Non-fatal Accidental Ligature Strangulation by Scarf Entanglement in a Pedestal Fan: A Rare Workplace Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.03.28Keywords:
Accidental, Ligature, Pedestal fan, Strangulation, SurvivalAbstract
Strangulation is predominantly homicidal, while accidental strangulation is an uncommon phenomenon. Cases of accidental strangulation caused by entanglement of the free ends of a scarf in moving machinery or a two-wheeler are reported in the literature, often referred to as ‘long scarf syndrome’. We report a rare case of workplace accidental strangulation involving a pedestal fan. The victim was a 23-year-old male who was wearing a scarf around his neck, which got entangled in an indigenously made pedestal fan at his workplace, causing brief ligature compression of the neck. He was rescued by his colleagues and brought to the emergency department. On examination, he was conscious and oriented, and a ligature mark was seen over the front of the neck above the thyroid prominence. An arterial blood gas analysis showed no evidence of respiratory compromise, and computed tomography of the neck revealed no structural damage. The patient was discharged after a period of observation of 12 hours and was advised to follow up. Accidental strangulations are predominantly fatal, and survival following them is rare. Non-fatal accidental strangulation by a scarf due to a pedestal fan in the workplace has not been reported previously in the literature. This case highlights the need for awareness regarding loose clothing near rotating machinery and emphasises the importance of protective machine design, workplace safety practices, and prompt rescue in preventing fatal outcomes.
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