Skip to main content
Back To Top Top Back To Top
This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 5120:1-8 | Full Service Jails

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 5120:1-8-01 | Reception and release.
 

(A) Each full-service jail, as defined in paragraph (A)(1) of rule 5120:1-7-02 of the Administrative Code, shall adhere to following standards regarding the reception and release of inmates. Each full-service jail shall implement policies and procedures, and produce documentation that evidences compliance with the following standards:

(1) (Important) All inmates are legally committed to the jail.

(2) (Important) The arresting, transporting or committing officer is identified by name and department.

(3) (Important) A booking and identification record shall be made of every commitment that includes the following information:

(a) Time and date of commitment;

(b) Name and alias;

(c) Official charge or charges;

(d) Authority for commitment;

(e) Date of birth of inmate;

(f) Sex and race of inmate;

(g) Height and weight of inmate;

(h) Marital status of inmate;

(i) Home address and telephone number of inmate;

(j) Spouse, next of kin, or person to notify in case of an emergency;

(k) Social security number;

(l) Identifying characteristics (scars, or marks.)

(4) (Important) Inmates shall be identified by photograph and/or identification bracelet during reception.

(5) (Important) Arrested persons shall be provided access to telephones after the reception process.

(6) (Important) Inmates shall be searched and all unauthorized items shall be confiscated. Confiscated items shall be listed in an inventory by objective description and secured.

(a) Money or any form of currency shall be confiscated, counted in the inmate's presence and secured.

(b) The inmate's signature shall be affixed to the completed inventory. If the signature can not be obtained, the inventory shall be witnessed by another staff person.

(c) For a minimum security jail, as defined by paragraph (A)(4) of rule 5120:1-7-02 of the Administrative Code, if inmates are permitted to possess money, the jail shall implement policies and procedures that limit the amount of money possessed and shall include provisions that prevent inmate gambling, theft and extortion.

(7) (Important) The jail shall develop and implement policies and procedures governing strip searches and body cavity searches during reception in consultation with the county prosecutor, city attorney or law director consistent with section 2933.32 of the Revised Code.

(8) (Important) Inmates who are to be integrated with the general population and/or whose clothing is soiled or infested shall receive a shower and clean uniform clothing. In a minimum security jail, if inmates are permitted to wear personal clothing, the jail shall implement a policy and procedure that limits the amount and type of personal clothing an inmate may possess while in the jail.

(9) (Important) Inmates shall not be confined in the reception area for more than twelve hours except when security, health and mental health concerns are being addressed.

(10) (Important) The jail shall develop, implement, maintain, and update as necessary a set of generally applicable inmate rules. The rules shall be accessible to all inmates and shall provide information regarding confinement including sleeping hours, meals, mail, work assignments, telephone access, visitation, correspondence, medical care, hygiene, laundry, recreation, programs, rules of conduct, disciplinary procedures and grievance procedures. A staff member or translator shall assist the inmate in understanding the inmate rules if there is a literacy or language problem. The jail shall maintain signed acknowledgements from each inmate acknowledging that the rules were received by and/or explained to them.

(11) (Important) During reception, male and female inmates shall not be placed in the same cell or unsupervised areas together.

(12) (Important) Juveniles shall not be held in jails except under rare circumstances if at all and shall be accepted only (a) under court order, (b) when all other alternative placements, including placement in the local juvenile detention center, have been considered and rejected, and (c) after the jail provides the juvenile court with information regarding the conditions under which the youth shall be held in the adult jail and the jails ability to comply with the juvenile specific standards, including paragraph (A)(12) of rule 5120:1-8-01, paragraph (B)(4) of rule 5120:1-8-02, and paragraph (K) of rule 5120:1-8-04 of the Administrative Code. Status offenders, i.e., runaways, curfew violators, etc. are prohibited from the facility. Every effort shall be made to ensure that juveniles are held in jails for the minimum amount of time necessary.

(13) (Important) Inmates' identification and release documentation shall be verified.

(14) (Important) Upon an inmate's release to another agency, the jail shall document the following information:

(a) The identity of the receiving officer and the agency;

(b) The time and date of the release;

(c) The authority for the release

(15) (Important) Upon an inmate's release or transfer, the jail shall obtain a receipt for all property returned at the time of release or transfer from the inmate, or the receiving officer, as appropriate.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2003
Rule 5120:1-8-02 | Classification.
 

(A) (Important) Each full service jail shall have a written inmate classification system that specifies the criteria and procedures for determining and changing the classification of inmates to determine the level of custody required, special needs, housing assignment and participation in programming. Each minimum security jail, as defined in paragraph (A)(4) of rule 5120:1-7-02 of the Administrative Code, shall have a written inmate classification system that limits inmates housed in the jail to those sentenced or transferred by order of a judge for a traffic offense, misdemeanor or felony of the fourth or fifth degree that are not offenses of violence as defined in division (A)(9) of section 2901.01 of the Revised Code. The classification system shall include the evaluation of each inmate to determine whether the inmate is suitable to be housed in the minimum security jail. Determination to transfer an inmate from the minimum security jail shall be made by the jail administrator or designee based on the best interests of the inmate, staff and/or the safe, secure operation of the jail.

(B) Each full service jail shall have written policies and procedures, and practices which evidence, compliance with the following standards:

(1) (Important) Male and female inmates are housed separately by sight, touch and out of range of normal conversation with each other.

