Anti-suicide fan rod vs clamp
There are two common types of anti-suicide device for ceiling fans: spring-loaded fan rods that replace the fan's downrod, and clamps like SafeClamp that retrofit onto the fan you already have. Here's how they differ.
If you or someone you know needs support right now, call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or KIRAN on 1800-599-0019. Both are free, confidential and open 24/7.
Anti-suicide fan rods
An anti-suicide fan rod, sometimes called a "smart fan rod", replaces the downrod, the pipe that hangs the fan from the ceiling hook. It is made in two parts joined by a spring. Under the fan's normal weight the rod stays rigid. Under a much larger load the spring extends and the fan lowers, so it can't bear that load.
Because the rod replaces part of the fan's mounting, each fan has to be taken down and re-hung with the new rod, and the rod has to match the fan and ceiling height.
Anti-suicide clamps (SafeClamp)
SafeClamp is a patented, spring-based clamp that retrofits onto an existing ceiling fan. The fan and its rod stay as they are. When it detects downward force beyond its threshold, in under a second it releases, cuts off the electricity to the fan and sounds a 120+ decibel alarm. An optional electronic notification system can alert a warden or security desk, and it can be integrated with a fire alarm system. The same design also protects against the fan dropping.
Side by side
| Anti-suicide fan rod | SafeClamp | |
|---|---|---|
| How it fits | Replaces the fan's downrod | Clamps onto the existing fan |
| Fan taken down to install | Yes, to swap the rod | No major changes to fan or ceiling |
| Price per fan | Around ₹400 | From ₹350 |
| Alarm | Not included on all rods | 120+ dB alarm, built in |
| Cuts electricity to the fan | Varies by model | Yes |
| Remote alert to staff | Varies by model | Optional, over Wi-Fi or cellular |
| Fire alarm integration | Varies by model | Available |
| Fan-drop protection | Varies by model | Yes |
Which should you choose?
Both approaches are built to stop a ceiling fan from being used as a means of harm. The right choice depends on your building:
- If you are fitting out many existing fans, such as a hostel, hotel or campus, a retrofit clamp avoids taking every fan down, and starting from ₹350 per fan, SafeClamp costs less than a typical ₹400 rod.
- If getting help to the room quickly matters, as it does wherever someone may be alone, look for a loud alarm and, ideally, alerts to staff.
- If you are installing new fans anyway, either approach can be planned in from the start.
Whatever you choose, a device works best as one part of a wider approach to suicide prevention. Read how anti-suicide fan devices help prevent suicide, or talk to us about your building.
Protect the fans in your building
SafeClamp retrofits onto existing ceiling fans. Talk to us about pricing, installation and bulk orders for hostels, hotels and institutions.