Virginia Law

Part V. Secure Local Correctional Facilities Design and Construction

Article 1
General Design Requirements

6VAC15-81-500. Secure local correctional facilities design and construction - general.

A. When designing the facility, consideration shall be given to appropriate traffic patterns, groups of functions, facilitating ease of movement to and within functions, clear sightlines to reduce blind spots, efficiency and economy of staffing, PREA, and facilitating a smooth, logical sequence of operation.

B. The reviewing authority may accept materials and systems documented to be equivalent to those required by this chapter.

C. Any deviation requiring a modification or variance of this chapter shall be submitted for review by the reviewing authority and approval by the Board of Corrections.

D. In addition to the minimum requirements, this chapter contains recommendations regarding design, construction, and security that, although not required, should be given serious consideration.

E. The reviewing authority may make recommendations regarding design, construction, and security that, while exceeding minimum requirements, may be desirable to adopt.

F. Review or inspection by the reviewing authority does not relieve the owner or owner's agent from the requirement to comply with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-510. Separation of males, females, and juveniles.

A. Secure housing units, intake cells, and special purpose cells shall be designed and constructed to ensure physical separation and to prohibit normal sight or sound communication between males and females.

1. "Secure housing" means housing for all inmates (maximum, medium, and minimum) not classified as community custody.

2. If the facility is designed to hold juveniles, the areas used for juveniles shall be designed to prohibit normal communications by sight and sound and ensure physical separation of the juvenile from the adult population.

B. Separation of internal movement of juveniles shall be in accordance with 6VAC15-40, Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-520. Traffic patterns.

A. If secure and community custody housing are provided in the same building, the design of the facilities shall provide traffic patterns to assure the separation of secure and community custody inmate populations.

B. Design of public access shall be such that the public does not enter into the secure perimeter of the facility, and the traffic pattern for the public shall be separate from that of inmates.

C. The reviewing authority may require that intake, release, and court holding areas be separate and distinct functions and traffic patterns be kept separated from each other. The reviewing authority may require that means of egress for the inmate release area and for the court holding area be separate from the intake and booking area entrance.

D. Exterior pedestrian and vehicular routing shall be designed for separation of traffic patterns.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-530. Related areas.

The following areas shall be outside the secure perimeter:

1. Magistrate offices and law-enforcement lobby (if provided).

2. Parking.

3. Public visitation and waiting area.

4. Armory.

5. Maintenance shop (if provided).

6. Main (primary) mechanical room.

7. Vehicular sally port.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-540. Administration.

A. The jail shall provide space consistent with the size of the facility for administrative, program, and clerical personnel.

B. Space shall be provided within the secure perimeter for the shift or watch commander's office, counselor's office, and other offices that the jail operation requires.

C. Space shall be provided for staff break or dining. Locating staff break or dining within the secure perimeter shall be considered.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-550. Public areas.

A. Public areas of the facility shall be located outside the secure perimeter. Public access to the building shall be through a main entrance. The general public shall not have access inside the secure perimeter of the jail. Traffic patterns of the public and inmates shall be distinct, separate, and not intersect.

B. A reception and waiting area with appropriate informational signage shall be provided for the public and shall be so situated that it does not interfere with the administrative office operations. The public waiting area shall include sufficient seating, drinking fountains, toilet facilities, and weapons lockers equipped with individually locked compartments. Consideration shall be given to provision for public lockers.

C. All exterior areas, including parking, shall be adequately lighted.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-560. Secure perimeter.

The secure perimeter of the facility shall be composed of a complete and continuous security envelope consisting of walls, roofs, ceiling, floors, doors, door locks, and other hardware, windows and glazing constructed in accordance with the security perimeter requirements of this chapter. The secure perimeter shall be clearly indicated on the plans.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-570. Interior security walls, interior partitions.

A. Interior security walls shall be provided around and between all housing units, cells, dormitories, armories, sally ports, central intake units, classification units, control rooms, recreation areas, kitchens, inmate dining halls (if separate from housing), canteens (commissaries), multipurpose rooms with toilets, central laundry, laundry chemical rooms, pharmacies, medical units, records rooms within the secure perimeter, and property rooms. Interior security walls, and opening protectives shall be constructed in accordance with 6VAC15-81-930.

B. Interior partitions.

1. Interior partitions may be provided between support services such as but not limited to multipurpose rooms without adjacent toilets and staff dining.

2. Interior partitions shall not be substituted for required interior security walls.

3. Interior partitions shall be constructed in accordance with 6VAC15-81-930.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-580. Exterior areas.

A. Exterior areas, including parking and building exterior where CCTV is utilized, shall be lighted as recommended by the equipment manufacturer.

B. When landscaping, consideration shall be given to size and density of plantings within 25 feet of the building for security and fire safety reasons.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-590. Fencing.

A. Security fencing or security walls shall be provided for outdoor recreation areas. Exterior building configurations that create containment areas and all other areas shall be fenced as required by this chapter.

B. Access for maintenance shall be provided for all fenced areas.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-600. Emergency containment.

A. Alternate means for inmate containment shall be provided for in case of disaster, mass arrests, or emergency evacuation.

B. These areas may include outdoor recreation area, an enclosed vehicular sally port, or any other approved area that shall afford adequate security.

C. When planned for this purpose, these areas shall provide access to toilets and drinking water. Fixtures and equipment shall meet the requirements for temporary holding.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-610. Armory.

A. Secure storage for security equipment, restraining devices, firearms, chemical agents, etc. shall be located outside the secure perimeter and convenient to security personnel responding to emergency situations.

B. Walls, floor, opening protectives, and roof or ceiling of this area shall meet requirements for secure construction.

C. This area shall have a dedicated exhaust system.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-620. Pedestrian sally ports.

A. Sally ports shall be provided at any point the secure perimeter of the building is penetrated unless specifically exempted by this chapter.

B. Sally ports shall be provided at all exterior openings from security areas and at the entrances to housing units designed for maximum and medium security inmates.

C. Any stairwell with a door that penetrates the secure perimeter shall be constructed as a sally port.

D. For an emergency exits only, an exterior area enclosed with bar grille or woven rod may serve as the second barrier of a sally port. This sally port shall be provided with a top barrier at least equivalent to the vertical enclosure fence mesh and the area is supervised by CCTV.

E. Exterior security doors used solely to meet emergency evacuation requirements are not required to be sally ported, however, fencing the area to be utilized for evacuation is required if no sally port is provided.

F. Commercial grade sectional doors or overhead rolling doors are not considered secure and shall not be part of a sally port.

G. Consideration shall be given to providing weapon lockers equipped with individually locked compartments at the entry of staff and law-enforcement sally ports penetrating the secure perimeter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-630. Vehicular sally port.

A. The vehicular sally port shall be provided with weapons lockers equipped with individually locked compartments.

B. Vehicular sally ports shall be weather protected. As a minimum the lower eight feet of the vehicular sally port walls shall be solid. This sally port shall be separated from adjacent spaces by secure and fire-rated construction and shall be observable by staff with CCTV as backup. If this sally port is to be used for emergency containment, an upgrade of the security level shall be considered.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

Article 2
Central Intake Unit Design, General Population, and Other Areas Design Requirements

6VAC15-81-640. Intake and processing.

A. The central intake unit shall be located within the secure perimeter of the facility, outside the general population housing units and shall be separated from other areas by an interior security wall.

B. The central intake unit shall be constructed to provide the following areas:

1. Booking or processing, including photographing and fingerprinting.

2. Clothing storage and issue.

3. Control room or station.

4. Custody transfer.

5. Intake cells and group cells.

6. Interview.

7. Medical screening.

8. Orientation.

9. Property storage.

10. Provisions for telephone calls.

11. Records storage (if not provided elsewhere).

12. Release and staging for court (if applicable).

13. Strip search and shower.

14. Video arraignment if arraignment is not provided elsewhere.

C. Intake cells and group areas.

1. Space shall be provided for intake of inmates at a minimum of one for every 10 inmates for which the facility is designed up to the first 400 beds of design capacity.

a. Intake cells, group cells, and open seating shall be provided at a ratio of one for every 40 beds of additional design capacity above 400.

b. Consideration shall be made for future expansion.

c. At least 50% of this required capacity shall be single cells with the remainder being a combination of group cells and open seating area. Exception: The number of single cells may be reduced based on approved statistical documentation or needs identified in the needs assessment.

2. Intake cells shall be designed to contain a minimum of 45 square feet for single occupancy cells plus 15 square feet per inmate for each additional inmate for which the cell is designed.

3. Each cell shall contain at least one stationary bench or bunk, hot and cold running water, a combination stainless steel toilet and lavatory with push button metering activators, and a sanitary bubbler.

4. Intake cells shall provide optimized observation of the interior of the cell. Modesty screening is required for toilets in cells with grillage or glazed openings greater than a total of 120 square inches in any cell wall. Exception: An observation cell with flushing floor drain and a bunk sized slab or platform raised a minimum of six inches above floor for sleeping is not required to have a toilet, lavatory, or privacy screening.

