Safety Regulations for Corded Internal Window Coverings and Window Furnishings such as Roller Blinds
Corded internal window coverings are window coverings that can be used inside a building and are either:
- window coverings, such as curtains or blinds with a cord or chain, or
- fittings used with a window covering, such as a traverse rod or track.
These include, but are not limited to:
- curtains
- blinds
- shades
- traverse rods
- tracks.
To avoid creating a possible strangulation hazard for children, the corded internal window furnishings must be installed in such a way that a loose cord cannot form a loop 220 mm or longer at a height of less than 1600 mm above floor level.
In respect to chain operated roller blinds, if the chain is at a height less than 1600 mm above the floor a tension device needs to be installed, to enclose the chain, or a cleat installed above 1600 mm.
In certain situations, it can be either impracticable to install these due to no fixing point, or not ascetically pleasing to the eye, though neither of these absolve the responsibility of ensuring they are installed to meet the requirements of the law.
However, with the TOSO Mytec chain operated roller blind, and its unique fast gearing, it is still easy for an average height person to operate a blind where the chain finishes 1600 mm above the floor, therefore not requiring a tension device or cleat, as with every 1 metre pull of the chain, the blind raises or lowers by approximately 1.9 metres when using the 46 mm top tube, as compared with around 1 metre with a standard blind.
This is a good solution for your window shades when it is impracticable or not desired to install a tension device or cleat on the wall in the office or home.
Product Safety Australia:
http://www.productsafety.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/981424