SECTION 380.9103. Living Environment

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish basic physical plant requirements for the living areas within TJJD residential facilities.

(b) Applicability. This rule applies to high and medium restriction facilities operated by TJJD, unless otherwise indicated.

(c) General Provisions.

(1) Heating, ventilation, lighting, and acoustical systems provide for comfortable living and working conditions for youth and staff.

(2) Ventilation systems provide at least 15 cubic feet of outside or recirculated filtered air per minute, per occupant, in housing areas, staff stations, and dining areas.

(3) All housing units have access to a drinking fountain within the housing unit.

(4) Dayrooms are situated adjacent to youth sleeping areas and provide the following:

(A) a minimum of 35 square feet per youth for the maximum number of youth who use the room at one time, not including lavatories, showers, and toilets;

(B) furnishings consistent with the custody level of the youth assigned; and

(C) sufficient seating and writing surfaces for the maximum number of youth who use the room at one time.

(5) At least 20 foot-candles of light is provided at the writing level and in personal grooming areas.

(6) Light from an opening or window that has a view to the outside is available:

(A) in each sleeping room; or

(B) from a source within 20 feet of each sleeping room.

Source Note: The provisions of this §380.9103 adopted to be effective December 31, 1996, 21 TexReg 12183; transferred effective June 4, 2012, as published in the Texas Register June 22, 2012, 37 TexReg 4639; amended to be effective April 15, 2015, 40 TexReg 1976