(2) (Important) Violent and non-violent inmates are not placed in the same cell or unsupervised areas together.

(3) (Important) Male and female inmates are supervised if placed together for purposes of programming, transportation or other similar activities.

(4) (Important) Juvenile and adult inmates are separated in a manner consistent with sections 2151.311 and 2152.26 of the Revised Code.

(5) (Important) Jails using inmate workers shall evaluate and select workers based on established criteria.

(6) Inmates participating in work or educational release programs shall be housed separately from the general population.

(C) (Important) Juveniles shall not be held in a minimum security jail.

(D) (Important) Inmates, when placed in general population, shall be:

(1) Assigned a bed;

(2) Provided with a mattress, blanket, bed linens and towels;

(3) Provided with articles to maintain personal hygiene (toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene items and soap).

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Rule 5120:1-8-03 | Security.
 

(A) Each full service jail shall maintain the following minimum standards in regard to security of the jail.

(1) (Essential) An established security perimeter.

(2) (Essential) In a minimum security jail, there shall be a defined, controlled security perimeter.

(3) (Essential) A secure booking and release area.

(4) (Essential) Temporary weapons storage lockers or other secure storage at each point of entrance to the jail's security perimeter.

(5) (Essential) If installed, closed circuit televisions that are operational and preclude the monitoring of shower, toilet and clothing exchange areas.

(6) (Essential) A two-way communications system between central control, staffed posts and inmate occupied areas.

(7) (Essential) Equipment necessary to maintain utilities, communications, security and fire protection in an emergency. Documentation supports that such equipment is tested quarterly and repaired or replaced as needed.

(B) Each full service jail shall have written policies and procedures, and practices which evidence, that the following minimum standards are maintained.

(1) (Important) Procedures govern availability, control inventory, storage, and use of firearms, less than lethal devices, and related security devices, and specify the level of authority required for their access and use. Chemical agents and electrical disablers are used only with the authorization of the jail administrator or designee. Access to storage areas is restricted to authorized persons and the storage space is located in an area separate and apart from inmate housing or activity areas.

(2) (Important) All inmates shall be searched whenever entering or leaving the jail's security perimeter to control contraband.

(3) (Important) Procedures and practices governing strip and body cavity searches following reception shall be developed and implemented in consultation with the county prosecutor, city attorney or law director consistent with section 2933.32 of the Revised Code.

(4) (Essential) There is a plan that guides the jails response to emergencies. All jail personnel are trained in the implementation of the emergency plan. The emergency plan should include procedures to be followed in situations that threaten jail security.

(5) (Essential) The maintenance by staff of a log to record routine information, emergency situations and unusual incidents.

(6) (Essential) An official count shall be conducted to verify inmates' physical presence and identification. There shall be no less than three official counts daily, not to exceed nine hours in duration from the previous official count. The official counts will be reconciled. Jail staff conducting the count shall record the count.

(7) (Essential) Personal observation checks of inmates shall be conducted every sixty minutes on an irregular schedule. Observation checks shall be conducted at varying times and shall be documented after completion by the staff person performing the check.

(8) (Important) In jails that recognize special needs inmates, they shall develop their own policy to address the management of those inmates with special needs.

(9) (Essential) Inmates in physical restraints shall be personally checked by staff every ten minutes. The report of the use of physical restraints shall be reviewed and signed off by a non involved supervisor or higher ranking personnel. The use of physical restraints shall be reviewed for policy compliance by the jail administrator or designee.

(10) In regard to the use of force:

(a) (Essential) Use of force shall be limited to instances of justifiable self-defense, prevention of self-inflicted harm, protection of others, prevention of riot, discharge of firearm or other weapon, escape or other crime and controlling or subduing an inmate who refuses to obey a staff command or order.

(b) (Essential) Use of force shall be limited to the amount of force necessary to control a given situation. In no event is physical force used as punishment.

(c) (Essential) An examination and/or treatment by qualified health care personnel shall be provided to inmates or staff involved in a use of force incident when there is obvious physical injury or there is a complaint of injury or request for medical attention.

(d) (Essential) Use of force incidents shall be recorded and reviewed by the jail administrator or designee.

(11) Procedures guide searches of jails and inmates to control contraband.

(a) (Important) Inmate accessible areas shall be inspected in a manner that ensures all areas are inspected each month.

(b) (Essential) A security inspection of the jail shall be conducted once per month.

(c) (Essential) The jail administrator or designee shall be notified of any discovered contraband or physical security deficiencies. The appropriate disposition of contraband and the remediation of physical security deficiencies shall be documented.

(12) (Important) Inmate movement from one area to another is controlled by staff.

(13) (Important) The staff supervision and searching of inmate workers.

(14) (Important) No inmate shall be given control of or authority over any other inmate, security function or service activity.

(15) (Important) Same gender and cross gender supervision guidelines shall be provided in policy and procedure.

(16) (Important) Keys, tools and culinary equipment are inventoried and use is controlled.

(17) Toxic, corrosive and flammable substances and tools shall be:

(Important) Stored in a secure area and used by inmates only under direct supervision and used only in accordance with manufacturer's instruction. The substances are only accessible to authorized persons.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/1986, 9/21/1998, 4/20/2014
Rule 5120:1-8-04 | Housing.
 

