New regulations, now in force, require all operating cords that form a loop to be made child safe.
New blinds will be safe by design: with an in built or separate safety system.
Any existing blinds must be modified to comply.
Blind cords should be secured at least 1.5 meters from the floor or the cord should be fixed in a taut position.
There are a number of safety devices available that are cheap and easy to fit:
- Something simple such as a cleat hook fixed to the wall can enable the cord to be secured out of reach.
- Chain break connector which breaks apart when pressure is applied but can be easily snapped back together.
- Cord/chain tidy – these can be fixed to the wall so that the cord is taut and high enough to be out of a child’s reach.
More information on blind cord safety and a useful leaflet can be found on the RoSPA website.
The British Blind & Shutter Association also has similar information. See BBSA.org.uk