Safe Access Evolution; empowering people to open doors within their recovery journey – Anti-Ligature Shop Ltd

Nominee Information

Safe Access Evolution (SAE) was first launched as a concept at DIMH in 2022 as an innovative alternative to access control systems provided by other manufacturers.

This system uses tried and tested technology from a leading manufacturer of electronic cylinders combined with a ligature resistant rose developed by the experts at Anti Ligature Shop Ltd (ALS).

Access security is one of the biggest operational challenges facing Mental Health Care especially so within patient bedrooms. It is difficult to imagine living in a hospital environment with complete strangers whilst experiencing thoughts feelings and behaviours that are outside of your control and cause fear distress and anxiety. However, this is the reality for many people admitted to hospital.

The ability for patients to feel physically and emotionally safe within their own bedroom space is greatly enhanced through Safe Access Evolution access control system which enables a keyless access through a programmed wristband.

This system should win because:

SAE can be fitted onto new doors or it can be retrofitted onto an existing door utilising the existing mechanical lockset in place. This maintains the fire integrity of the door as no additional fixings are required. Access control systems available from competitors are often only available on new door-sets and could not retrofitted without extensive bespoke joinery. The cost of the system is relatively low compared to other access control systems and it can be fitted quickly with minimal disruption. The system has been fitted at several NHS hospitals for over 6 months without any failures or maintenance issues. During installation it is usual to install a completely functioning access control system from 15 minutes (i.e. upscaling the existing mechanical lockset) to one hour (fitting a new mechanical lockset in conjunction with the system ). No other system can be fitted correctly with complete set up from the box this quickly by one engineer. The system is pre- programmed with full functionality for immediate patient and staff use. All this convenience does not reduce functionality with the ability to analyse the last 3000 door lock operations. Since being fitted within Antelope House the system has been flawless with no faults or return visits by the installers. Don’t just take our word for it this is what the customer said:

“Patients are comfortable with the system and have commented that they felt greater comfort knowing that other patients could not enter their room.”

“Straight forward system adaptable to existing locking mechanisms with minor changes. Unobtrusive in appearance and easily overridden. Safe access to individual patient rooms providing security , privacy and comfort.”

“Great value for money in cost comparison with other systems available. Utilises MIFARE DESFire software with Simons Voss technology.”

(Southern Health)

SAE has been made available for free trials for major mental health care providers. The product has also been put forward to be tested by the British Research Establishment (BRE) under the Informed Choices testing guidance for products installed within mental health facilities.