(A) Full service jails shall provide inmates with sufficient space. The jail shall maintain documentation regarding square footage and maximum occupancy figures for all housing and holding areas, and shall comply with the following minimum requirements:

(1) Holding cells:

(Important) Sixty square feet for one to three occupants with twenty square feet for each additional occupant up to a maximum of one hundred twenty square feet (six occupants).

(2) Housing cells:

(a) (Important) Seventy square feet for single occupancy forty-eight square feet in jails constructed prior to 1983.

(b) (Important) One hundred square feet with seven feet least dimension for double occupancy, stacked bunks, one hundred ten square feet with nine feet least dimension for double occupancy, single bunks.

(c) (Important) One hundred forty-five square feet with nine feet least dimension for triple occupancy, stacked bunk and single bunk; one hundred and seventy square feet with twelve feet least dimension for triple occupancy, single bunks.

(d) (Important) One hundred eighty square feet with nine feet least dimension for quadruple occupancy, two stacked bunks, two hundred fifteen square feet with twelve feet least dimension for quadruple occupancy, single bunks.

(3) Dormitory sleeping space:

(Important) Fifty square feet per occupant, except forty-eight square feet in jails constructed prior to 1983, wherein the formula shall be based upon the requirements of paragraph (A)(2)(a) of rule 5120:1-8-04 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Dayspace:

(Important) Thirty five square feet per number of occupants occupying the dayspace at one time. Minimum size of one hundred five square feet. The inmates will be granted regular, daily access to the dayspace area, subject to limitations necessary to maintain safety, security, and order. Jail administrators should approve any denial of dayspace in writing.

(B) (Important) Seating shall be provided in holding areas, holding cells, housing cells, dormitories, dayrooms and eating areas for each inmate.

(C) (Important) Single cells/rooms and multiple occupancy cells/rooms/dormitories shall have an air circulation of fifteen cubic feet of outside or recirculated filtered air per minute per occupant or as required by the local authority having jurisdiction. Documentation from a qualified source shall be maintained by the jail.

(D) (Important) Temperature is mechanically raised or lowered to acceptable comfort levels.

(E) (Important) Sanitation facilities shall include access to an operable flush toilet and lavatory with hot and cold potable water on a twenty-four hour a day basis without staff assistance.

(F) (Important) Toilet facilities at a minimum of one operable toilet for every twelve occupants.

(G) (Important) Shower facilities at a minimum of one operable shower for every twelve occupants. Water temperatures shall be controlled thermostatically in a range from one hundred five to one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit.

(H) (Important) One operable wash basin with hot and cold potable water for every twelve occupants.

(I) (Important) Noise levels in inmate housing units shall not exceed 70 dBA (A Scale). Measurements shall be conducted annually by a qualified source with at least one measurement taking place during night time hours and one measurement taking place during daytime hours.

(J) (Important) Natural light shall be provided in housing units, dorms, cells and/or dayspaces.

(K) (Essential) Unadjudicated juvenile inmates shall be separated by sight and sound from adult inmates.

(L) (Important) If inmate access to clothing, bed, bedding, toilet, lavatory and shower are suspended, there shall be a daily review for reinstatement by the jail administrator or designee.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/1986
Rule 5120:1-8-05 | Sanitation and environmental conditions.
 

(A) (Essential) The jail shall provide all inmates with hygiene articles at intake and replacement items to indigent inmates.

(B) (Essential) All areas of a full service jail shall be safe and sanitary, including the food service and laundry areas. Staff and inmates shall have specific housekeeping responsibilities, which shall include, but are not limited to daily cleaning of toilets, urinals, sinks, drinking facilities and showers in areas occupied by inmates and disposal of garbage.

(C) (Essential) Monthly sanitation, vermin and safety inspections of all areas shall be done by a designated trained staff person.

(D) (Important) Regular maintenance and repairs shall occur.

(E) (Essential) The jail shall be inspected annually by local or state health authorities and a written report shall be provided. There shall be a written plan to correct jail-related deficiencies.

(F) (Important) All grounds, walkways, driveways and parking areas shall be illuminated at night.

(G) The jails shall maintain documentation that the following standards are met with regard to interior lighting:

(1) (Important) At least twenty foot-candles, measured thirty inches above the floor, in inmate reading areas.

(2) (Important) At least fifteen foot-candles, measured thirty inches above the floor, in inmate accessible areas.

(3) (Important) Lighting in inmate sleeping areas shall be reducible to between two and four foot-candles, measured thirty inches above the floor.

(H) The jail shall maintain documentation that the following standards are met with regard to bedding, linens and clothing:

(1) (Important )Bedding and mattresses shall be in good repair and cleaned prior to being reissued;

(2) (Important) Clean bed linens and towels shall be exchanged once weekly. Issuance of clean linens and towels shall be documented;

(3) (Important) Issued clothing shall be exchanged or laundered twice weekly. Arrangements are made to exchange or launder personal clothing and undergarments twice weekly;

(4) (Important) Blankets shall be cleaned or exchanged at intervals not to exceed thirty days;

(5) (Important) Mattresses shall be cleaned at intervals not to exceed thirty days;

(6) (Important) Bedding, mattresses, towels and clothing shall be exchanged or cleaned when soiled.

