on imposing punishments which amount to torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. The SMRs prohibit the use of arbitrary punishments and require an efficient chain of communication to ensure all punishments imposed are recorded, and informed to senior officers to ensure accountability. It requires physicians also to document and report to higher authorities when they become aware of any visible signs of torture. Prolonged and indefinite solitary confinement is prohibited by the SMRs. The reiteration that ward conditions must meet acceptable standards of light, space and ventilation places emphasis on the prohibition of adverse living conditions in cells used for solitary confinement that will exacerbate the punishment. Medical personnel are required to monitor sanctioned prisoners and report on any physical or mental detriment caused as a result of solitary confinement. 2. Respecting inherent dignity as a human being The SMRs consistently remind state parties of the need to respect the inherent dignity of prisoners as human beings. The training of prison officers should specifically include respect for the inherent dignity of prisoners and the prohibition of conduct that amounts to torture. For instance, the prohibition of prisoners’ outfits being degrading and the requirement to allow men to shave regularly ‘to maintain a good appearance compatible with their selfrespect’, illustrate that respecting the prisoners’ inherent dignity as human beings is a fundamental principle espoused by this instrument. This principle is reiterated when discussing the use of mechanical restraints in SMR 47, which states that inherently degrading and painful restraints cannot be used, and SMR 50, which states that searches of prisoners must be conducted respecting the principle of legality, proportionality and necessity, and in a manner that is respectful of the inherent human dignity and privacy of the individual. SMR 91 states that the treatment of prisoners should ‘encourage their self-respect and develop their sense of responsibility’. The requirement to treat prisoners with dignity is also applicable to the body of a deceased prisoner. 3. Accountability The SMRs on the importance of an efficient information management system and the confidential yet logical and methodical storage of prisoners’ personal details, demonstrate that accountability is a core theme of the SMRs. For instance, the Rules seek to assign accountability by requiring prisons to record upon admission visible injury marks and complaints of any ill-treatment inflicted on prisoners during arrest. Additionally, an initial medical screening by a medical officer is required to identify any psychological distress and/or signs of ill-treatment, which would enable injuries caused before entering the prison 19