It is a tragic reality that hanging is a common cause of suicide in mental health as well as correctional facilities. It is, therefore, crucial to include precautions against ligature hazards in the design phase when building or renovating a space in a facility where vulnerable people are housed.
1. They Reduce Suicide & Self-Harm
In mental institutions, almost 75% of individuals who commit suicide end their lives by strangling or hanging. According to a nationwide study by the University of Manchester, preventative tactics in mental health services may be beneficial if more people were aware of the techniques these patients utilized.
2. Likelier to Be Stronger
Patients search beyond visible ligature points when they intend to self-harm. Vandalism frequently occurs to furniture in mental health facilities. Furniture that has been vandalized may be used as a weapon or ligature point by service users. Manufacturers are urged to produce anti-ligature items like a recessed tv enclosure that is sturdier and stronger than their standard counterparts since they understand that furnishings in mental health facilities are susceptible to harm.
3. They Enhance A Room’s Aesthetics
It is crucial to come up with a serene environment in mental health settings where patients feel relaxed and at ease. Anti-ligature products come in various hues to match the décor of the room and may transform any area.
4. Points of Anchor Below the Head
Many people believe that ligature points beyond head height increase the danger of suicide. Nonetheless, research has shown that ligature anchor points that are below the head or waist height have been associated with a high number of suicides. When most folks hear the word “hanging,” they frequently assume that the possible hazards are in the ceiling, but this is undoubtedly untrue. Picking the correct radiator is just as crucial as choosing the curtain rail because anti-ligature products like radiators, TV enclosures, & light switch coverings may all be below head height.
5. Long-Term Cost Savings
Since vandalism occurs often, mental health facilities have to replace damaged items using thousands of dollars each year. Consider how long a durable and damage-restrictive anti-ligature product like a recessed tv enclosure will last you. The money saved by not having to repair broken items constantly may be put toward making the facility better for those who use it, which would help them heal more quickly.
6. Anti-Ligature Products Aren’t Only Linked to Mental Health Settings
Although anti-ligature solutions have features that closely match the requirements of a mental health environment, different establishments require different products. Anti-ligature products are necessary for places like;
- SEN schools
- Hospitals
- Police departments
- Senior living facilities
This is because the people who need some amount of care are vulnerable. Ligature-resistant design is essential to maintaining people’s safety and well-being in mental health facilities, correctional institutions, etc. These design elements make the setting safer for staff members as well as institutionalized individuals by reducing the danger of suicide and self-harm.
A proactive way to address mental health issues and promote a more compassionate and secure environment for everyone is demonstrated by the implementation of ligature-resistant fixtures and furnishings throughout mental and penal institutions.
