Report of the Commissioner for Human Rights on the activities of the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture in Poland in 2017 Direct coercion measures should be used based on a case-by-case assessment when there are premises justifying such an action. Those measures should be necessary for obtaining certain objectives (the principle of necessity) and proportionate to the scale of threat and minimization of problems (the principle of proportionality)28 The method of addressing detainees The NMPT also had some reservations concerning the way security officers address the detained (using their surnames or on a first-name basis without the polite form - sir)29. It is important to address persons who are dependent on us with respect. Otherwise, it is easy to cross the line. Such conduct helps to build a positive atmosphere in the place of detention. Promoting constructive relations between detainees and personnel, in contrast to confrontational ones, serves the purpose of reducing tension that is present in every prison, and hence, it significantly reduces the risk of violent incidents and associated illtreatment. In other words, the Committee would like the control and restrain measures to be adopted in an atmosphere of understanding and care. Such an approach may – paradoxically – increase safety on the prison premises” (CPT)30 The NMPT recommendation: Appropriate method of communicating with prisoners needs to be ensured. 28 Article 6(1), Article 11, Article 12(1) of the Act of 24 May 2013 on the use of direct coercion measures and firearms (consolidated text: Dz. U. of 2017, item 1120) 29 Prison in Herby 30 CPT Second General Report, CPT/Inf (92) 3, Article 45 19