(I) (Important) Each inmate shall be provided the opportunity for a hot shower not to exceed forty-eight hours.

(J) (Important) The jail shall make provisions for inmate haircuts.

(K) (Important) Shaving equipment and supplies shall be made available daily. Issuance and retrieval of shaving equipment and supplies shall be documented.

(L) (Essential) The jail shall be inspected annually by a certified local or state fire safety inspector applying the applicable jurisdictional and Ohio Fire Code. The jail shall have a written plan to correct any jail-related deficiencies. The jail shall maintain documentation of the inspections and any corrective measures taken.

(M) (Essential) The jail shall have a written fire safety plan approved by local fire officials, and that is reviewed annually and updated as needed. The plan shall include fire prevention, training and drills, fire response and post-fire documentation and review. A current copy of the plan shall be maintained at the local fire department.

(N) (Important) Training in jail fire safety equipment shall be conducted annually.

(O) (Essential) Fire drills shall be conducted at intervals not to exceed ninety days on each shift.

(P) (Essential) Jail furnishings shall meet fire safety performance standards.

(Q) (Essential) Jail exits shall be clear and evacuation routes shall be posted or clearly marked throughout the jail.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/1994
Rule 5120:1-8-06 | Communication.
 

(A) (Important) There shall be no limitation on the amount of incoming or outgoing mail or correspondence via the postal service when the inmate is responsible for the costs of postage.

(B) (Important) Incoming inmate mail, correspondence and packages shall be opened and inspected to intercept contraband or non permitted items. Outgoing mail may be inspected or opened at the discretion of the jail administrator or designee. The jail shall document procedures for the appropriate disposition of intercepted items.

(C) (Important) Legal mail or correspondence shall be opened and inspected in the presence of the inmate to intercept contraband. The jail shall document procedures for the appropriate disposition of intercepted items.

(D) (Important) Mail, correspondence and packages shall only be withheld, read or rejected based on legitimate jail interests of order and security and is justified and approved by the jail administrator or designee in writing. The inmate shall be notified if mail is withheld or rejected.

(E) (Important) If a jail offers email service to inmates in accordance with division (C)(1) of section 341.42 of Revised Code, the incoming and outgoing emails shall be subject to review for security reasons.

(F) (Important) Indigent inmates shall receive writing materials, envelopes and postage for two letters per week.

(G) (Important) Inmates shall have access to inmate telephone services.

(H) (Important) Inmates shall have access to legal counsel of record including telephone contact, written communication, and confidential visits.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2003, 4/20/2014
Rule 5120:1-8-07 | Visitation.
 

(A) (Important) There is a secure visiting area that physically separates the inmate and visitor with capability for two-way conversation and non-obscured and/or video visitation.

(B) (Important) The visitation area shall be equipped with seating.

(C) (Important) Visitors shall be required to provide valid identification.

(D) (Important) Visitors shall register upon entry into the jail. The registry shall include the date, visitor names, inmate visited and length of the visit.

(E) (Important) The jail shall provide general visitation hours that provide inmates the opportunity for thirty minutes of visitation per week. If the jail utilizes video visitation, it will provide weekly general visitation hours that are supported by the video visitation system utilized, no less than twenty minutes per visit. A schedule of visiting hours shall be posted in inmate and visitor areas.

(F) (Important) Written policy and procedures shall govern contact and special visits.

(G) (Important) The jail shall establish visitor security procedures to prevent contraband from entering the jail.

(H) (Important) Visits shall be restricted only if the jail administrator or designee determines that a visit is a threat to safety, security or the best interests of the jail. The jail administrator or designee shall document restrictions in writing.

(I) (Important) Visits between inmates and members of the public shall be monitored and may be recorded by any means for safety and security reasons.

(J) (Important) Professional visits by attorneys of record or clergy shall be permitted as dictated by jail safety and security needs.

Last updated February 12, 2024 at 4:17 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1981
Rule 5120:1-8-09 | Medical/mental health.
 

(A) (Essential) Health authority. The jail has a designated health authority with responsibility for health and/or mental health care services pursuant a written agreement, contract or job description. The health authority may be a physician, health administrator or agency. When the health authority is other than a local physician, final clinical judgment rests with a single, designated, responsible, local physician licensed in Ohio. The health authority is responsible and authorized to:

(1) Provide written policies and procedures specifically designed for the jail for all aspects of this standard that shall be reviewed on an annual basis.

Written policies and procedures shall be easily accessible to staff and simple to understand.

(2) Arranges for all levels of health care, mental health care and dental care and assures quality, accessible and timely services for inmates. When necessary medical, mental health or dental care is not available at the jail, inmates are referred to an appropriate setting.

(3) Ensure where there is a separate organizational structure for mental health services; there is a designated mental health clinician.

(4) Ensure decisions and actions regarding health care and mental health care meet inmates serious medical and mental health needs are the sole responsibility of qualified health care and mental health professionals.

(5) No inmate shall be denied necessary health care, as designated by the health authority.

(B) (Essential) Inmate pre-screen. Before acceptance into jail, health-trained personnel shall inquire about, but not be limited to the following conditions and the health authority shall develop policies for the acceptance or denial of admission for:

(1) Suicide thoughts/plan.

(2) Current serious or potentially serious medical or mental health issues needing immediate attention.

