US · guidance
BOP Program Statement 5218.01 § 5
CONDITIONS OF CONFINEMENT
RU inmates will be provided regular direct access to Food Service, Trust Fund, Health Services,
Education, and Recreation staff.
Unit. The RU is to be separated from general population and solely house RU inmates. The
appearance of the unit is notably different from general population, with art displays/murals on
the walls, encouraging slogans, and posters. Considering safety and security limitations, the unit
must have areas for groups, meditation, and exercise equipment (e.g., treadmill, elliptical).
Ordinarily, inmates must also be given regular access to these areas.
Movement. When it becomes necessary for inmates housed in the RU to leave the unit, whether
for programming or otherwise, it is imperative they be kept separate from all general population
inmates. Safety and security considerations are paramount any time RU inmates leave the
confines of the unit.
Visiting. RU inmates are offered in-person visitation in accordance with the Program Statement
Visiting Regulations and applicable Institution Supplements.
Outside Recreation. Except in emergency situations, RU inmates are offered one hour of
outside recreation separate from all general population inmates at least five times per week.
Meals. RU inmates must be given the opportunity to eat at least two meals per weekday and one
meal per weekend day in the institution cafeteria, except in extenuating circumstances.
5218.01 3/19/2026 PROPERTY OF US GOVERNMENT 3
Programming. Education, Recreation, Chaplaincy Services, and Psychology Services will offer
programming throughout the week in the RU or ensure RU inmates have access to services in
their respective departments.
Programming will address First Step Act (FSA), reentry, and mental health needs. RU
Psychologists and Treatment Specialists will ordinarily have offices in the unit affording inmates
increased access to mental health providers. The RU Psychologist will work with other
departments to develop a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule with various programs and
activities that provide structure for the unit. To encourage engagement in programming, the RU
Psychologist will develop, implement, and oversee a structured behaviorally oriented incentive
program.
History
PS 5218.01 dated 2026-03-19
Provenance
- Source
- bop.gov
- Retrieved
- 2026-09-20
- Edition
- bop-ps-2026-09-20
- Content hash
cd2d4451230bf699a3f97284d76f3fdd5563e08745de19ed81819b3607e158b5
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