3 steps to ensure existing blinds in publicly accessible areas comply with BS EN 13120

Blinds that are operated by cords or chains which could form a hazardous loop and place a child in danger. Therefore existing blinds that installed after February 2014 into areas where children under the age of 42 months may have access must now, by law be made safe by complying with BS EN 13120.

This post will cover three simple steps that will ensure you comply with BS EN 13120:

1. Examine all blinds in the publicly accessible areas particularly school and hospitals to identify those that need to be made safer
2. Reduce cord and chain lengths where possible so that there is a minimum distance of 1.5m between the bottom of the chain/cord loop and the floor. Fit an appropriate safety device to keep chain and cord lengths under permanent tension and loose cords out of reach on a device like a cleat.
3. Train all staff on how to operate blinds safely and periodically inspect the safety devices to ensure they are still secure and working correctly.

Roller Blinds: there is a selection of chain retainers available for roller blinds.

Vertical Blinds: a corded vertical blind has two looped cords one to daw the louvres across and the other to rotate the louvres. A cord retainer which can accommodate two cords is required.

Venetian Blind cords: cords for venetian blinds are typically not looped. A breakaway joiner on each cord which breaks under load is used.

Cord operated curtains: a wall mounted tensioner is the best option.

For further information on how to ensure your blinds comply with BSEN13120, contact us for an audit.

Click here for more information on the law relating to blinds installed in publicly accessible areas.