Effect of a Barrier at Bloor Street Viaduct on Suicide Rates in Toronto: Natural Experiment

This study examined whether rates of suicide changed in Toronto after a barrier was erected at the Bloor Street Viaduct. Yearly rates of suicide by jumping remained unchanged in Toronto between the periods before & after the construction of the barrier. A mean of 9.3 suicides occurred annually before the barrier & none after the barrier. Yearly rates of suicide by jumping from other bridges & buildings were higher in the period after the barrier although only significant for other bridges. Findings suggest the Viaduct may not have been a uniquely attractive location for suicide & that barriers on bridges may not alter absolute rates of suicide by jumping when comparable bridges are nearby. (29 refs.) JA