In high-risk environments such as mental health facilities, hospitals, and custodial institutions, ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants is paramount.

One of the most critical safety features in these settings is anti-ligature door handles. Designed to prevent self-harm and suicide attempts, anti-ligature door hardware has become an essential component of security strategies in healthcare and public buildings.

What is Anti-Ligature?

The term anti-ligature refers to designs that eliminate points where a cord, rope, or other material can be tied to create a ligature. These safety measures are essential in environments where individuals may be at risk of self-harm.

Why is Anti-Ligature Door Hardware Important?

• Prevents self-harm and suicide attempts – reducing ligature points in high-risk areas.
• Enhances security in mental health and care facilities – providing a safer environment for patients and staff.
• Meets health and safety regulations – ensuring compliance with NHS and UK safety standards.

Why Anti-Ligature Door Handles Are Essential for Safety

1. Protecting Vulnerable Individuals

Self-harm prevention is a key concern in mental health hospitals, psychiatric units, and detention centres. Anti-ligature door handles eliminate potential ligature points, significantly reducing the risk of harm.

2. Ensuring Compliance with Safety Standards

UK healthcare guidelines, including NHS safety policies, mandate the use of anti-ligature door hardware in high-risk areas. Choosing compliant anti-ligature handles ensures your facility meets legal and safety requirements.

3. Enhancing Security in Public Buildings

Beyond healthcare, anti-ligature door knobs and handles are beneficial in prisons, schools, and rehabilitation centres, where security and injury prevention are top priorities.

Types of Anti-Ligature Door Handles

Different settings require different anti-ligature solutions. Let’s explore the most commonly used types:

1. Anti-Ligature Door Handles

• Specially designed lever handles with rounded edges.
• Reduces the risk of ligature attachment.
• Ideal for hospital wards and secure units.

2. Anti-Ligature Door Knobs

• Completely smooth, rounded design.
• Harder to grip, making self-harm attempts less likely.
• Common in mental health facilities.

3. Anti-Ligature Handles

• Includes pull handles and push plates.
• Designed to be flush with the door to remove ligature points.
• Used in hospitals, prisons, and detention centres.

Key Features of High-Quality Anti-Ligature Door Hardware

When selecting anti-ligature door handles, consider these key features:

• Smooth, rounded edges – Prevents attachment of ligatures.
• Durable materials – Stainless steel and brass ensure long-lasting performance.
• Tamper-resistant design – Reduces risk of damage or removal.
• Compliance with BS and NHS standards – Ensures high safety levels.

Choosing the Right Anti-Ligature Door Handle for Your Needs

Factors to Consider:

• Type of facility – Hospitals, prisons, and schools have different needs.
• Material and durability – Stainless steel and brass are recommended for longevity.
• Safety compliance – Ensure handles meet NHS and BS safety standards.

Custom options, such as different finishes and grip styles, can further enhance safety while maintaining aesthetics.

Dortrend’s Commitment to Safety and Innovation

At Dortrend, we are leaders in anti-ligature door hardware, manufacturing high-quality products designed to prevent self-harm and enhance security.

Our UK-made anti-ligature handles are crafted with precision to meet the highest safety standards.

We provide:

• Custom anti-ligature solutions for different sectors.
• A wide range of door handles, knobs, and pull cords.
• Compliant products designed to meet NHS and mental health regulations.

Explore our anti-ligature door handle range today to enhance safety in your facility.

Get in Touch To Learn More

The need for anti-ligature door handles is more critical than ever in healthcare and secure environments. Investing in high-quality anti-ligature door hardware not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with UK safety regulations.

At Dortrend, we are dedicated to providing the best anti-ligature door handles to protect vulnerable individuals and maintain security in high-risk environments. Contact us today to find the ideal anti-ligature door solution for your needs.