Ligature Risk Assessments: Patient Safety During Suicide Prevention Month

September is Joint Commission Suicide Prevention Month—a timely reminder of the critical responsibility healthcare facilities have in protecting their most vulnerable patients. For behavioral health centers, psychiatric hospitals, and at-risk care environments, this means taking proactive steps to identify and eliminate ligature and self-harm hazards.

One of the most effective ways to meet this responsibility is through a Ligature Risk Assessment Survey.

What Is a Ligature Risk Assessment?

A ligature risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of patient-accessible areas to identify objects, features, or environmental designs that could be used for self-harm.

• Door hardware, hinges, and locks
• Plumbing fixtures and grab bars
• Windows, cords, and blinds
• Furniture and fittings
• Architectural or environmental design features

By conducting an on-site survey, healthcare facilities can uncover hazards they may have overlooked—and create a clear plan for mitigation.

Why It Matters Now

The Joint Commission, CMS, and state agencies have set strict expectations around ligature risk mitigation. Facilities that don’t act face not only compliance challenges, but also increased patient safety risks.

Suicide remains a leading sentinel event reported in healthcare settings. That’s why Suicide Prevention Month is the perfect time for organizations to recommit to proactive safety measures.

How LSS Life Safety Services Helps

At LSS Life Safety Services, we specialize in Ligature Risk Assessment Surveys that give healthcare leaders clarity and confidence.

Our surveys include:

• Comprehensive on-site evaluations of patient-accessible areas
• Photo-documented findings that make hazards clear and actionable
• Itemized risk lists with severity rankings
• References to Joint Commission, CMS, NFPA, and state requirements
• A practical Mitigation Roadmap for addressing issues quickly and effectively

Unlike generic reports, our photo-supported documentation helps facility leaders communicate internally, prioritize corrective actions, and track progress toward safer patient environments.

The Benefits of Acting Proactively

Investing in a ligature risk assessment not only supports compliance—it demonstrates your facility’s commitment to patient well-being. Benefits include:

• Improved patient safety in behavioral health and at-risk environments
• Reduced risk of sentinel events and liability exposure
• Stronger compliance readiness during surveys and inspections
• Peace of mind knowing your environment of care is safer for patients and staff

Take Action During Suicide Prevention Month

This September, take the opportunity to put patient safety first. By scheduling a Ligature Risk Assessment Survey with LSS Life Safety Services, you’ll equip your team with the insights and tools needed to protect patients, reduce risk, and stay compliant with regulatory standards.

📞 Contact us today at 888-675-4519
🌐 Learn more: https://www.lifesafetyservices.com/ligature-risk-assessments/

Closing Thought

Suicide Prevention Month is more than an awareness campaign—it’s a call to action. Through proactive ligature risk assessments, healthcare facilities can take meaningful steps toward creating safer environments for the patients who need it most.