Best Practices for Behavioral Health Safety and Security

The safety and security of patients, staff, and visitors is a top priority for behavioral health professionals. Problematic behavior committed by patients with concealed contraband is a growing concern. Front-line staff needs procedures and technology to drive prevention and to detect concerning items that could harm others or be used for self-harm. Knives, razors, and weapons have the potential to be used with deadly force on self or others. Syringes that can spread infectious diseases. Cell phones can disrupt the therapy and recovery process. These are real everyday occurrences and threats.

This whitepaper presents some of the best practices for behavioral health safety and security.