5. Lighting in cells, toilets, and showers shall be provided from a maximum security fixture of sufficient intensity to permit sight supervision.

6. Natural light and dayrooms are not required for intake cells or areas.

7. Intake cells shall be constructed as maximum security cells with maximum security doors, hardware, fixtures, equipment, and glazing or bar grille woven rod or combination thereof.

8. Toilets and lavatories shall be provided for use by those in open seating holding. Plumbing fixtures in this area shall be maximum security.

9. Showers shall be provided as follows:

a. For facilities with a design capacity of 200 or less: a minimum of two showers.

b. For facilities with a design capacity of 201 or more: a minimum of one additional shower for every 300 beds, or portion thereof, of additional design capacity.

D. Nonperimeter entrances and exits for the intake and release area shall be capable of being controlled from intake or local control. Security perimeter doors shall be controlled from master control only.

E. Secure storage space for inmate personal property shall be provided adjacent in proximity to the intake or release area.

1. The recommended amount of space is four to six inches of linear hanging space per inmate for which the facility is designed plus one cubic foot in bins or lockers, per inmate, for items that cannot be hung.

2. Consideration shall be given to providing washers and dryers in this area.

F. Release and court holding.

1. Consideration shall be given to separation of traffic patterns and additional holding for inmate release area and for court holding.

2. Number of cells shall be as defined in the needs assessment.

3. Egress for these areas shall be separate from the area serving the intake and booking entrance.

G. Temporary juvenile holding, pursuant to § 16.1-249 G of the Code of Virginia, if provided, shall be as follows:

1. Construction of juvenile cells or units shall be in accordance with this chapter as required for maximum security adult housing.

2. This ward or unit shall be physically, audibly, and visually separated from adult areas.

H. Consideration shall be given to future expansion.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-650. Security levels of housing.

A. Secure housing shall be constructed to provide housing for maximum, medium, and minimum custody inmates. Consideration shall be given to the mental health needs of inmates which may require dedicated housing areas with additional space for mental health professionals, treatment, and counseling. "Secure housing" means housing for all maximum, medium, and minimum inmates not classified as community custody.

1. The basic distribution of custody levels is expected to be 30% maximum, 40% medium, and 30% minimum or may vary based on documentation provided in the needs assessment.

2. Female housing shall consist of at least two separate units of which at least 50% of the female design capacity is medium security or higher.

3. Up to 25% of minimum custody may be community custody. Community custody beds do not require construction of special purpose cells.

B. Maximum security housing units shall be designed as groupings of single cells with dayrooms to afford protection for persons requiring maximum supervision.

1. The number of inmates per housing unit shall depend upon the degree of surveillance and security provided, but for facilities designed for an occupancy of 240 or fewer inmates, the unit shall be designed not to exceed 24 inmates per housing unit. For facilities designed for an occupancy in excess of 240 inmates, the number of occupants for which the unit is designed may be increased but shall not exceed 48 inmates per unit. A minimum of two maximum security housing units shall be provided. For indirect supervision facilities, all units shall be provided with direct visual observation from a control room. For direct supervision facilities, the reviewing authority may require that units be provided with direct visual observation from a control room.

2. 20% to 25% of maximum security cells may be dedicated as a classification unit. The classification unit shall be located in proximity to the intake unit. Consideration shall be given to male and female population. The classification unit shall include at least one private interview room, office space for classification personnel, medical room, and record storage.

C. Medium security housing units shall be designed as single, double, or four-inmate cells with common dayroom. The owner shall determine the number and type of cells per housing unit. The owner shall determine the number and type of cells per housing unit; however, no less than 30% of these cells shall be designed for single occupancy. These units shall be designed to accommodate no more than 64 inmates per housing unit for direct supervision or 48 inmates per housing unit for indirect supervision. At least two housing units shall be provided. For indirect supervision facilities, the reviewing authority may require that all units provide direct visual observation from a control room.

D. Minimum security housing units shall be designed as dormitories or multiple occupancy cells. Minimum security areas shall be designed to accommodate no more than 48 inmates per housing unit in dormitories or 64 inmates per unit with multiple occupancy cells. At least two housing units shall be provided.

E. Community custody facilities shall be constructed in accordance with Part VI (6VAC15-81-1130 et seq.) of this chapter. Consideration should be given to male and female populations.

F. Juvenile housing.

1. If the facility is to hold juveniles, housing units shall be physically, audibly, and visually separated from adult areas to prohibit adult and juvenile communication in accordance with the "Guidance Manual for Monitoring Facilities under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Act of 2002," published by OJJDP in October 2010. Showers, personal hygiene, and dressing areas shall be designed to comply with PREA.

2. Juvenile housing units shall provide general purpose housing designed and constructed in accordance with maximum security requirements of this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-660. Cells and dayrooms.

Maximum and medium security:

1. All single cells shall be sized in accordance with the latest edition of the American Correctional Association Standards for Adult Local Detention Facilities and have a ceiling height no less than eight feet. Single occupancy cells, with the exception of special purpose cells, shall be configured to open into a dayroom or activity space.

2. Multiple occupancy cells shall be designed for no more than four inmates per cell and shall be sized in accordance with the current American Correctional Association Standards for Adult Local Detention Facilities concerning multiple occupancy cells and have a ceiling height of no less than eight feet. Multiple occupancy cells shall be configured to open into a dayroom.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-670. Cell requirements.

A. All cells shall be enclosed within secure walls, floor, and ceiling, as specified in this section, and shall include secure opening protectives. Each cell shall be provided with artificial light, toilet and lavatory fixtures with metering push button activators, hot and cold running water, a security type mirror mounted at standard height, a stationary bed or bunk and storage.

B. Maximum security cells shall have maximum security walls, maximum security doors, fixtures, equipment, and hardware meeting a minimum of ASTM Grade 1 requirements.

C. Medium security cells shall have interior security walls surrounding each housing unit meeting a minimum of ASTM Grade 2 requirements; however, the walls separating individual cells may be interior partitions.

D. Minimum security cells shall have walls, doors, fixtures, equipment, and hardware meeting a minimum of ASTM Grade 3 requirements.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-680. Dayroom requirements.

A. Dayroom space shall contain no less than 35 square feet of space for each inmate for whom the unit is designed to serve. Calculation of this space shall not include sally ports, visitation booths, stairs, area under stairs, toilet, shower, and lavatory areas. On the first level an 18-inch wide path in front of all cell fronts, toilets, and showers, and the tiered walkway in front of upper level cells shall not be counted as dayroom space.

B. Each dayroom shall be equipped with a shower, toilet, lavatory with hot and cold running water activated by metering push button activators, and a drinking fountain or the lavatory equipped with sanitary bubbler. Fixtures shall be security type in accordance with the security level for which the unit is designed.

C. Stationary security type tables and dayroom seating shall be provided in maximum and medium security areas of the facilities designed for indirect supervision. Stationary security type tables and seating shall be provided for facilities designed for maximum security with direct supervision. Tables and seating for medium security direct supervision living areas may be loose but shall be designed for detention facilities and be fire retardant and vandal resistant. In accordance with the Code of Virginia only fixed equipment is reimbursable and loose equipment is not considered reimbursable except in minimum security housing.

D. Tables and seating shall be sufficient to accommodate the number of inmates for whom the area is designed.

E. Stairs in multilevel dayrooms shall have open risers.

F. If a housing unit is provided with an ADA accessible cell, the dayroom toilet shall be provided with an ADA accessible fixture.

G. Showers and toilets shall be located to provide visual supervision from a control station or control room and to provide privacy from the housing unit occupants and from visibility from circulation corridors. Showers, personal hygiene, and dressing areas shall be designed to comply with PREA.

H. If video visitation monitors are provided in the dayroom, they shall be positioned to maximize privacy for both the visiting inmate and visitor.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-690. Dormitory requirements.

A. Dormitories shall have walls, doors, fixtures, equipment, and hardware meeting a minimum of ASTM Grade 3 requirements.

B. All dormitories shall be constructed to provide 85 square feet of space per inmate for each inmate for whom the area is designed. The 85 square feet associated with dormitory space is normally separated into 50 square feet for sleeping and 35 square feet for activity. Calculation of this space shall not include sally ports, stairs, area under stairs, toilet, shower, and lavatory areas.

C. All dormitories shall be provided with artificial light, toilet and lavatory fixtures, hot and cold running water, and a drinking fountain or lavatory equipped with sanitary bubbler, security type mirrors at standard height, tables, and chairs or benches in sufficient number to accommodate the dormitory's design capacity.

D. Tables and seating shall be sufficient to accommodate the number of inmates for whom the area is designed.

E. Showers and toilets shall be located to provide visual supervision from a control station or control room as well as privacy from the housing unit occupants and from visibility from circulation corridors.

F. Stairs in multilevel dormitories shall have open risers.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-700. Natural light.

