furnishings of three-person inmate cells – Linz correctional institution Two bunk beds in three-person cells During a visit to the Linz correctional institution in late summer 2013, the commission noted that three-person inmate cells were consistently furnished with two bunk beds, which – in combination with the arrangement of the windows, which did not permit inmates to look outside – intensified the impression of constriction. Remodelling causes consolidation According to the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Linz correctional institution lost space for 35 male inmates due to the establishment of a department for female inmates. For this reason, two bunk beds were set up in each of the eight three-person inmate cells in Department 1 and eight three-person inmate cells in Department 2 (previously each of these inmate cells had a bunk bed and a single bed). The single beds were temporarily converted into bunk beds using a push-fit system. Each of these inmate cells has a total area of 19.5 m2, or 57.4 m3. Under the factual situation (occupancy), the prison administration is endeavouring to restore the original condition in the threeperson inmate cells, i.e. one bunk bed and one single bed. In the view of the NPM, the loss of inmate cells cannot justify setting up two bunk beds in three-person inmate cells of this size. Even if the room size permits, there must be sufficient natural light and fresh air supply in addition to the available space; see also the (CPT) Report on Austria from 15 to 25 February 2009, GZ 311363/2009, CPT/Inf(2015)5. Inmates must have the opportunity to spend a reasonable part of the day outside of the cell. The approach may be temporary, but having four persons occupy these inmate cells is not an appropriate placement at the Linz correctional institution due to the spatial constriction. ¾¾ Furnishing a three-person inmate cell with two bunk beds should be avoided due to the possible overcrowding of the cell. 2.5.10 Specially secured cells in questionable condition – Feldkirch correctional institution, Dornbirn field office Abandoned inmate cell In the Dornbirn field office of the Feldkirch correctional institution the members of the commission noted two isolation cells in the basement, which, according to the commanding officer, were currently no longer in use. One isolation cell was being used to store cleaning agents. Safety hazard The commission considered the condition of the two specially secured cells questionable. There were many corners and edges. If these inmate cells were occupied, the risk of injury would be great. 162