Correctional institutions
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Toilets shall be completely separated from the remainder of the cell in cells for multiple
inmates in order to comply with hygiene standards and safeguard human dignity.
2.5.8.3 Right to privacy when giving urine samples
On a visit to Dornbirn satellite facility, several inmates claimed that they had
been observed by prison guards while giving urine samples. A mirror for the
indirect observation of the urine sample is not fitted – contrary to standard
practice – in the toilets.
No mirrors
The Federal Ministry of Constitutional Affairs, Reforms, Deregulation and
Justice responded that the detainees are searched prior to giving the urine
sample. The urine sample is then given alone and without direct supervision.
This “gentle” approach means that it is not necessary to fit a mirror.
The decree for providing a urine sample gives the detainees a choice. The
detainee can decide if he would prefer to make the urine sample under direct
supervision or undergo a body search in advance.
Approach not
conformant with the
decree
The NPM therefore recommends fitting a mirror in each toilette where urine
samples are normally given and informing the inmates about their choice in
this matter.
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2.5.9
The detainees can choose whether they would prefer an indirect observation when
giving a urine sample or being searched beforehand. Exercising this right of choice shall
not be impeded by inadequate structural conditions.
Contact to the outside
2.5.9.1 Visiting time
Detainees should have the opportunity to maintain their relationships with
family and friends. Regular contact to the outside world is a major contributor
to the resocialisation process. The visiting times should enable working persons
or school-age children to visit prisoners. The NPM considers it advisable that
detainees can be visited at least on one workday including in the afternoon or
in the early evening as well as at the weekend.
The institution management shall set the visiting times for four weekdays
including at least once in the evening or at the weekend. The management
of the correctional institution therefore has the choice to allow visits in the
evening hours or at the weekend. Legal provisions permit either one evening
visit or the opportunity to visit at the weekend; this is merely the minimum
Needs-based visiting
times
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