Natural light is required in general population housing units in new construction. Consideration shall be given to providing natural light in renovation projects that provide new inmate housing.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-710. Artificial light.

A. Artificial light shall be provided in all cells, dayrooms, and dormitories to provide at least 20 foot-candles at personal grooming areas, tables, and desk tops, if desks are provided. Night lighting is required.

B. Light fixtures used within the secure perimeter shall be equivalent to the security level of the area in which they are designed.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-720. Climate control.

Heat and air conditioning shall be provided in all rooms in the facility so that a temperature not less than 65 degrees F or more than 85 degrees F is maintained. Exceptions to this requirement include warehouses, industrial spaces, and mechanical and electrical spaces, which may be mechanically ventilated. Special consideration shall be afforded to additional cooling in kitchen, food storage areas, and rooms containing heat sensitive and electronic equipment.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-730. Equipment and fixtures.

Equipment and fixtures used within the secure perimeter shall be equivalent to the security level of the area in which they are designed.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-740. Special purpose cells.

A. There shall be a minimum of one special purpose cell (e.g., isolation, medical, or segregation) for each 10 secure inmates for whom the facility is designed.

B. The number of ADA accessible special purpose cells shall meet the percentage required by the building code.

C. All cells shall be provided with lighting from a maximum security fixture and be in accordance with artificial light requirements in 6VAC15-81-710.

D. Special purpose cells shall be sized in accordance with the American Correctional Association Standards for Local Detention Facilities for restrictive housing units with a ceiling height of at least eight feet and are not required to open onto an adjacent dayroom space.

E. A minimum of 80% of special purpose cells shall be constructed as maximum security cells. Up to 20% of special purpose cells may be of less secure construction if designed for medical usage.

F. Cells specifically designed for persons who are violent or self-destructive may be equipped with a flushing floor drain in lieu of a stainless steel combination plumbing fixture and a bunk sized slab or platform raised a minimum of six inches above finished floor.

G. Showers shall be provided within the special purpose housing unit. Consideration shall be given to providing cuff slots in doors for enclosed showers in special purpose housing units.

H. Special purpose cells shall not open directly into a main corridor or general population activity space.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-750. Multipurpose space.

A. Multipurpose spaces shall be provided in sufficient number and size to allow for and include multipurpose rooms, educational classrooms, religious services, group counseling services, program services, and library (if inmates are to be moved to the service). For purposes of this chapter, jail industry programs, as defined in §§ 53.1-133.1 through 53.1-133.9 of the Code of Virginia, are not considered multipurpose space.

B. The total multipurpose area square footage shall be designed and constructed to provide a minimum of 20 square feet per inmate for design capacity of the facility up to 480 inmates. No additional multipurpose space is required for facilities with a design capacity of over 480 inmates.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-760. Recreation.

A. Recreation space shall be provided at a rate of 10 square feet for each inmate for which the facility is designed up to 480 inmates. For facilities with a design capacity of over 480, no additional recreation space is required. A minimum of two recreation areas shall be provided in facilities with a design capacity of up to 240 inmates. For facilities with a design capacity greater than 240 inmates, a minimum of three recreation spaces shall be provided.

B. Indoor recreation is required, and consideration shall be given to outdoor recreation. At least one indoor recreation area shall have a minimum of 1000 square feet with an 18 foot ceiling height or overhead clearance. At least one outdoor recreation area, if provided, shall have a minimum of 1500 square feet with an 18 foot overhead clearance. Additional recreation areas, if indoors, may have lower clearance or ceiling heights if being utilized for activities such as a weight room or ping-pong. No recreation area shall have less than 600 square feet or measure less than 20 feet in any one direction.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-770. Library.

Library space shall be provided for an inmate library or provisions made for alternative library services.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-780. Commissary.

Space shall be provided for an inmate commissary and associated storage or provisions shall be made for alternative commissary services.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-790. Facility visiting area.

A. Accommodations for public visitors shall be designed to provide flexibility in the degree of physical security and supervision commensurate with security requirements of variously classified inmates. Paths of ingress or egress for inmates shall be designed to be separate from and not intersect ingress or egress paths of public visitors.

B. Consideration shall be given to providing lockers or areas for storage of handbags or other articles in the public lobby.

C. Noncontact visitation.

1. Noncontact visiting shall be provided at a rate of not less than one noncontact visiting space for each 20 inmates for whom the facility is designed, up to 240 inmates. Facilities designed for more than 240 inmates shall provide one additional noncontact visiting space for each additional 50 inmates.

2. In noncontact visiting areas, means shall be provided for audible communication between visitors and inmates. The communication system provided shall be designed to prevent passage of contraband.

3. If video visitation is utilized, a combination of on-site and off-site video visitation units for the public may comply with the requirements of subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection. In no event shall off-site video visitation be the only form of noncontact visitation.

4. At least 25% of public noncontact visitation shall be on site.

5. If inmate video visitation spaces are provided in the housing units, at least eight square feet shall be provided per video visitation space. This space shall not be counted towards calculation of dayroom or multipurpose room space.

D. Contact visitation.

1. Not less than two secure contact visiting rooms of at least 60 square feet each shall be provided for the first 100 inmates of design capacity for contact visits from law-enforcement officers, attorneys, clergy, and probation officers or parole officers. For facilities having a design capacity in excess of 100 inmates, one additional secure contact visiting room shall be provided for every additional 200 inmates of design capacity. These rooms shall be located to be either visually supervised or monitored by a control station or room.

2. Provisions shall be made to prevent transmission of intelligible communication to adjacent areas.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-800. Food service.

A. If a kitchen is provided, it shall be equipped to meet the standards of the Department of Health and the following:

1. The kitchen and kitchen storage shall be sized in accordance with the design capacity of the facility and include consideration for future expansion.

2. The kitchen area, exclusive of dining and serving areas, shall be a minimum of 1500 square feet and for facilities in excess of 100 inmates of design capacity an additional three square feet per inmate shall be provided. The kitchen shall be located with consideration for ease of serving the inmate population and where supplies can readily be received without breaching security. Space for food storage rooms is in addition to the above minimum square footage.

3. Consideration shall be given to providing an inmate break area within the kitchen area. This shall not reduce the size of the kitchen or other spaces associated with the kitchen.

4. A janitor's closet and mop sink shall be located within the kitchen for exclusive use in the kitchen.

5. Storage space of adequate size and type to accommodate perishable, frozen, and bulk dry food storage shall be provided.

a. For facilities with a design capacity up to 1000 inmates, the storage space shall be sized not less than three square feet of floor space per inmate. For design capacity in excess of 1000, the sizing may be 2.7 square feet of floor space per inmate for the next 800 inmates. Further reductions may be approved for jails with a design capacity of greater than 1800 inmates. Storage space requirements are based on a seven-day supply need. Aggregate kitchen storage space shall be a minimum of 300 square feet of floor space.

b. The following breakdown of storage space is recommended: 40% dry, 36% refrigerated and 24% freezer.

c. Walls for food storage shall extend to the structure above.

6. All kitchen counters and table tops, legs, and bases; shelving; and fixed equipment shall be stainless steel.

7. The floors, walls, and ceilings in the food service areas shall be a smooth durable finish, shall withstand food spillage, and shall be easily cleanable.

8. Adequately sized separate lockable storage shall be provided for caustic, toxic, and flammable kitchen supplies. Secure storage or space for secure storage shall be provided for kitchen inventory of sharp implements and other potential weapons. Consideration shall be given for locating lockable storage in a separate locked room.

9. Provisions shall be made for kitchen waste removal from the kitchen area without crossing the food preparation area.

10. Hand washing sinks for inmate toilets shall be located outside the toilet room and in view of the staff.

11. Consideration shall be given to locating an emergency eye wash station in the kitchen.

12. Consideration shall be given to providing a smoke removal system for the kitchen.

B. In addition to kitchen and kitchen storage areas, a staff dining or break area shall be provided with a minimum of 15 square feet for each person the area is designed to serve. Floors, walls and ceilings shall be a smooth, durable finish and easily cleanable.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-810. Laundry.

A. If a central laundry is provided, commercial or institutional grade equipment shall be provided.

B. Finishes shall be durable and easily cleanable. Electrical, plumbing, and ventilation shall be as described in Article 5 (6VAC15-81-980 et seq.) of this part.

C. The guidance for washer capacity is to provide 15 to 20 pounds of laundry per inmate per week. The minimum recommended ratio for dryer to washer load poundage shall be a minimum of 1.5 to 1.

D. There shall be sufficient storage for linen and laundry supplies. Separate lockable storage shall be provided for caustic, toxic, and flammable supplies.

E. Secure lockable storage shall be provided for chemical containers serving laundry machines.

F. All gas supply and exhaust venting on dryers shall be protected from exposure to and vandalism by inmates.

G. A janitor's closet and mop sink shall be located within the laundry for exclusive use in the laundry.

H. Consideration shall be given to providing a smoke removal system for the central laundry area.

I. Consideration shall be given to locating an emergency eye wash station in the central laundry area.

J. Consideration may be given to providing small load capacity laundry equipment in property storage, community custody, and minimum security housing areas in addition to the central laundry.

