In mental health facilities, architects, specifiers, and ward managers are always looking for solutions to lower the rates of suicide and self-harm. Anti-ligature items have been developed as a result, to prevent someone from utilizing the hardware as a point of attachment for anything that could be used to harm them or others.
Several bodies are creating guidelines to advise estates and facilities managers on best practices regarding the control of ligature to reduce suicide figures in mental health settings.
That being said, anti-ligature remedy development is still in its relative infancy. This article is here to provide you with anti-ligature advice so that you can go into the design stage well-informed and prepared.
-
They are Stronger
Patients search beyond the obvious ligature points when they intend to self-harm. Furniture at mental health facilities is frequently vandalized. Service Users may use the broken furniture as a weapon or ligature point once it has been vandalized.
Manufacturers are urged to produce anti-ligature items that are more durable and sturdier than their normal counterparts since they understand that furniture in mental health institutions is susceptible to harm.
-
They Improve Room’s Aesthetics
It is crucial to create a serene environment in mental health settings where service users feel at ease and ease. The layout and appearance of a space can influence a patient’s quality of life when choosing products. Anti-ligature goods such as ligature resistant safety clock come in a variety of colors to match the décor of the room and can modernize any area.
Naturally, the primary objective of any anti-ligature product is to ensure the safety of its users. However, aesthetics shouldn’t be sacrificed for a product’s safety.
-
Anchor Points Below Head
Many people believe that ligature points above head height increase the danger of suicide. However, research has shown that ligature anchor points that are below the head or even waist height have been associated with a high number of suicides.
When people hear the word “hanging,” they frequently assume that the possible hazards are located in the ceiling, but this is undoubtedly untrue.
Even while anti-ligature items like TV cabinets, light switch covers, and radiators may be situated below head height, the radiator you select has as much significance as the curtain rail.
-
Saves Cost
Because vandalism occurs often, mental health facilities have to replace damaged goods with thousands of pounds worth of repairs every year. Think about how much longer a durable and damage-restrictive anti-ligature product will last you.
The money saved by not having to repair broken furniture constantly may be put toward making the facility better for service users, which would help them heal more quickly.
-
Improves Patient Well-Being
Experts have frequently heard from managers who lament the lack of independence that service users acquire while receiving care.
There are multiple causes for this. Ward supervisors are hesitant to let patients go alone because of the possibility of injury, suicide, and self-harm. Because anti-ligature solutions are made to lessen these hazards, they will give service users a measure of trust while also giving them the opportunity for greater freedom.
Products like External TRV Units and the Anti-Ligature TV Cabinet enable more low-risk people to operate and regulate equipment according to their comfort needs.
These are a few of the primary justifications for thinking about switching out some of your ordinary fixtures and furniture with anti-ligature items such as ligature resistant safety clock.
