The aim of the study was to reduce the overall suicide rate by making motor vehicle exhaust gas suicide substantially more difficult to undertake and complete. Since the method is common and relatively lethal this has high potential to reduce total suicides. The study involved a literature review and obtaining of background information on suicide and methods of suicide, particularly exhaust gas suicide, data analysis, personal communication with technical experts, information on current or unpublished studies, an examination of a sample of Coroner's case files and an awareness of activities to reduce the method. In a sample of Coroner's records 36 percent of victims' vehicles had catalytic converters. Almost all used a hose or pipe leading into the interior of the vehicle with ventilation sealed. They were most frequently undertaken at home or at an open-air location away from home. While recognising that the causes of suicide are complex there are design changes which potentially make the method more difficult to affect. These are multi-gas (carbon dioxide, oxygen and possibly carbon dioxide) sensing devices installed in the vehicle cabin which emit a warning light followed by an alarm and then shut down the engine when the levels become life threatening, exhaust modifications which make it difficult to fit a hose or pipe and further improvements in engine design and catalytic conversion techniques. Recommendations are made for the introduction of mandatory regulations for new vehicles and amendments to current in-service vehicles. (A)
Abstract