K. Provisions for future expansion shall be considered.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-820. Storage.

In addition to storage required for particular areas, the following shall be provided to accommodate facility design capacity at a minimum:

1. Storage for inmate clothing, linens, towels, etc.

2. Storage for recreation and related equipment located in or near indoor and outdoor recreation areas.

3. Secure storage for medical supplies and biohazard waste.

4. Storage for extra inmate mattresses and bunks.

5. Secure storage for janitorial supplies in janitorial closets located conveniently to areas serviced.

6. Secure storage for inmate records.

7. Storage space in the administration area for equipment, records, and supplies for established and projected population needs.

8. Staff uniforms and equipment.

9. Secure storage for evidence and contraband.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

Article 3
Additional Design Requirements

6VAC15-81-830. Elevators.

A. Facilities with three or more stories shall be provided with at least two elevators.

B. Elevators within the secure perimeter shall be capable of being securely controlled and managed locally and from a control room. Consideration shall be given in all elevators to provide visual and audio communication with the control room.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-840. Corridors.

Corridors used for the movement of inmates, stretchers, food and utility carts, etc. shall be constructed to provide a minimum width of five feet.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-850. Intercom, closed circuit television, video, and sound services.

A. As a minimum, each housing unit shall be equipped with an electronic sound monitoring system that allows inmates to notify staff in the case of an emergency. This system shall be monitored by master control or other remote control room or control station.

B. Two-way intercoms shall be provided at all remotely controlled security doors other than cell doors.

C. The facility shall be designed to maximize direct visual sightlines. As a supplement to direct visual observation, CCTV shall be installed to observe, at a minimum, blind spots in corridors, sally ports, building entrances, and the building exterior.

D. If video teleconferencing or arraignment is to be utilized, adequate space shall be provided.

E. Consideration shall be given to the requirements of PREA when installing video monitoring, electronic surveillance, or other monitoring technology.

F. In areas where voice communications through the glazing is desired, such as a magistrate, visitation, and control rooms, a system utilizing vandal resistant individual speakers, microphones, intercom, telephone, speak-around frames, or an approved equivalent shall be specified.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-860. Telephone.

Inmate telephone service shall be provided in all inmate housing units, including intake and special purpose housing, within the jail.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-870. Glazing in doors.

Glazed view panels shall be provided in all doors for security and safety, with the following exceptions:

1. Doors to janitorial closets, plumbing chases, storage areas, employee dining, staff break room, pharmacy, toilets, maintenance rooms, property storage rooms, evidence rooms, armory, mechanical rooms, electrical rooms, telecommunication rooms, security electronics rooms, offices outside the secure perimeter, and similar rooms.

2. Doors required by the building code to have a three-hour fire-resistance rating are not required to have view panels.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-880. Mechanical, maintenance, security electronics.

A. The main mechanical room shall be located outside the secure perimeter and shall be accessible from the outside.

B. If a separate maintenance shop is provided, it shall be located outside the secure perimeter and shall be accessible from the outside.

C. The main security electronics shall be contained in a room specifically designed for that purpose or shall be securely separated from other equipment. Security electronic rooms shall not provide access to other spaces or services. An independent cooling system shall be provided for this room.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-890. Access for replacement of mechanical equipment.

Design shall provide access for replacement of larger pieces of mechanical equipment without having to relocate other equipment or cut holes through walls, floors, roofs, or ceilings.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-900. Plumbing.

A. Walk-in type plumbing chases shall be provided with lights and electrical outlets to facilitate maintenance.

B. Sufficient floor water drains shall be provided throughout the jail to enable water to be easily removed from areas subject to water spillage or flooding (i.e., shower, group toilet areas, dayrooms, kitchens, etc.).

C. At a minimum, the capability of shutting off the domestic water supply shall be provided for each individual housing unit with one control per housing unit.

D. Plumbing fixtures in special purpose and intake cells shall have individual shutoff controls for domestic water supply.

E. Domestic water shutoff controls shall be in a remote location in proximity to each housing unit and shall be easily accessed by staff, but not inmate accessible.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-910. Housing unit stair and cell tier guard rails.

Guard rails shall be a minimum height of 48 inches above the floor or stair treads in housing units and inmate stairs, including egress stairs and tiers.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

Article 4
Construction Requirements

6VAC15-81-920. Building systems - general.

A. The requirements set forth in this article establish the requirements for building materials, equipment, and systems to be designed and constructed in facilities within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

B. The building components and design criteria denoted in this article are intended to relate the facilities' security and custody level and expected use conditions, with the materials, equipment, and systems expected performance, particularly as related to strength, safety, and durability characteristics.

C. Matching the performance levels of the various components which make up a security enclosure or system is of equal importance. They shall be comparable and compatible.

D. All work shall be done in accordance with acceptable design and construction practices and material shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer recommendations or as otherwise noted.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-930. Structural systems - walls, floors, roofs, ceilings.

A. Wall systems - general. Walls encompassing areas occupied by inmates shall provide a secure barrier for their entire height and length, both horizontally and vertically, to prevent unauthorized ingress or egress. Security walls shall provide continuity at adjacent security walls, horizontal security barriers or the secure perimeter. The joints and voids between secure walls and horizontal security barrier shall be protected with materials of security level equivalent to the remainder of the wall.

1. Security walls.

a. Security perimeter walls shall be of masonry, concrete, steel, or other approved noncombustible building material and shall comply with ASTM F2322 testing method Grade 1 to a minimum of 1,000 blow counts.

b. Interior security walls shall be of masonry, concrete, steel, or other approved noncombustible building material and shall comply with ASTM F2322 Grade 1. Security shall be maintained for the entire height of the wall and integrated with the next horizontal security barrier.

c. Security walls may be of the following materials and construction:

(1) Concrete masonry units with block cores filled solid with 3,000 psi grout in accordance with ASTM C476. All masonry mortar shall be a minimum of 2,500 psi compressive strength and comply with ASTM C270.

(a) Security perimeter walls shall have vertical #4 reinforcing rods in every masonry core spaced eight inches on center maximum. Every masonry core shall be grout filled.

(b) Interior security walls shall have vertical #4 reinforcing rods in every other masonry core spaced 16 inches on center maximum. Every masonry core shall be grout filled.

(2) Concrete walls may be cast in place or precast reinforced high-strength concrete panel. Walls shall be a minimum of 4,000 psi compressive strength (28-day break). Minimum thickness of solid core concrete shall be four inches. Refer to the Prestressed/Precast Concrete Institute to calculate the equivalent thickness of hollow core concrete panels. Hollow core plank shall not be used for security walls.

(3) Steel wall assemblies shall meet ASTM F2322 testing requirements Grade 1 or better and shall be coated with a zinc-iron-alloy (galvanneal) coating meeting ASTM A653, Commercial Steel (CS), coating designation A60 (Z180) designation or better. Walls shall be securely anchored to structural slabs in floor, adjacent security walls, and horizontal security barrier.

(4) Bar grille security walls shall be 2-1/4 inches by 3/8-inch steel flat bar frame with vertical 7/8-inch round double ribbed bars spaced five inches or less on center with 2-1/4 inches by 3/8-inch horizontal steel bars approximately 16 inches on center. Bar grille shall be securely anchored to adjacent security walls and horizontal security barriers.

(5) Woven rod security walls shall be fabricated from 3/8-inch diameter mild steel rods spaced not more than two inches on center in two directions, interwoven, and crimp-locked. Rods shall be anchored securely into a heavy gage (10-gage minimum) tubular steel frame or structural equivalent flat steel bar or channel. Frame shall be securely anchored to adjacent security walls and horizontal security barriers.

(6) Nonload bearing walls in inmate housing units less than 12 feet high shall have 12-gage steel continuous angles between overhead horizontal structural members on both sides. Voids located at the top of the wall shall be sealed with concrete masonry units grouted solid, solid concrete masonry units, or 3/16-inch metal plate. Walls in excess of 12 feet shall be stabilized but may use clip angles in lieu of continuous angles.

2. Wall penetrations.

a. Access doors or panels shall be the same security grade as the wall in which they are installed.

b. Access doors or panels to access building systems and equipment shall be a minimum of two-feet by two-feet.

c. Consideration shall be given to designing mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and security electronics systems to minimize access doors or panels in walls.

d. Ceiling access panels or doors within the secure perimeter shall be provided with panels and locks equivalent to the security level of the ceiling in which it is used.

e. Consideration shall be given to locating balancing dampers close to or integral with diffusers so they can be adjusted and checked without the installation of access panels.

f. Any opening behind a toilet fixture shall be protected in accordance with the requirements of the wall where it is installed.

