The recent COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the importance of air quality for our survival and wellbeing. The importance of the air that we breath for dignity, health and wellbeing extends far beyond the risk of pathogens, however. Air is a complex topic: it relates not only to breathing, but also to smell, for example. Overcrowding is a significant factor in terms of the risks, as are poor sanitation and ventilation. The physical fabric of places of detention is also a central consideration: measures must be taken to mitigate issues here both in the short and long term.
Poor air quality can be caused by a lack of ventilation, especially in confined spaces. It is also closely linked to issues with hygiene. Lack of access to water for washing and confinement close to or with toilets — particularly in shared cells — raise important issues concerning not just personal comfort but also privacy and dignity. Certain smells may attract insects and pests, creating further health risks. Specific risks to health and wellbeing can arise from practices such as smoking, including in communal spaces.
Smell can be a significant triggering factor for trauma, not only during the period of detention itself: smells experienced in detention may become triggers for trauma after release. Neurodiverse people may be highly sensitive to smell and more at risk from negative impacts. Here, it is important to remember that the risk comes not only from ‘bad’ smells but potentially also from the smells of particular food, cleaning products, personal hygiene products and perfume, forexample.
Key Considerations for Detention Monitors
Are you aware of changes in smell when you enter the detention setting, or different parts of the detention setting?
Do you observe any smoking indoors, near windows or entrances?
Is there enough space, especially in shared cells, for effective ventilation/movement of air?