Ligature training is important for anyone in the health and care sector who may have regular interactions with individuals for whom ligatures present a particular risk. It ensures the protection of the vulnerable and allows staff to be more confident in their work.
What is a ligature?
A ligature is defined as any item that can be used as a tight binding, particularly for use around the neck. This means they can be dangerous if their risk is not properly assessed and managed, which can be done through ligature training.
Aspects of ligature training
The first thing you will learn is how to identify potential ligature points and develop an understanding of the wide range of materials that may be utilised to create a ligature. You will also need to be able to recognise the physical symptoms associated with a ligature injury. These symptoms need to be properly observed and recorded according to law and policy to ensure accurate reports, which in turn can be used to improve future responses and prevent further incidents.
When you attend ligature training, you will learn how to conduct thorough risk assessments in any environment so you can identify any possible ligature risk You will then need to create mitigation strategies to minimise any potential harm.
In cases where someone does have an incident with a ligature, you will need to know how to remove the ligature safely and return the person from suspension, then apply appropriate first aid and support them until medical professionals arrive. This may also involve coordination with coworkers or other people in the area.
Who needs ligature training?
Mental health training courses such as those available at www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses can help people working with the mentally ill to learn to recognise certain mental health conditions and support people who have been diagnosed. This may include ligature training, which may be appropriate for some mental health professionals, along with healthcare workers, social workers, caregivers, family members, teachers and law enforcement professionals.
Ensuring that all individuals who may benefit from ligature training have access to an appropriate course protects everyone’s safety and wellbeing.