Corded window coverings are making an exit from the window treatment industry after a new safety standard has been put into place by the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) that affects window coverings manufactured in the U.S. and Canada.
Safety standard, ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2018, which has taken effect on December 15, 2018, states that all stock products, sold in stores and online, must be cordless or have inaccessible cords. This is a result of The WCMA, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the window covering industry, and consumer groups working together to create a safer and more efficient solution for child safety.
Corded window treatments can pose as safety hazard to small children and are one of the “top five hidden hazards in American homes,” according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission which is why this new safety regulation a much-needed to combat the hazards cords can bring.
Here are a few IMPORTANT Takeaways from the new window covering safety standard:
⦁ Corded window treatments will soon be obsolete.
This new standard requires that all stock products, sold in stores and online must be cordless or have inaccessible cords. This means, within the next few months, you will no longer be able to find traditional corded blinds or shades at your favorite stores or online.
⦁ You can have corded solutions custom made if needed.
If you still prefer corded window treatments for your home or commercial space, you can contact a window treatment company where an expert can custom fabricate a design that meets your needs.
⦁ There will still be restrictions, even on your custom-made window treatments.
Although the new window covering safety standard allows you to have your corded window coverings custom made, safety is still a huge priority. Your custom solution will be limited to a maximum operating cord length of 40% of the blind or shaded height and you will need to utilize tilt wands as opposed to tilt cords.
If you have any questions about the new 2019 window covering safety standard or would like to schedule your FREE in-home or on-site consultation, contact us today!