3. Interior partitions within the secure perimeter.

a. Interior partitions shall be constructed of a minimum of six-inch concrete masonry units or equivalent.

b. Mortar utilized when the wall is of masonry unit construction shall be a minimum of 2000 psi compressive strength.

c. Openings in interior partitions.

(1) Doors and frames shall be a minimum of 1-3/4 inches thick commercial grade hollow metal with a minimum 16-gage door and 14-gage frame.

(2) Door hardware shall be a minimum of commercial grade.

(3) Windows shall have security glazing or tempered glass in accordance with 6VAC15-81-970.

B. Floor systems.

1. Floor systems within and including the secure perimeter shall be one of the following:

a. A poured-in-place concrete slab on grade with a minimum thickness of four inches and not less than continuous six-inch by six-inch by 10-gage embedded welded wire fabric reinforcing or equivalent.

b. Hollow core concrete plank system providing a minimum equivalent concrete thickness of:

(1) Three inches if cores are oval or round; or

(2) Four inches if cores are square or rectangular.

For purposes of calculating equivalent thickness for security, topping is not included.

c. Precast concrete tees providing a minimum equivalent concrete thickness of four inches at the flange. If topping is used, it shall be a normal weight concrete of a minimum of two inches thick and provide adequate cover for #4 rebar eight-inch on center in one direction or W4 welded wire mesh six-inch on center in both directions.

2. Floors in six-sided steel cells and six-sided precast concrete cells shall be tested in accordance with ASTM F2697 testing requirements Grade 1 to a minimum of 1,000 blows for horizontal assemblies.

C. Roof and ceiling systems.

1. Upper secure perimeter shall consist of a roof or ceiling as follows:

a. Roofs. The roof construction or uppermost secure perimeter shall be one of the following:

(1) A minimum of four inch standard weight concrete with a minimum strength of 3000 psi. Reinforcing shall consist of not less than continuous six-inch by six-inch by 10-gage embedded welded wire fabric reinforcing.

(2) Precast concrete plank or panels providing a minimum total concrete thickness of four inches.

(3) Hollow core concrete plank providing a minimum equivalent concrete thickness of:

(a) Three inches if cores are oval or round; or

(b) Four inches if cores are square or rectangular.

For purposes of calculating equivalent thickness for security, topping is not included.

(4) Three-inch standard weight concrete with a minimum strength of 3000 psi on 16 gage steel form (or decking) on concrete or steel support members.

(5) Three-inch standard weight concrete with a minimum strength of 3,000 psi with six-inch by six-inch by 10-gage wire fabric on a 22-gage steel form (or decking) on concrete or steel supporting members.

(6) Precast concrete tees providing a minimum equivalent concrete thickness of four inches. If topping is used, it shall be a normal weight concrete of a minimum of two inches thick and provide adequate cover for #4 rebar eight-inch on center in one direction or W4 welded wire mesh six-inch on center in both directions.

b. Ceilings. A ceiling used for the uppermost horizontal secure perimeter is acceptable if tested in accordance with ASTM F2697 testing requirements to a minimum of 1,000 blows.

2. Interior ceilings. Ceilings within the secure perimeter, but not serving as the secure perimeter, shall have or exceed the level of protection specified in the table in this subdivision.

3. Secure ceilings shall be provided in other areas where inmates are unsupervised.

4. Consideration shall be given to ensure that adequate space (a minimum of eight inches) is provided between the ceiling (including recessed lighting fixtures) and above ceiling building systems (e.g., duct, conduit, wiring, piping, tubing, structure, etc.) to allow for installation of the ceiling at the specified height.

5. Ceilings over showers and toilets shall be equivalent to security requirements of space in which it is located.

6. Security capping.

a. Any space surrounded by interior security walls that does not extend to a secure floor or roof structure above or uppermost horizontal secure perimeter shall be capped to comply with a material or assembly meeting the requirements of ASTM F2322 testing method to Grade 1 or with four inches of concrete or equivalent. This includes cells, control rooms, sally ports, and armories.

b. Open spaces above areas required to be security capped shall be protected to eliminate blind spots or access for hiding.

7. All penetrations of the uppermost secure perimeter shall be protected by maximum security opening protectives equivalent to types specified in 6VAC15-81-940, 6VAC15-81-950, and 6VAC15-81-960. Where operable, opening protective shall be equipped with maximum security locks in accordance with 6VAC15-81-950.

8. Access openings.

a. Consideration shall be given to designing mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and security electronics systems to minimize access doors or panels in ceilings.

b. Protection of openings shall be the same security grade as the ceiling in which it is installed.

c. All access openings to the space above security ceilings shall be protected by hinged metal access panels or doors equipped with keyed locks.

d. Access doors or panels to access building systems and equipment shall be a minimum of two-feet by two-feet.

e. Ceiling access panels or doors within the secure perimeter shall be independently and securely supported to prevent vertical displacement.

f. Consideration shall be given to locating balancing dampers close to or integral with diffusers so they can be adjusted and checked without the installation of access panels.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-940. Doors and frames - security and nonsecurity.

A. Security doors used where perimeter security and interior security walls are required shall be one of the following:

1. Hollow metal security doors shall meet the requirements of ASTM F1450 as follows:

a. Maximum security and perimeter security doors shall be ASTM Grade 1.

b. Doors in interior security walls and associated with medium security housing shall be ASTM Grade 2 or better.

c. Minimum security doors shall be ASTM Grade 3 or better, except doors shall be ASTM Grade 2 or better if in interior security walls.

2. Bar grille doors shall include double ribbed steel bars measuring 7/8-inch diameter at five inches on center with flat steel crossbars measuring 3/8-inch by 2-1/4 inches at 18 inches on center with punched holes for ribbed bars at five inches on center. Door frames shall be installed in accordance with Hollow Metal Manufacturers Association (HMMA) 863 and ASTM F1450.

3. Woven rod door.

a. Woven rod door frames shall be constructed of tubular shaped 12-gage steel channel or 3/16-inch right-angle bent steel plate, punched to receive woven rods.

b. The cap channel shall be 12-gage steel plate.

c. The woven rod door mesh shall be 3/8-inch in diameter steel rod woven at two inches on center each way and double crimped.

d. Welds shall be placed a minimum on every other rod where it cannot be accessed by the inmate.

e. The frame shall be mounted into a 10-gage formed steel channel, expansion anchored to the wall, and field welded to the mount channel.

f. Door frames shall be installed in accordance with HMMA 863 and ASTM F1450.

4. Access opening protection.

a. Access panels, doors, frames, locks, and hardware shall at a minimum be equivalent to the security level of the wall, roof, or floor where they are installed.

b. Steel plate doors may be used as an alternate. If used, access doors or panels shall meet the following requirements:

(1) Shall be a minimum of 3/16-inch thick plate steel.

(2) Shall have minimum of 3/16-inch bent steel plate or equivalent rolled steel shape door frame. Each jamb for security access openings shall be anchored with wall anchors not to exceed 18 inches on center with a minimum of two wall anchors per jamb.

(3) Frame and bracing shall be sufficient to prevent the door or panels from flexing or warping from abuse.

B. Nonsecurity doors shall be steel commercial grade minimum 1-3/4 inches thick hollow metal doors with 16-gage face sheets with rigid inner core. Frames shall be commercial grade 14-gage hollow metal or equal.

C. Solid core wood doors are an acceptable alternative as a nonsecurity door in walls designated as nonsecure.

D. Additional features.

1. Where doors and hardware are required by the building code to be fire-rated construction, such construction shall not reduce or compromise the security requirements or present a hindrance to emergency evacuation.

2. Security frames shall be completely filled with 3,000 psi fine grout meeting the requirements of ASTM C476.

3. Doors for any room utilized by inmates shall open out away from the inmate occupied side.

4. Doors in inmate occupied areas shall not have loop pulls on the inside of the door. Finger pulls are recommended in those locations.

5. Passproof thresholds shall be installed at doors to prevent passing of contraband between housing units.

6. Sliding doors, door mechanisms, and food passes shall be oriented and installed to minimize inmate interference with door operation.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-950. Locks and locking systems.

A. Security level. Locks shall meet the requirements of ASTM F1577 for swinging doors and ASTM F1643 for sliding doors. Locks on perimeter security doors and maximum security doors shall be Security Grade 1. Locks in interior security walls shall be Security Grade 2 or better. Locks in interior security partitions shall be Security Grade 3 or better.

B. Locking devices. Where a high degree of security and positive door control is required in cells, dayrooms, and corridors, sliding door locking devices capable of being operated from a control room are recommended.

C. Magnetic and electromagnetic locks shall not be used as security locks.

D. Controls shall be provided to operate the locks and locking devices in the required modes.

1. The switches, relays, and other devices shall make up a control system compatible with the locks and locking devices and shall be capable of providing the switching necessary to satisfy all desired operational modes.

2. A master control console or panel shall be designed to display all switches to the operator. Normally installed in a secure room (i.e., officer control room) the console shall be equipped with a control for each door, a group control for each wing of the building (or cell block), and controls for the corridor and sally port doors that control access to those wings.

