MONITORING PLACES OF DETENTION : A PRACTICAL GUIDE 97 This chapter presents the different elements which can be examined during a visit. It aims at providing a practical tool that gives rapid access to the international standards on conditions of detention, and guidance as to what to look for on the ground. Areas that may pose particular difficulty for visiting mechanisms are highlighted, as well as some strategies for dealing with these. The ’points of reference’ given at the end of each sub-section are not exhaustive, and it is envisaged that visiting mechanisms will develop their own checklists based on the particular needs of the system to which they are attached. 16 This Charter is a draft prepared by the CESCA. 17 This Declaration is for the time being a Draft prepared by Penal Reform International and sponsored by the Costa Rican government.