The term “anti-ligature” refers to a design approach that minimizes the risk of self-harm and suicide, especially in environments where people may be vulnerable. The goal is to reduce the chance for individuals to create secure attachment points for ligatures (anything that can be used for strangulation or hanging).
Sadly, suicide using ligatures is all too common in healthcare and correctional facilities. In fact, around 70% of suicides in patient areas involve a ligature point.
It’s important to understand the nuances of “anti-ligature” versus “ligature-resistant” designs. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they don’t always mean the same thing.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of anti-ligature design, its applications, and important factors to consider when implementing it.
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