3. In housing control stations and control rooms, door controls shall release cell doors individually, as a group, and as emergency release.

4. Housing control stations and control rooms shall have a local and remote power cutoff and the ability to transfer operation to the master control room.

5. Control panels shall have position, lock, and roller bolt or locking bar indication for security gates and doors.

6. In the event of a power failure the locking system shall be fail secure.

7. Emergency release provisions shall be made for unlocking or group-release of cell doors in case of fire, power failure, or other emergencies.

a. Standby power from a generator is required.

b. Other forms of emergency release shall be reviewed and approved by the reviewing authority.

E. Master keying shall be provided for all security locks. Master keying shall utilize a minimum of two keys so that no one key can be used to get from any point in the facility through multiple doors to the outside of the facility. All secure perimeter doors shall be keyed separately from interior doors.

F. Locks on inmate toilet room doors, with the exception of within housing units, shall be lockable from the outside but not lockable from the inside.

G. Within housing units, locking shall be as follows:

1. Inmate showers and toilet rooms with full height doors shall be staff lockable from the outside but shall not be capable of being locked or latched from the inside.

2. Inmate showers and toilet rooms with partial height doors may be latched from the inside.

H. Staff toilets shall be key locked from the outside and thumb turn operable or not lockable from the inside.

I. Plumbing chases shall not be lockable from the inside.

J. Sally ports interlocking requirements.

1. Sally port doors shall be interlocked in a manner that only one sally port door or gate shall be openable at a time under normal operation. All sally port doors or gates shall be installed so they are confirmed to be locked by mechanical or electronic means prior to the opening of any other door or gate. Sally port locking and unlocking shall be remotely controlled from a secure control room.

2. Vehicular sally port gates or doors shall be capable of being operated and locked from a remote location with provisions for manual operation and locking when power is off or in the event of emergency action.

3. Vehicular sally port doors shall be a minimum of 12 feet high.

4. Rollup and bifold doors in vehicular sally ports, warehouse, and loading docks are not considered security doors.

5. Cell door release shall be separate from housing unit entry door release locking.

6. Doors between adjacent housing units shall not be interlocked with sally ports.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-960. Window frames.

A. Performance requirements and criteria for the selection and intended use of windows shall include the following considerations: security, natural lighting, ventilation, and weather protection.

B. Security requirements.

1. Security frames shall have 1-1/4-inch glazing stops with a one-inch bite and be secured with security screws on the non-inmate side.

2. Security frames shall be completely filled with 3,000 psi fine grout meeting the requirements of ASTM C476.

3. Windows shall have security glazing in accordance with 6VAC15-81-970.

4. Where necessary because of field conditions in renovations or replacements, field fabricated security windows shall have a minimum 14-gage window frame and be approved by the reviewing authority.

C. Secure perimeter. Windows frames that are to be installed in the building perimeter security (exterior and interior walls and clearstory/skylight assemblies) shall meet the requirements of ASTM F1592 Grade 1 or better.

D. Interior security.

1. Maximum security window frames shall be Security Grade 1 or better.

2. Window frames in other interior security walls shall be Security Grade 2 or better.

E. Non-security windows may be provided in an exterior security wall to provide a noninstitutional appearance. When such windows are used, however, the window opening shall be protected on the interior side of the opening by a steel bar grille or woven rod with security frame comparable to the security assemblies described in this section.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-970. Security glazing.

A. When selecting glazing, consideration shall be given to ballistic attack, whether penetration of glazing would compromise security or allow passage of contraband, degree of staff supervision or surveillance, and anticipated amount of vandalism.

1. Glazing security grade level shall be in accordance with ASTM F1915.

2. Bullet resistant glazing shall meet ballistics requirements of ASTM F1233 for weapons capable of concealment and UL 752 Level III, super power small arms. This glazing shall be low spalling or no spalling.

B. The level of glazing resistance to penetration or ballistic attack shall be consistent with the security level of walls and other building components in which it is located.

1. Where openings exceed five inches in one direction and are not protected by bar grille or woven rod:

a. Glazing in maximum security walls and doors shall be Security Grade 1 or better.

b. Glazing in interior security walls and doors shall be Security Grade 2 or better.

c. Glazing in interior partitions inside the secure perimeter shall be Security Grade 4 or better.

2. Glazing in control rooms shall be:

a. Security Grade 1 in master control room.

b. Security Grade 1 and bullet resistant where glazing separates a control room from a public area.

c. Security Grade 2 or better for other control rooms.

3. Glazing associated with visitation or magistrate areas that form a part of the secure perimeter shall be one of the following:

a. Security Grade 1 glazing with bar grille or woven rod.

b. Security Grade 1 glazing and bullet resistant.

c. Glazing in visitation between the public and inmate may be Security Grade 1 glazing supplemented by an additional secure perimeter wall with sally port enclosing the public side of the visitation area.

4. Security glazing panels shall be no larger than 36 inches by 48 inches unless located a minimum of seven feet above floor level.

5. Glazing security grade may be reduced one level if lowest portion of glazing is 12 feet above adjacent floor level.

6. Tempered or insulated glass or both may be used in openings five inches or less in one direction unless bullet resistant or contraband resistance is required, in which case glazing rated for such shall be used.

7. Glass security glazing or glass clad security glazing shall not be used unless required for fire rating or unless approved by the reviewing authority on a case by case basis for specific locations.

8. Plate glass, float glass, and other conventional glass other than wire or tempered glass shall not be used in any openings located within the secure perimeter or in any interior security walls, interior partitions, doors, or other openings within the area enclosed by the secure perimeter. Wire glass may only be used where required for fire rating purposes.

9. Tempered glass, if used, shall meet the requirements of (American National Standards Institute) ANSI Z97.1 Class A safety test or Consumer Products Safety Commission Category II safety test.

10. Where bar grille or woven rod is required to be used for windows, it shall be similar in design and constructed in accordance with bar grille or woven rod indicated in 6VAC15-81-930.

11. Where the frame or frame and mullions provide the security for the window opening, the maximum clear dimension of the opening shall be no more than five inches in one direction.

12. All openings, such as windows, louvers, clearstories, and skylights, penetrating the secure perimeter walls, floors, or roof shall be protected by bar grille or woven rod partitions constructed as required by subdivisions A 1 c (4) and A 1 c (5) of 6VAC15-81-930 when they are larger than:

a. Eight inches by eight inches; or

b. Five inches in one direction if the other dimension is larger than eight inches.

Exception: Glazed areas protected and located in accordance with subdivision 3 of this subsection.

13. To avoid tampering, removable glazing stops shall be applied, wherever possible, on the side opposite the inmate occupied area. Where stops are placed in an inmate area, they shall be secured with an ample number of strong, properly installed, tamper resistant fasteners of design required by 6VAC15-81-930 or approved by the reviewing authority. Junctions of horizontal and vertical glazing stops on the inmate side shall be welded to prevent removal of portions of stop members.

14. Exterior windows in security areas in new construction shall be fixed. Exception: In renovations where windows are operable, exterior windows in security areas that are capable of being opened shall have additional protection of heavy duty stainless steel, security wire contraband, and insect screen.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

Article 5
Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical, Smoke Control, and Fire Protection

6VAC15-81-980. Mechanical, plumbing, electrical, smoke control, and fire protection installation.

Unless indicated otherwise by this chapter, all components of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, smoke control, and fire protection systems, including air handlers, fans, duct work, terminal boxes, dampers, heating and cooling equipment, water heaters, pumps, piping, valves, sensors, control wiring, thermostats, tubing, conduit, wiring, motors, lighting fixtures, and associated equipment within the secure perimeter shall be mounted as follows:

1. As high as possible for the intended function and securely fastened to the structure or walls.

2. If located less than 12 feet above the finished floor or within six feet horizontally of guard rails enclosing tier floor and landing levels in dayrooms, the components shall be specifically designed for the security level of the space where it is installed, protected by a secure enclosure, or protected by secure encapsulation. Exceptions include spaces dedicated for staff use. "Secure enclosure" means secure walls, secure floors, and secure roof or secure ceiling surrounding a space or area.

3. Piping, wiring, conduit, control wiring, and tubing shall not be exposed in cells.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-990. Mechanical.

A. Within the secure perimeter of the facility, flexible duct work shall not be installed within six feet of any opening (e.g., register, grille, diffuser, etc.) that can be accessed by inmates.

B. Air inlets and outlets.

1. Maximum security grills shall be provided in the following areas:

a. All cells.

b. Maximum security housing units.

2. Maximum security grills shall have a 3/16-inch steel face plate interconnected to a 3/16-inch thick steel sleeve. Openings in the face shall be no larger than 3/16-inch each. Alternatively, a security grille specifically designed for suicide resistance may be allowed as approved by the reviewing authority.

3. In inmate accessible areas, other than maximum security, security grilles, security diffusers and security face plates shall be 12-gage or protected by 12-gage steel full face protection.

