Loose blinds, curtain cords and chains (particularly those with loops) have been the subject of extensive investigations, inquiries and consultations with industry associations, companies, people and health and advocacy groups in recent years, conducted by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (“ACCC“) due to the number of deaths it has caused amongst young children.

New Safety Requirements For Blinds, Curtain Cords & Chains

As a result, the Federal Minister for Small Business has introduced further safety requirements under the Competition and Consumer (Corded Internal Window Coverings) Safety Standard 2014 (“the new safety standards”) for the installation of corded internal window coverings in domestic dwellings (which does not include caravans, boats and mobile homes) in a way which will avoid the production of dangerous loops and lengths of cord which are a demonstrated threat to life in young children.

The new safety standards were introduced on 20 March 2014 but will not commence until 1 January 2015.

What Is The Purpose Of The New Laws?

The purpose of the new safety standards is to ensure that corded internal window coverings installed in domestic dwellings are installed in accordance with the safety instructions and any safety devices required under the safety standards found in the Trade Practices (Consumer Product Safety Standard – Corded Internal Window Coverings) Regulations 2010 (the “existing safety standards”).

What Are The New Requirements?

In particular the installation requirements under the new safety standards will require that:

A corded internal window covering must be installed:

• in such a way that a loose cord cannot form a loop 220 mm or longer at less than 1,600 mm above floor level, and
• using any components specified in the installation instructions as necessary to meet requirements for cord safety.

The person who installed the internal window covering must attach a label containing the name and contact details of the person or company that carried out the installation and to ensure that such label remains attached to the cord.

Both landlords and persons engaged in the supply or installation of corded internal window coverings should make sure they fully understand the requirements imposed by the new safety standards in order to ensure compliance.

How We Can Help

Ryan Murdoch O’Regan Lawyers can assist landlords with a range of property and business law matters, including contracts, leases and sales/acquisitions.

Our team takes the time to get to understand your business and obtain the best possible result for you.

Contact Us

Get the best representation. Contact Ryan Murdoch O’Regan Lawyers on 1800 999 529, email mail@rmold.newwebsite.live, or submit an enquiry below.

We are available to meet with you at any of our local offices (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Beenleigh, Cleveland and Jimboomba) or by telephone or video-conference.

This article is for your information and interest only. It is not intended to be comprehensive, and it does not constitute and must not be relied on as legal advice. You must seek specific advice tailored to your circumstances.