(3) The use of taser, pepper spray or other less lethal use of force during arrest.

(4) Observe for signs of and inquire about drug and/or alcohol intoxication or abuse.

(C) (Essential) Receiving screen. Health trained personnel, in accordance with protocols established by the health authority, shall perform a written medical, dental and mental health receiving screening on each inmate upon arrival at the jail and prior to being placed in general population.

(1) Inquiry includes at least the following:

(a) Current and past illness and health problems;

(b) Current and past dental problems;

(c) Current and past mental health problems;

(d) Allergies;

(e) Current medications for medical and mental health;

(f) Hospitalizations for medical or mental health purpose(s);

(g) Special health needs;

(h) Serious infection or communicable illness(s);

(i) Use of alcohol and drugs including types, amounts and frequency used, date or time of last use and history of any problems after ceasing use i.e. withdrawal symptoms;

(j) Suicidal risk assessment;

(k) Possibility of pregnancy;

(l) Other health problems as designated by the health authority.

(2) Observation of the following:

(a) Behavior including state of consciousness, mental health status, appearance, conduct, tremors and sweating;

(b) Body deformities and ease of movement;

(c) Condition of skin, including trauma markings, bruises, lesions, jaundice, rashes, infestations and needle marks or other indications of drug abuse.

(3) Medical disposition of inmate:

(a) General population;

(b) General population with prompt referral to appropriate health or mental health services;

(c) Referral for emergency treatment;

(d) Medical observation/isolation;

(e) Mental health observation/precautions;

(f) Documentation of date, time and signature and title of person completing screening.

(D) (Essential) Health appraisal. Within fourteen days, a licensed nurse, physician, physicians assistant, or paramedic shall complete a health appraisal to determine the medical and mental health condition for each inmate in custody. Such appraisal shall at least include the following:

(1) Review of receiving screen.

(2) Collection of additional data to complete the medical, dental and mental health history.

(3) Laboratory, and/or diagnostic tests to detect tuberculosis and other suspected communicable diseases as designated by the health authority.

(4) Recording the height, weight, pulse, blood pressure and temperature.

(5) Medical examination as determined by the examiner.

(6) Mental health assessment.

(7) Initiation of therapy when determined necessary by the examiner.

(8) Development and implementation of a treatment plan.

If performed by an licensed practical nurse or paramedic, the assessment should be reviewed and approved by a registered nurse or more highly qualified health care professional.

(9) Other test and examination as determined by the examiner or health authority.

(E) (Essential) Full-service scope. The jail provides twenty-four-hour emergency medical, dental, and mental health care services.

(F) (Essential) Sick call. A physician and/or qualified health care professional conducts sick call.

(1) Once per week for jails with an average daily population of less than fifty.

(2) Three times per week for jails with an average population of less than one hundred ninety-nine.

(3) Five times per week for jails with an average daily population of two hundred or more.

(G) (Essential) Credentials. All health and mental health care personnel who provide services to inmates are appropriately credentialed according to the licensure, certification, and registration requirements of Ohio. Verification of current credentials is on file at the facility. Health care staff work in accordance with profession-specific job descriptions approved by the health authority.

(H) (Essential) Health and mental health complaints. The jail shall ensure that there is a daily procedure whereby inmates have an opportunity to report medical and mental health complaints through health trained personnel, or for urgent matters, to any jail employee. The jail employee shall contact the appropriate medical or mental health department immediately. An inmate grievance system for medical and mental health treatment shall be established by the health authority. Both daily complaints and grievances shall be:

(1) Addressed in a timely manner.

(2) Recorded and maintained on file.

(3) Reviewed daily by qualified health care personnel and treatment or follow-up shall be provided as necessary.

(I) (Important) Personal physician treatment. Inmates can be treated by a personal physician in the jail at their own expense, upon the approval by the jail physician, provided that the current credentials of the personal physician are verified.

(J) (Essential) Medical/mental health record. The jail shall maintain an accurate health/mental health record in written or electronic format. The health authority shall develop policies and procedures concerning the following areas:

(1) Health records remain confidential and are only accessible to personnel designated by the health authority.

(2) Correctional staff may be advised of inmates health/mental health status only to preserve the health and safety of the inmate, other inmates, jail staff and in accordance state and federal laws.

(3) Retention and reactivation of said records if an inmate returns to the facility.

(4) Transfer of medical/mental health information or record to external care provider.

(K) (Essential) Pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceuticals are managed in accordance with policies and procedures approved by the health authority and in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations and include the following:

(1) The policies require dispensing and administering prescribed medications by health-trained personnel or professionally trained personnel, adequate management of controlled medications, and provisions of medication to inmates in special management units.

(2) The jail shall develop a policy, approved by the health authority, regarding incoming medications.

(L) (Important) Dental care. Inmates shall be provided dental and oral care under the direction and supervision of a dentist licensed in the state of Ohio. There is a system of established priorities for care, when in the dentists judgment, the inmates health would otherwise be adversely affected.

(M) (Essential) Mental health services. Inmates evidencing signs of mental illness or developmental disability shall be referred immediately to qualified mental health personnel. The health authority shall develop policies for the following areas:

(1) Screening for mental health problems.

(2) Referral to outpatient services, including psychiatric care.

(3) Crisis intervention and management of acute psychiatric episodes.