4. Commercial grade grilles, diffusers and face plates may be provided in:

a. Areas where lay-in ceiling tiles or single layer gypsum board ceilings are allowed.

b. Areas located greater than 12 feet above the floor.

c. Areas greater than six feet measured horizontally from any tier.

d. Staff areas within the security perimeter.

5. Grilles, diffusers, and face plates shall be constructed of stainless steel in inmate shower areas and stainless steel or aluminum in kitchen areas. Thickness of stainless steel grilles and diffusers for shower areas shall be as required for the security level indicated in this section.

6. Consideration shall be given to upsizing grille and diffuser sizes, but not openings in face, to compensate for pressure drop due to anticipated paint buildup.

7. Consideration shall be given to locating inlets and outlets to provide proper distribution of air and prevent short circuiting.

C. Opening protectives. Duct and other penetrations of security walls, security floors, security ceilings or security roof shall be protected by bar grille or woven rod meeting the dimensional requirements for walls in this chapter when they are larger than:

1. Eight inches by eight inches.

2. Five inches in one direction if the other dimension is larger than eight inches.

3. Exceptions:

a. Duct bars are not required in wall penetrations in the interior security walls located within an individual housing unit, or the inner wall of their integral sally port. Duct bars are required in penetrations of control rooms.

b. Duct bars are not required if maximum security grilles are provided in interior security walls or interior security ceilings in accordance with subsection B of this section.

D. Within the secure perimeter, portions of the mechanical system requiring maintenance or inspection shall be located so it cannot be accessed by inmates.

E. Supply, return, or exhaust through chases shall be ducted.

F. Armories shall have a dedicated exhaust to the outside of the building.

G. Control rooms shall have dedicated HVAC systems.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1000. Plumbing.

A. Showers.

1. Showers shall include a soap dish and drain. Shower heads shall be positioned to confine water flow to shower stall.

2. Hot and cold or tempered running water shall be available in all showers. Hot and cold running water shall be available in all lavatories. Hot water, which is accessible by inmates, shall be controlled by a temperature limiting device to preclude temperatures in excess of 105 degrees F.

3. Toilet area wall, floor, and ceiling surface finishes shall be durable, washable, and resistant to water, mold, and mildew.

4. Shower ceiling, wall, and floor surface finishes shall be durable, washable, and resistant to water, mold, and mildew. Shower and shower area floor surface finishes shall be slip resistant. The reviewing authority may require that inmate showers be constructed from stainless steel.

5. All showers for inmate use shall be operated by metering push button control.

B. Plumbing fixtures.

1. Plumbing fixtures in maximum security housing units shall be stainless steel.

2. In indirect supervision medium security housing units, toilets and lavatories shall be stainless steel.

3. In minimum security housing units and direct supervision medium security housing areas, toilets shall be a minimum of commercial grade tankless toilets and commercial grade lavatories.

4. Soap holders in showers and toilet paper holders shall be the recessed type.

5. Showers providing ADA accessibility designed with fixed low shower head shall have a second head at standard height.

6. Where an ADA accessible mirror is provided, a regular height mirror shall also be provided. Height to bottom of regular height mirror is recommended at 53 to 57 inches.

7. Consideration shall be given to maintenance and sanitation (ponding water and soap) and suicide resistance when selecting grab bars in ADA accessible showers.

8. All toilets for inmate use shall be operated by push button activators. Lavatories for inmate use shall be operated by metering push button activators.

9. Inmate plumbing fixtures in sally ports shall be maximum security.

10. Gooseneck faucets shall not be allowed on lavatories in inmate accessible areas.

C. All floors and tiers in housing units shall be provided with adequate drainage to handle standing water associated with shower areas, toilet or sprinkler overflows, and cleaning.

D. Kitchens and laundries shall be provided with adequate drainage.

E. Janitorial closets with mop sinks and storage shall be provided in every inmate housing unit. Janitorial closets shall be provided in proximity to intake and to serve corridors.

F. Toilet facilities for the use of security and administrative staff and inmates shall be located throughout the building. Staff toilet facilities shall be provided in master control stations. Staff toilet facilities shall be provided in, or convenient to, other control stations or control rooms.

G. PVC or other plastic piping, one-half inch or greater, shall not be used above the ground floor slab within the secure perimeter of the jail. For transitions, PVC piping may extend not more than six inches above the floor.

H. Plumbing fixtures and lines shall not be located above security electronic rooms.

I. Isolation valves and balancing valves are recommended to facilitate maintenance. Butterfly valves are not recommended.

J. As a minimum, a water supply shutoff controllable from outside each housing unit shall be provided from a location readily accessible by staff but not by inmates. Remotely controlled water supply shutoff valves should be considered for individual inmate cells, especially at special housing.

K. Gravity sanitary drainage mains and fittings serving two or more fixtures in housing units shall have a minimum inside dimension of six inches.

L. For inmate toilets with a gravity sewer, a cleanout with interceptor pin at each tee in chases is recommended.

M. All sanitary and stormwater piping penetrating a secure perimeter wall, security floor, secure recreation yard, or vehicular sally ports shall not exceed eight inches in diameter. If flow calculations require a pipe diameter greater than eight inches, a series of eight-inch or smaller pipes equivalent to or greater than the flow area calculated shall be used. It is expected that multiple pipes be installed as a duct bank.

N. All showers shall be provided with mechanical exhaust directly from the shower compartment. Single showers shall be exhausted individually. In the case of multiple showers without full height partitions between the showers, the exhaust may be from a central location from the shower area.

O. All fixtures shall be low flow, water saving type.

P. Inmate lavatories, drinking fountains, toilets, and urinals inside the secure perimeter shall not have exposed piping and components.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1010. Electrical.

A. All wiring, conductors, and control tubing shall be concealed to the greatest extent possible.

1. Where wiring is exposed and accessible by inmates, it shall be housed in intermediate metal conduit (IMC) or rigid metal conduit (RMC) with threaded fittings.

2. Rigid nonmetallic conduit (PVC or CPVC) shall not be used above ground floor slab within the secure perimeter except when encapsulated in concrete or grouted concrete masonry units. For transitions, rigid nonmetallic conduit may extend not more than six inches above floor.

3. Flexible metallic conduit not exceeding six feet in length shall be allowed above ceilings.

4. Flexible conduit, if required for a moving part of a device (e.g., pan-tilt-zoom camera), shall not exceed 12 inches exposed and shall be liquid tight or equivalent.

5. Electrical metallic tubing (EMT) and other types of conduits are not permitted within the secure perimeter.

B. The intensity of artificial lighting shall be in accordance with the requirements of 6VAC15-40, Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups.

C. Standby power.

1. A standby power source shall be provided sufficient to sustain, as a minimum, life safety operations, security systems, refrigerators, and freezers.

a. "Life safety operations" means the function of certain electrical, mechanical, and other building equipment provided for the purpose of ensuring the life, health, and safety of building occupants in an emergency situation.

b. Fuel capacity shall be provided for a minimum of 72 hours of operation without refueling.

c. Consideration shall be given to emergency power for nonemergency lighting.

2. Consideration shall be given to protection of generators, standby power source, and fuel sources from unauthorized access or damage by location, fencing, or enclosure.

D. Light fixtures.

1. The security level of fixtures shall be consistent with the security level of the area where located.

2. Security light fixtures shall be surface mounted to any ceiling that is the secure perimeter. Exception: Security fixtures that are designed for, integral to, and maintain the security level of the ceiling, which is not the secure perimeter, may be recessed.

3. Fixtures installed in nonsecure lay-in ceilings may be standard fixtures with vandal resistant lenses.

4. Suspended ceiling mounted lighting fixtures in maximum and medium security housing units shall be supported from the structure above with threaded rods, independent of any ceiling grid or framework.

E. Placement of receptacles and lighting switches in individual cells is discouraged. Consideration should be given for access to power for medical devices.

F. Surge protection shall be provided on power supplies for electrically powered systems and service to include those that leave the building.

G. Lightning protection with a UL Master Certification is required for the facility.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1020. Smoke control.

A. A smoke control system shall be provided for dormitory and celled areas such as intake, medical, special purpose, and general population housing.

B. The pressurization method, with a minimum of 24 air changes per hour of exhaust and 20 air changes per hour of makeup air, is preferred, but the exhaust method may be used.

C. Exit corridors shall be positively pressurized to minimize smoke migration into the area and keep the path of egress clear of smoke.

D. A smoke test shall be performed prior to acceptance of the building. The local fire department, local building official, facility safety officer, or their designees shall be invited to witness the smoke tests, and the tests shall be witnessed by the reviewing authority. The areas to be tested shall be at least one each of a typical dormitory and one of each typical celled area, such as intake, medical, segregation and each configuration of general housing, as determined by the reviewing authority.

E. Smoke machines to perform the tests shall be furnished by the owner or the owner's contractor. Smoke machines provided shall be of sufficient size and capacity to perform the tests in a short period of time.

