Anti Ligature Clock for Mental Health Facilities

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Anti Ligature Clock for Behavioral Health and Psychiatric Units

In behavioral health and psychiatric facilities, timekeeping is more than a function—it’s a safety risk if not managed properly. An anti ligature clock provides an essential solution, ensuring patients cannot harm themselves using sharp edges, cords, or wall-mounted hardware. It combines institutional-grade durability with thoughtful engineering for mental health environments.

Why Facilities Need Anti Ligature Clocks

Standard wall clocks present several overlooked dangers in secure environments. Plastic covers can shatter. Clock hands can be bent or removed. Power cables can be misused. Even the clock housing itself can become a weapon or a point for concealment.

An anti-ligature safety clock is designed specifically to eliminate these hazards.

Key Patient Risks of Traditional Clocks

  • Self-harm using cords or clock hands

  • Tampering with internal mechanisms

  • Weaponization of plastic or metal components

  • Hiding contraband in recessed clock housings

Features of a Properly Engineered Anti Ligature Clock

tamper proof ligature resistant wall clock in behavioral unit

1. Flush-Mounted Housing

These clocks sit completely flush against the wall, preventing cords from being wrapped behind or around them.

2. Polycarbonate Clock Face Shield

Unlike glass or brittle acrylic, polycarbonate covers resist shattering and are securely sealed to prevent tampering.

3. Tamper-Proof Fasteners

Access panels use security screws that cannot be removed without specialty tools, limiting unauthorized access.

4. Battery or Hardwired Options

Facilities can choose between tamper-resistant battery compartments or concealed hardwiring behind the wall for added safety.

5. Silent Movement

Clocks are often equipped with silent or low-decibel mechanisms to avoid triggering anxiety in noise-sensitive patients.

Compliance with Healthcare Safety Standards

All anti ligature clocks installed in psychiatric or correctional facilities should comply with standards from:

  • The Joint Commission (JCAHO)

  • FGI Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities

  • Department of Mental Health (state-specific codes)

  • ADA clearance requirements for clock positioning

Choosing a compliant clock reduces liability and satisfies audit checks by regulatory inspectors.

Where to Mount Clocks in Secure Facilities

Correct Height

Typically, clocks are mounted no lower than 84 inches from the floor to prevent reach and tampering.

 Room Considerations

Anti-ligature clocks are ideal for:

  • Patient bedrooms

  • Seclusion rooms

  • Day areas and group therapy zones

  • Intake and admissions suites

Electrical & Power Placement

Avoid visible cords. If hardwired, run connections behind finished walls. If battery-powered, use security-sealed battery panels.

Sourcing the Right Anti Ligature Clock

Reliable vendors offer:

  • Lifetime or multi-year warranties

  • Metal or Lexan enclosures

  • Models with digital or analog readouts

  • Units integrated with nurse call or emergency systems

Look for clocks developed specifically for psychiatric and correctional environments, not just general commercial use.

Final Takeaway

An anti ligature clock may seem like a small addition—but it plays a major role in preventing incidents, increasing staff peace of mind, and creating a safe therapeutic space. Don’t overlook timekeeping hardware when designing or upgrading behavioral health units.