Kings Lynn showroom: 01553 819938
Newmarket showroom: 01638 668447
Kings Lynn showroom: 01553 819938
Newmarket showroom: 01638 668447
Understanding window blind safety
Ensuring Child Safety: A Guide to Sunrise Blinds
At Sunrise Blinds, we understand the importance of creating a safe environment for every member of your family, especially the little ones. Window blinds, while enhancing the aesthetics of your home, can pose a potential hazard to young children if not properly designed and installed. We take pride in offering blinds that prioritise child safety, in compliance with the standards set by the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA).
Child Safety Standards in Blinds
Since February 2014, all blinds sold in the UK must adhere to child safety standards. This means that blinds should not contain hazardous loops formed by cords or chains. If cords or chains are present, they must be equipped with safety devices to prevent any potential risks to young children and babies.
Safe by Design
We offer a variety of inherently safe options across different blind styles:
1. Motorisation
All our blind styles, including Roller, Roman, Venetian, Vertical, or Pleated Blinds, can be operated by motors. These motors can function via mains voltage, low voltage, battery, or rechargeable power sources, providing a range of operating modes from handsets to sensors or smart devices.
2. Wand Operation
For vertical blinds, operating cords and chains are replaced by a wand fitted to the leading louvre. The wand allows you to move the louvres to cover or uncover the window, and twisting the wand adjusts them for privacy and light control.
3. Gear/Crank Operation
Commonly used in roller blinds, this operation involves replacing the operating cord or chain with a winding handle. The handle, situated on one side of the blind, raises and lowers it. This option is popular for schools, and the operating handle can be made detachable to prevent unauthorised use.
4. Constant Tension Operation
Blinds with constant tension operation can be gently pushed or pulled into position. Springs keep the blind in place, allowing it to work in all positions without the risk of loose cords. For large and heavy blinds, a counter-balancing spring supports the weight, ensuring effortless operation.
To better illustrate these options, the BBSA (British Blind and Shutter Association) has created a handy video that showcases the various child-safe blind solutions.
Supplementary Safety Devices
If you opt for a blind option that isn't inherently safe, rest assured that it will come with supplementary safety devices. These may include breakaways that part the cord or chain under a light load or tension devices that keep the cords or chains taut. Cleats are used on cord-operated products like Venetian blinds to store the cord securely after each use.
It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and ensure that all safety devices are properly installed.
Updating Old Blinds
If you have blinds purchased before February 2014, they may have cords or chains that could form hazardous loops.
At Sunrise Blinds, we are committed to providing stylish and safe window solutions for your home. Choose Sunrise Blinds for peace of mind, knowing that your window treatments prioritise the well-being of your loved ones.
Get a free quote today or call our friendly team who are happy to answer any questions you may have.
🌐 www.sunriseblinds.co.uk
☎️ 01638 668447
☎️ 01553 819938
Come and visit our showrooms
Our highly trained staff are on hand to answer any questions you have. If you would like to see our products on display we have showrooms, in Newmarket & King's Lynn, available for you to come in and browse the various products we supply along with all the fabric books, swatches, waterfalls & samples available.
Our Showroom Locations
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Contact Us:
Newmarket showroom: 01638 668447
Kings Lynn showroom: 01553 819938
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