Hi Invictus, I don't know where it states it either but at a place I worked previously we had the same procedure. After use it would be returned to the supplier for re-sharpening and sanitzation. Perhaps best contacting a supplier of ligature cutters, e.g. Barrington International, to see if they can point you in the right direction? Thanks, Martin

We (a mental health trust) do what Mcham2705 suggested and have them sharpened after every use (by Barrington). The NHS does not have and specific directive/standard practice to follow. But why would you not want them at their sharpest?? As you are aware, they can be used for cutting all different types of material e.g. rope/string, wire, clothing etc. If you rely on individual judgement to decide when to sharpen then the human behaviour element (due to laziness or risk perception) will mean there will be a high proportion out there will have been used many times and less effective.

wclarke1238, As expected, some of our patients are extremely ill. On a ward, you could go a month without someone using a ligature and to the other extreme 4 or 5 in a day. Not all are serious suicide attempts, some are self-harming behaviour. Regardless of intent, speed is the essence, seconds delay caused by a blunt ligature cutter, could make the difference between life and death or serious harm.