(4) Stabilization of the mentally ill and prevention of psychiatric deterioration in the jail.

(5) Referral and admission to inpatient facilities.

(6) Informed consent.

(N) (Essential) Suicide prevention program. The health authority shall have a plan for identifying and responding to suicidal and potentially suicidal inmates. The plan components shall include:

(1) Identification The receiving screening form contains observation and interview items related to the inmates potential suicide risk. Circumstances include but are not limited to: profound incidents/issues, court dates, loss of significant others either by accident, natural causes or by suicide, sentencing, divorce, rejection, bad news, after a humiliating issue, etc. may be high risk periods for inmates.

(2) Training Staff members who work with inmates are trained to recognize verbal and behavioral cues that indicate potential suicide and how to respond appropriately. The plan includes initial and annual training.

(3) Assessment The plan specifies a suicide risk assessment and level system. The assessment needs to be completed every time an inmate is identified as being or potentially being suicidal, or if circumstances change. Only a qualified mental health professional may remove inmates from suicide risk status.

(4) Housing The plan must designate the housing beds/units for the suicidal or potentially suicidal inmates.

(5) Monitoring The plan specifies the procedures for monitoring an inmate who has been identified as potentially suicidal. A suicidal inmate is checked at varied intervals not to exceed ten minutes. Regular documented supervision is maintained. Inmates are placed in a designated cell, all belongings removed and other prevention precautions initiated, as appropriate.

(6) Referral The plan specifies the procedures for referring a potentially suicidal inmate and attempted suicides to a mental health care provider or facility, and includes time frames.

(7) Communication The plan specifies for ongoing communications (oral and written), notifications between health care and correctional personnel regarding the status of suicidal inmates.

(8) Intervention The plan addresses how to handle a suicide in progress, including first-aid measures.

(9) Notification The plan includes procedures of notifying the jail administrator, outside authorities and family members of completed suicides. The plan shall consider safety and security issues when it comes to notification.

(10) Reporting The plan includes procedures for documenting, monitoring and reporting attempted or completed suicides. Completed suicides are immediately reported to the coroner/medical examiner and the division of parole and community services within thirty days of the incident.

(11) Review The plan specifies procedures for medical and administrative review if a suicide or a serious suicide attempt occurs.

(12) Critical incident debriefing The plan specifies the procedures for offering critical incident debriefing to affected staff and inmates.

(O) (Important) Emergency equipment/supplies. Emergency medical equipment and supplies, as determined by the health authority shall be available at all times and replenished, as needed and may include automatic external defibrillators (AEDs).

(P) (Essential) Infectious disease control program. The health authority shall have a written infectious disease control program which collaborates with the local health department and shall include, at minimum, an exposure control plan and standard isolation precautions for inmates and staff, which are updated annually. The health authority shall develop written policy and procedure.

(Q) (Essential) Pregnant inmate. Pregnant inmates shall receive appropriate and timely pre-natal care, delivery and postpartum care, as determined by the health authority.

(R) (Essential) Restraints. Use of restraints for medical and psychiatric purposes shall be applied in accordance with policies and procedures approved by the health authority, including:

(1) Conditions under which restraints may be applied.

(2) Types of restraints to be applied.

(3) Identification of a qualified medical or mental health professional who may authorize the use of restraints after reaching the conclusion that less intrusive measures are not a viable alternative.

(4) Monitoring procedures.

(5) Length of time restraints are to be applied.

(a) There shall be ten-minute, varied checks by correctional staff;

(b) There shall be thirty-minute checks by health-trained personnel;

(c) Inmates in medical restraints, if possible, after every two hours of continuous use, each extremity is freed or exercised for a period of five to ten minutes.

(6) Documentation of efforts for less restrictive treatment alternatives.

(7) An after-incident review.

(S) (Important) Continuous quality improvement program. The health authority shall develop a continuous quality improvement (CPI) system of monitoring and reviewing, at least annually, the fundamental aspects of the jails health/mental health care system, including but not limited to: access to care; the intake process; emergency care and hospitalizations; and, adverse inmate occurrences, including all deaths. Periodic chart reviews are included to determine the timeliness and appropriateness of the clinical care provided to inmates.

(T) (Important) Emergency response plan The health aspects of the emergency response plan (mass disaster drill & man down drill). Emergency medical care, including first aid and basic life support, is provided by all health care professionals and those health-trained correctional staff specifically designated by the jail administrator. All staff responding to medical emergencies are certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in accordance with the recommendations of certifying health organizations.

(U) (Essential) Continuing education for health trained personnel. All qualified health care professionals participate annually in continuing education appropriate for their position.

(V) (Essential) Special nutritional and medical diets. Inmate diets are modified when ordered by the appropriate licensed individual to meet specific requirements related to clinical conditions.

(W) (Essential) Intoxication and detoxification. The health authority shall develop specific policies and protocols in accordance with local, state and federal laws for the treatment and observation of inmates manifesting symptoms of intoxication or detoxification from alcohol, opiates, hypnotics, or other drugs. Specific criteria are established for immediately transferring inmates experiencing severe, life-threatening intoxication (overdose) or detoxification symptoms to a hospital or detoxification center.

