New eu regulations for blind and shutter safety

A change in the law this February has seen a tightening of safety regulations for blinds and shutters in the European Union, following 27 fatalities since 1999 where babies and young children have become entangled with internal window blind cords and chains in the UK alone.

The EU issued three now regulations which now require all existing blinds to be made safe using a retrofit safety device, and all cords and chains to be fitted with a safety device at the point of manufacture.

In addition, the new regulations ban the use of cords and chains that “could create a hazardous loop” from being installed on premises “where children 0-42 months are likely to have access or be present.” Where cords and chains are installed, they must come with visible warnings. Office spaces being converted into residences are subject to these new regulations.

Designers will now have to comply with these new regulations, which took effect on the 28th February 2014, installing blinds which are “safe by design.”

The British Blind and Shutter Association’s website, Make it Safe, lays out these important new details, and includes guidance on installing EU-compliant blinds and shutters in both residential and commercial environments.