Palco UK Understanding the Importance of Anti-Ligature Access Panels
Introduction
In the world of safety and security, one term that is often heard but not well understood is ‘anti-ligature’. The term ‘ligature’ refers to something that is used for binding or tying. Therefore, an anti-ligature feature or product is designed to prevent a person from causing harm to themselves or others.
Although there is no official assessment for anti ligature panels, The Care Quality Commission (2015) produced guide for inspection teams that set out how they should gather evidence and report their findings when assessing ligature risks. They highlight that a risk posed by a ligature point is greater if:
1. It is in a private room that service users spend time in without direct supervision from staff.
2. It is in an area/ward used by high-risk patients.
3. The ward is designed without considering the ligature risks.
Many NHS trusts suggest a bi-annual risk assessment of ligature points within mental health settings to identify:
Structures or fittings which could be used as ligature points
Obstructions to observing high-risk patients
Identifying potential ligatures
Identifying challenges associated with self harm in a high risk environment.
In this blog post, we will focus specifically on anti-ligature panels and their importance in various settings.
What is an Anti-Ligature Panel?
An anti-ligature panel is a panel that has been specially designed to eliminate any points where ligatures such as; a cord, rope, or bedsheet, could be attached for self-harm purposes. These panels are typically used in mental health facilities, prisons, and other institutions where there’s a high risk of self-harm.
The design features of an anti-ligature panel include smooth surfaces with no protruding elements such as handles or hinges. Instead, these panels are fitted with Suited Castellated Tamper Proof Key Locks (SL) or Key Retaining Lock (KRL), allowing no opportunity for a ligature point. These panels are also designed with no holes or openings in any part of the panel. The goal is to create a safe environment for vulnerable individuals while also ensuring the security and functionality of the facility.
Importance of Anti-Ligature Panels
Anti-Ligature Panels in Mental Health Facilities
Mental health facilities are one of the most common places where you will find anti-ligature panels. These facilities house individuals who may be at risk of self-harm due to various mental health conditions. The design of these doors helps ensure that patients cannot use them as tools for self-harm.
Anti-Ligature Panels in Prisons
Prisons are another setting where anti-ligature panels are essential. In these environments, the risk of self-harm or suicide is high. Therefore, the use of anti-ligature doors can significantly reduce these risks.
Other Applications of Anti-Ligature Panels
While mental health facilities and prisons are the most common settings for anti-ligature panels, they can also be used in other environments where there’s a risk of self-harm. These include hospitals, schools, and even some private residences.
For example, in hospitals, anti-ligature panels can be used in patient rooms to prevent self-harm. In schools, these panels can be installed in bathrooms or other secluded areas where students might be at risk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, anti-ligature panels play a crucial role in ensuring safety and security in various settings. They are specifically designed to prevent vulnerable individuals from causing harm to themselves while also contributing to overall facility security.
While the initial cost of installing anti-ligature panels may be higher than standard doors, the benefits they provide in terms of safety and peace of mind are invaluable. Therefore, if you’re responsible for a facility where there’s a risk of self-harm, investing in anti-ligature panels is a decision worth considering.
Remember that while anti-ligature access panels are an essential component in creating a safer environment; they should not replace proper supervision and care for individuals at risk. These measures should always go hand-in-hand with physical safety features like anti-ligature panels.
With an understanding of what an anti-ligature access panel is and its importance across various settings, we hope this information will guide you towards making informed decisions about safety measures within your own facilities or homes.