F. Understanding that there are many variables involved, the desired results of the tests are as follows: from start of smoke machine to system alarm shall be two minutes or less; from system alarm to system activation shall be 30 seconds or less; from system activation to distinguish an egress path from the center of the room to an exit shall be two minutes or less; and from system activation to the space being sufficiently clear to reset the system shall be 30 minutes or less.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1030. Fire protection.

A. Sprinkler heads in inmate accessible areas shall be detention type heads.

B. Exposed fire alarms, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and audible and visual signaling devices shall be mounted as high as practicable, and if below 12 feet, they shall be covered with heavy-gage tamper-resistant protective cages securely fastened to the surface. All exposed devices including sprinkler heads in gymnasiums or indoor recreation areas shall be covered with protective cages.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

Article 6
Miscellaneous Construction Features

6VAC15-81-1040. Jail equipment.

A. All jail security equipment, fixtures, hardware, etc. shall be of a design to meet the security level consistent with the intended use of the space.

B. Bunks installed in maximum and medium security cells shall be bolted through the wall, welded to imbeds, or bolted or welded to inserts cast into the wall or floor.

C. Fixed tables and seats shall be through-bolted through the wall, welded to imbeds, or bolted or welded to inserts cast into the wall or floor.

D. Door closers within the secure perimeter shall be the concealed arm type.

E. All equipment and systems shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer instructions unless otherwise required by this chapter or approved by the reviewing authority to be installed differently.

F. Exposed surfaces of all metal tables, bunks, seats, cabinets, grab rails, stringers, hand and guard rails, food passes, windows, doors, frames, shelves, and similar items shall have smooth edges to reduce risk of cutting or other injury.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1050. Interstitial spaces.

Interstitial spaces above cells, freezers, refrigerators, dryers, showers, stand-alone offices, and similar shall be enclosed to facilitate detection of tampering and prevent unauthorized access and to eliminate blind spots.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1060. Security fasteners.

A. Fasteners within the secure perimeter shall be pinned Torx or flush break-off head style fasteners installed with thread locking fluid. Spanner type screws are prohibited.

B. Security fasteners are required in locations as follows:

1. Direct supervision control panels.

2. Inmate accessible elevator cabs and control panels.

3. Security lock mounting plates.

4. Glazing stops for security windows.

5. Security light fixtures.

6. Hinges for security doors.

7. Field fabricated equipment.

8. Installed furnishings and equipment including annunciator panels, fire extinguisher cabinets, thresholds, kickplates, grab bars, mirrors, floor drains, air diffusers, light switch plates, outlet covers, intercoms, thermostats, and cameras in inmate accessible areas.

C. Fixed tables and bunks shall be secured with fasteners as specified in this section or with peened or tack-welded anchor bolts and nuts to prevent removal.

D. Security fasteners are not required for the following:

1. Mechanical, electrical, generator, elevator equipment, or communication equipment in locked rooms with security doors not accessible to inmates or inside enclosed control rooms.

2. Above security ceilings, behind secure locked access doors or panels, and within secure pipe and duct chases.

3. Movable furnishings, storage shelving, or cabinet hardware.

4. Laundry and kitchen equipment.

5. Equipment mounted higher than 15 feet above finished floor or within six feet of the tier.

6. Outside the secure perimeter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1070. Food, paper, and medicine passes.

A. A pass for food and medicine shall be installed in all maximum security cell doors. For purposes of this requirement, holding, intake, maximum security housing, classification, and special purpose cells are considered maximum security.

B. A pass for food shall be installed in a wall or inner sally port door of each housing unit. The food pass shall be lockable and operable from the sally port interior and shall not interfere with the operation of the door.

C. Locking passes shall be installed with the lock and fold down shelf on the side of the door or wall away from the inmates.

D. The size of a food or medicine pass shall be no more than five inches high and at least 15 inches wide or designed to facilitate passage of trays to be used. Food passes shall be installed at a maximum height of 36 inches to the top of the opening.

E. A minimum of a paper pass shall be installed from each control room to the adjoining corridor.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1080. Communication.

A. A secure means of communication and a paper pass shall be provided between control room and each dayroom and between magistrate's office and intake.

B. A secure means of communication and a paper pass shall be provided between law-enforcement lobby and intake.

C. In areas where voice communications through the glazing is required or desired, such as magistrate, visitation, and control rooms, a system utilizing vandal resistant individual speakers, microphones, intercom, telephone, speak-around frames or approved equivalent shall be specified.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1090. Interior finishes.

A. In secure areas, all interior exposed walls, partitions, and ceilings shall have a low maintenance, nonabsorbent durable finish.

B. All floor surfaces shall be of a durable, low maintenance, nonabsorbent material.

C. If concrete floor surfaces are used, they shall be finished with a sealer or coating.

D. Base molding is not recommended in inmate accessible areas within the secure perimeter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1100. Acoustics.

A. Acoustical treatment shall be provided at a minimum in housing units, activity areas, and intake.

B. Acoustical treatment shall be damage resistant.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1110. Security sealants.

A. General.

1. Security sealants shall be either elastomeric (tamper resistant: hardness 50 or greater) or low-mod gel (pick-resistant: hardness 70 or greater) type.

a. Tamper resistant sealants shall be provided within all inmate occupied areas subject to continuous supervision.

b. Pick resistant sealants shall be provided within all inmate occupied areas not subject to continuous supervision, such as cells.

2. Where open joints exceed security sealant capabilities to provide a full seal, a metal cover shall be provided with security sealant at its full perimeter.

3. Tamper resistant sealant with range of movements suitable for the application shall be used. Pick resistant sealant shall not be used in movable building joints.

4. Joints above ceilings, those covered by expansion joint covers or otherwise concealed are excluded from requirements for security sealants.

5. Security sealants shall be installed with a primer and in accordance with manufacturer written recommendations.

B. Inmate occupied areas.

1. Tamper resistant sealant shall be provided as transition between surface applied floor finish and transition to wall face in lieu of an applied wall base.

2. Within all cells, pick resistant sealants shall be provided for gaps and open joints at the perimeter of all permanent materials, furnishings, fixtures, and devices.

3. Tamper resistant sealant shall be provided for gaps and open joints in other than inmate cells at the perimeter of all fixtures and devices that are removable if not designed to be continuously supervised.

4. Locations for application of tamper resistant sealant include the following:

a. Dayrooms.

b. Visitation (inmate side).

c. Classrooms.

d. Indoor recreation and multipurpose rooms.

e. Inmate toilets, lavatories, and shower areas.

5. Security sealant is not required higher than 12 feet above the finished floor or beyond six feet horizontally of guard rails enclosing tier floor and landing levels in dayrooms.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.

6VAC15-81-1120. Fencing.

A. Two levels of security fencing are as follows:

1. Inmate containment fencing designed for outdoor recreation areas outside the secure perimeter shall consist of:

a. Two fences at least 12 feet in height and at least 10 feet apart.

b. Fence fabric shall be at least nine-gage, 2-1/2-inch mesh maximum opening, galvanized steel interwoven wire.

c. Razor wire shall be provided and installed per manufacturer recommendations on the top of both fences in the vee arms or on the outrigger arm on the inmate side at the top.

d. A third row of razor wire shall be located between the fences on the inmate side, adjacent to the outside fence.

e. All razor wire shall be a minimum of 24/30 inch double helix coil constructed of 100% stainless steel.

2. Fencing designed for short-term supervised emergency containment shall be:

a. At least 12 feet high.

b. At least nine-gage and 2-1/2-inch maximum opening mesh.

c. Galvanized steel wire interwoven fence fabric.

d. Topped with a minimum of three rows of barbed wire securely fastened to support arms at the top of line and corner posts angled to the inmate side.

B. Fence components including the top and bottom rails, line posts, terminal posts, tension bars, attachments, concrete footings for the fence, walk gates and truck gates, shall be in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

C. Both top and bottom selvage of the fence fabric shall be twisted and barbed.

D. All exterior fencing shall be effectively grounded.

E. After installation, all threaded fittings, connectors, and bolts shall be tack welded or peened to prevent nuts and pins from being removed. All exposed threads and connector twisted wire tie ends shall face away from the inmate side of the fence, except for double fences where the exposed threads and connector twisted wire tie ends shall face between the fences.

F. All twisted wire tie down wires shall be minimum nine-gage galvanized steel and twisted a minimum of two turns at each end.

G. Hog ring type connectors are not allowed in fencing construction.

H. Fences are not required to have barbed wire if protected by razor wire.

I. Openings between the fence post and building shall not exceed two inches.

J. Bracing shall be shielded or installed on the side of fenced away from inmates, except for double fences where the connectors and bolts shall be between fences.

K. Lock assemblies for gates in fence shall be protected from unauthorized access and tampering.

L. Tension wires are not permitted in lieu of bottom rails.

Statutory Authority

§§ 53.1-5, 53.1-80, and 53.1-82 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 12, eff. March 8, 2018.