(X) (Essential) Confidentiality. Information about an inmates health status is confidential. Non health trained staff only have access to specific medical information on a "need to know" basis in order to preserve the health and safety of the specific inmate, other inmates, volunteers, visitors, criminal justice professionals or correctional staff.

(Y) (Important) Informed consent. The health authority shall develop a policy and procedure requiring that all examinations, treatments and procedures are governed by informed consent practices applicable in the jails jurisdiction.

(Z) (Important) Privacy. The health authority shall develop a policy whereby health care encounters, including medical and mental health interviews, examinations, and procedures are conducted in a setting that respects the inmates privacy.

(AA) (Important) Inmate death. In all inmate deaths, the health authority determines the appropriateness of clinical care; ascertains whether corrective action in the systems policies, procedures, or practices is warranted; and, identifies trends that require further study.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1981, 2/21/2003
Rule 5120:1-8-10 | Food service.
 

(A) (Essential) There shall be documentation that the food service operation complies with the regulations of the local or state health department.

(B) (Essential) Inmates shall be served a minimum of three meals daily at regularly scheduled intervals, not to exceed fourteen hours between meals. Inmates can be served a minimum of two meals daily at regularly scheduled intervals, not to exceed fourteen hours between meals, on weekends, state holidays and during emergencies.

(C) (Essential) Menu cycles and contents shall be evaluated and approved annually by a licensed nutritionist or registered dietitian or registered dietitian nutritionist.

(D) (Important) Records of food items served at meals shall be maintained pursuant to the jail's record retention schedule.

(E) (Essential) The jail shall make provisions for modified diets by physician's order or to accommodate the mandatory dietary requirements of a recognized religion practiced by the inmate.

(F) (Important) Except as noted in paragraph (E) of this rule and in paragraph (V) of rule 5120:1-8-09 of the Administrative Code, all inmates in the jail are to be served the same meal unless the inmate uses food or food service equipment in a manner that is hazardous to self, staff, or other inmates.

An inmate's menu may be modified on the basis of health or safety considerations for a period not to exceed seven consecutive days, as long as the menu meets basic nutritional requirements and occurs with the written approval of the jail and the approval of a licensed nutritionist, registered dietitian, or registered dietitian nutritionist.

(G) (Essential) All persons involved in the preparation of food shall receive a pre-assignment medical examination and annual re-examinations.

(H) The jail shall institute policies and procedures that require:

(1) (Essential) All food handlers are instructed to wash their hands upon reporting for kitchen duty, after restroom breaks and/or after handling unsanitary items.

(2) (Essential) The food services manager or designee is responsible for a healthy and sanitary kitchen environment and shall immediately address any health or cleanliness issues with kitchen staff or inmate workers.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1981, 4/20/2014
Rule 5120:1-8-11 | Recreation and programming.
 

(A) (Important) Exercise and/or equipment for inmates shall be provided and the jail shall ensure that inmates are offered at least five hours per week.

(B) (Important) The jail shall provide for inmate television viewing and table games.

(C) (Important) The jail shall provide inmate access to reading materials.

(D) (Important) The jail shall provide the opportunity for alcohol and drug abuse treatment, academic training, psychological and social services and other community services.

(E) (Important) Inmates shall be permitted to practice a recognized religion subject to limitations necessary to maintain security and order.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1981
Rule 5120:1-8-12 | Inmate Disciplinary Process.
 

(A) (Important) Written inmate rules shall specify prohibited acts or conduct, degrees of violations, ranges of penalties and disciplinary hearing procedures.

(B) (Important) There shall be a sanctioning schedule for rule violations. The jail administrator or designee shall approve any penalty exceeding suspension of rights or disciplinary isolation for more than one hundred twenty hours. The maximum sanction for rule violations shall be no more than sixty days for violations arising out of one incident. Continuous confinement for more than thirty days requires the review and approval of the jail administrator or designee.

(C) (Important) Inmate rules shall specify the fundamental rights that cannot be suspended except in an emergency or other condition beyond the control of the jail administrator.

(D) (Important) Jail disciplinary measures shall not include corporal punishment, discipline administered by inmates and withholding food.

(E) (Important) Each jail shall have a written policy that specifies the circumstances under which a disciplinary hearing is conducted.

(F) (Important) Pre-disciplinary hearing requirements shall include, at minimum a written incident report, an inmates opportunity to waive in writing the disciplinary hearing, an investigation that commences within twenty-four hours of the incident to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to support the charge, and written notification to the inmate of the nature and date of the violation within twenty-four hours of the alleged violation(s) or discovery of the alleged violation(s).

(G) (Important) The inmate shall have a minimum period of twenty-four hours after receiving written notification of the rule violation(s) to prepare for the disciplinary hearing. The inmate may waive the twenty-four hour period. The inmate is given a hearing within forty-eight hours excluding holidays, weekends, and emergencies after receiving the written notification if placed in isolation or within three business days if the inmate is not placed in isolation. Postponement of the hearing may be granted.

(H) (Important) Disciplinary hearing requirements shall include an impartial hearing officer appointed by the jail administrator or designee, the inmates opportunity to be heard, present evidence and question witnesses subject to limitations imposed by the hearing officer, the hearing officer shall state the reasons for any limitations in writing, a written statement by the hearing officer of the facts relied upon and reasons for the imposition of any penalties shall be provided to the inmate and a copy placed in the inmates file, and selection by the jail administrator or designee of a staff person to assist an inmate when the inmate is unable to effectively communicate.

