(1) It is the policy of the state of Montana that the department of corrections and the facilities it operates or with which it contracts maintain safe, secure housing for inmates who require separation from the general inmate population for detention or for safety and security reasons.
(2) Restrictive housing should be used only:
(a) as a response to the most serious and threatening behavior;
(b) for the shortest time possible; and
(c) with the least restrictive conditions possible.