-
Safety First: Mounting TVs in Schools and Public Waiting Areas
In public environments like schools, community centres, and medical waiting rooms, a television is more than just a screen; it is a potential liability. Unlike a home environment, you cannot control who interacts with the equipment. A curious child climbing on a stand, a student bumping into a screen in a corridor, or a patient steadying themselves on a cabinet—these are all real-world scenarios that can lead to injury.
For facility managers and principals, ensuring that AV equipment is installed securely is a legal duty of care. A standard domestic installation is rarely sufficient. Commercial environments require commercial solutions: tamper-proof mounts, heavy-duty anchoring, and rigorous impact protection. Professional Ireland TV hanging services provide the certification and peace of mind that your screens are safe, secure, and compliant.
The Danger of the Freestanding Screen
The golden rule in public spaces is: nothing should be freestanding. A TV on a cart or a cabinet is inherently unstable. In a school, a trolley can be pushed over. In a waiting room, a cabinet can be tipped.
Wall mounting is the only safe option. It removes the centre of gravity issue entirely. By bolting the screen to the structural fabric of the building, you eliminate the risk of crushing injuries. It also clears the floor space, removing trip hazards caused by legs or wheels, and allowing for easier cleaning and circulation.
Tamper-Proof and Locking Mounts
In public areas, theft and tampering are genuine concerns. You don’t want someone walking off with the TV, or a student unplugging cables to charge their phone.
We use commercial mounting brackets that feature locking bars. These require a padlock or a specialist security key to remove the screen from the wall. We also use security screws that cannot be undone with a standard screwdriver. This prevents unauthorised removal and ensures the screen stays exactly where it should be.
Impact Protection and Enclosures
In high-traffic areas like school corridors or sports halls, screens are vulnerable to impact. A stray ball or a backpack can shatter the glass instantly.
For these environments, we recommend installing protective enclosures. These are metal or perspex cases that surround the TV. The front is made of polycarbonate which can withstand a significant blow without breaking. This protects the expensive asset inside and prevents glass shards from causing injury in the event of an accident. It is a vital upgrade for any busy public corridor.
Managing Cables and Power
Dangling cables are a strangulation risk and a trip hazard. In a public installation, zero cables should be accessible.
We chase cables into the wall or use heavy-duty, tamper-resistant trunking that cannot be peeled open. We install power sockets directly behind the screen, often using switched fused spurs that can be locked off. This prevents anyone from tampering with the power supply or plugging in unauthorised devices. It creates a “clean” installation that is safe for everyone from toddlers to the elderly.
Conclusion
Safety is not an area for compromise. When installing technology in public spaces, the installation must be robust, secure, and defensive. By using professional commercial mounting techniques, you protect your visitors, your students, and your organisation from harm and liability.
Call to Action
Responsible for a public building? Contact us for a safety audit and secure installation of your display screens.
Visit:
