Iowa Admin. Code r. 201-50.4

Current through Register Vol. 47, No. 10, November 13, 2024

Rule 201-50.4 - Physical plant-general

(1)Building to meet existing codes. All facilities are required to be structurally sound and to meet existing building code and health code requirements.

(2)Professional inspections.

a. The state jail inspector may require for good reason that an agency operating a jail cause it to be examined by an architect, engineer, licensed electrician, health inspector, plumber, heating and air conditioning specialist, food establishment inspector, state fire marshal or fire inspector or any other person with expertise which may be of assistance to the state jail inspector in making an informed decision relative to the jail operation or structure. Inspection by a municipal inspector qualified in these areas may be permitted.

b. Any facility determined to be deficient following inspection may be ordered closed by the jail inspector, or specific conditions limiting its operation may be imposed in lieu of closing.

An order of closure shall contain the following:

(1) Statute(s) and rule(s) violated.

(2) A brief description of the deficiencies.

(3) The effective date of the order

(4) An explanation of remedies required before reopening.

An order of closure shall adhere to subrules 50.3(1) and 50.3(2). This order shall be the notice of noncompliance pursuant to Iowa Code section 356.43 and 201-Chapter 12 concerning contested cases. The matter shall then proceed in accordance with 201-Chapter 12.

c. In the event that any agency fails to cooperate in an inspection, the jail inspector may arrange for an inspection and the agency operating the facility shall be financially responsible for any expense involved.

(3)Heating and ventilation. All detention and living areas shall be reasonably heated and ventilated, with air flow sufficient to admit fresh air and remove disagreeable odors, to ensure healthful and comfortable living and working conditions for prisoners and staff Fans and an adequate supply of cold liquids will be made available and utilized when indoor temperatures exceed 85° Fahrenheit.

(4)Cells. Maximum security cells shall be equipped with tamper-resistant bunks, secured table(s) and seat(s), plus a toilet and washbasin recommended for jail or prison use. Cells shall have an adequate supply of both hot and cold water; mixing valves may be used. Housing areas of less secure design need not contain tamper-resistant fixtures.

(5)Lighting. Lighting shall be a minimum of 20 candlepower at the table top for the purposes of reading and writing. Living areas shall be devoid of dark areas. Hallways, entrances and exits shall be sufficiently lit to observe a person entering or exiting. Light controls shall be out of the control of prisoners. Housing areas may be variably illuminated to allow sleep, but continuous observation of prisoners must be possible. All exits shall be equipped with independent emergency lighting sources.

(6)Screens. If windows are opened for ventilation, screens shall be installed and maintained in good repair

(7)Electrical. Drop cords shall not be used as permanent wiring. Electrical service shall meet the requirements of the governmental body permitted by statute to adopt standards for electrical service. Appliances shall plug directly into a fixed receptacle. Emergency generator power shall be available. Emergency generator power shall be tested at regular intervals not less than monthly. A record of test dates shall be maintained.

(8)Storage.

a. Storage of any type in primary detention areas is not permitted except for supplies necessary for the operation of the jail.

b. Adequate storage space for prisoners' personal clothing and property shall be provided. Space provided shall be secure, and the prisoner's name or identification number shall be affixed to the storage space. Property shall be inventoried and accounted for as provided in Iowa Code section 804.19.

c. Janitorial supplies shall be stored in a manner to prevent unauthorized prisoner access. Janitorial supplies and equipment shall not be stored in prisoner living areas.

d Areas used for storage of chemicals, paints, and cleaning supplies shall not be accessible to prisoners and such products shall be stored away from the primary detention area. Such storage shall not be in boiler or furnace rooms.

(9)Mirrors. Mirrors within detention areas shall be of tamper-resistant construction and securely fixed in place.

(10)Firearms lockers. A place inaccessible to prisoners shall be provided where officers entering the security area can store firearms.

(11)Noise level. Prisoner noise inside the jail shall be controlled to ensure an orderly and secure jail operation. Jail policy shall include a rule pertaining to noise level. Prisoners must be advised of the rule.

Iowa Admin. Code r. 201-50.4

ARC 9578B, lAB 6/29/11, effective 8/3/11