Despite the fact that inmate populations are becoming more volatile (greater levels of violence are seen in commitment offenses -- prisons are 29% beyond rated capacity) only about two sexual assaults occurred per month in 1983 in a system that confines 31,000 inmates. In previous reports, covering the time period between 1973 and 1977, the same sexual assault frequency was observed. This report also contrasts some of the findings from the Federal study with results from other reports. For example, several major studies contend that racial conflict is a major motivating force behind sexual assaults, but the Federal study calls this interpretation into question. Third, the paper discusses the Federal Bureau of Prisons' policy on homosexual activity and family visitation programs. Finally, the paper describes some processes in corrections which will make prisons generally safer for all inmates including better inmate risk assessment procedures, accreditation, prison architectural advancements, and work by the National Institute of Corrections. Corrections officials are urged to consider using 'rape kits,' a systematic procedure for gathering and testing evidence from alleged assailants and victims of sexual assault. (Author abstract)