(I) (Important) Jail inmates shall be afforded an opportunity to appeal disciplinary actions to the jail administrator or designee.

Last updated March 24, 2023 at 11:30 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 2/21/2003
Rule 5120:1-8-15 | Administrative segregation.
 

(A) (Important) Each jail shall have written policies and procedures that govern the administrative segregation of inmates from the general population.

(B) (Important) The use of administrative segregation as a penalty shall be prohibited.

(C) (Important) Administrative segregation shall be employed to separate an inmate from the general population whenever one or more of the following exists:

(1) The inmate presents an inability to conform with established standards of behavior for general population.

(2) The inmate poses a threat to self, others, or the security of the jail.

(3) The inmate presents a need for protection as determined by the jail administrator or designee.

(4) The inmate is at risk of spreading a communicable disease.

(5) The jail administrator or designee has otherwise determined that such segregation is necessary and in the best interests of the inmate, staff, or the safe and secure operation of the jail.

(D) (Important) Within twenty-four hours of administrative segregation, the inmate shall be provided with written documentation of the reason for confinement. The inmate shall be provided an opportunity for a written or oral response to the jail administrator or designee, to be reviewed within seventy-two hours for determination of continued confinement.

(E) (Important) Inmates held in administrative segregation for thirty consecutive days shall receive an administrative review by the jail administrator or designee. Subsequent reviews shall be conducted every thirty days. Reviews shall be documented.

(F) (Important) Inmates in administrative segregation shall receive all privileges and rights unless the inmate poses a threat to the security of the jail or the health and welfare of him/herself or others. Any suspension or modification of privileges and/or rights shall be documented.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/1986, 9/21/1998
Rule 5120:1-8-16 | Grievance.
 

(A) (Important) Inmate rules shall include a grievance procedure that is available to inmates and includes at least one level of appeal.

(B) (Important) Retaliation by staff for inmate grievances is prohibited.

Last updated February 21, 2024 at 1:42 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1981, 9/21/1998
Rule 5120:1-8-17 | Staffing.
 

(A) (Important) Each full service jail shall have a designated jail administrator who is qualified by training or experience to supervise and control inmates as outlined in a written job description.

(B) (Important) Pre-employment background checks shall be conducted prior to hiring of jail staff.

(C) (Important) Annual standardized performance reviews of jail employees shall be conducted.

(D) (Important) There shall be a written, implemented staffing plan that includes jail personnel assignments, days of the week and hours of the day that assignments are covered and any deviations from the plan with respect to weekends, holidays or other atypical situations.

(1) The plan shall include all posts and functions, a calculated shift relief factor, sufficient numbers of male and female jail staff on-duty and available to perform sensitive functions and procedures as necessary by inmate gender, and total number of employees required to fill identified posts and functions.

(2) The plan shall reflect that the jail has staff for administration and supervision; inmate programs; inmate supervision, custody and back up; support services including medical, food service, maintenance and clerical; staff training; and other jail-related functions such as escort and transportation of inmates.

(3) The staffing plan shall be reviewed once a year by the jail administrator and revised as needed.

(E) (Important) A staff person shall be designated in charge or supervisor of each shift.

(F) (Important) There shall be a written policy and procedure governing the screening, training and use of volunteers in the jail.

(G) (Important) A written code of ethics shall be provided to jail staff.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/1986, 2/21/2003
Rule 5120:1-8-18 | Staff training.
 

(A) (Important) Jail support staff with routine contact shall receive training in pertinent agency policies and procedures prior to or in conjunction with assignment to jail duties

(1) During the first year of assignment receive twenty-four hours of training including legal aspects of corrections, basic security concepts, emergency preparedness, interpersonal communications, first aid/CPR, unarmed self-defense, and "Standards for Jails in Ohio."

(2) Two hours of in-service training each subsequent year of employment addressing specific job assignments and/or jail related issues.

(B) (Important) Correctional officers shall receive training as follows:

(1) Training in jail policies and within sixty days of employment.

(2) During the first year of assignment, training consistent with Chapter 109:2-9 of the Administrative Code.

Correctional officers that present proof of completion of the new employee orientation (NEO) training through the Ohio department of rehabilitation and correction satisfy the training requirement in Chapter 109:2-9 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Eight hours of -service training each subsequent year of employment addressing specific job assignments and/or jail related issues. These training hours are in addition to training mandated by other standards.

(C) (Important) Administrators and supervisors shall receive training in addition to the training specified in paragraph (B) of this rule as follows:

(1) Training in jail policies and procedures prior to assignment to jail duties.

(2) During the first year of assignment, forty hours of training including legal aspects of jail management, managerial principles, labor relations, and records/information management.

(3) Eight hours of in-service training each subsequent year of employment addressing special issues, skills-enhancement, and other assignment related topics.

(D) (Important) Jail support staff with occasional contact shall receive training in pertinent agency policies and procedures prior to or in conjunction with assignment to jail duties.

(E) (Important) The jail policies and procedures shall be available to jail staff, reviewed annually and updated by the sheriff, jail administrator, or designee, as needed.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5120.01, 5120.10
Amplifies: 5120.10
Five Year Review Date: 1/24/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 6/2/1986, 7/1/1994