In 2014 new safety requirements aiming to address child safety risks posed by blinds and curtains were introduced by the British Standards Institution. The requirements mean that any blind which is installed with cords and chains has to have breakaway connectors and cord and chain safety retainers. The cords and chains must also be maintained at a minimum 1.5 metres from floor level.

All new blinds or curtain tracks which are fitted by a professional must now pass the new standard, meeting the necessary safety requirements and test methods. If an accident involving a non-compliant blind or curtain track takes place in a rental property, the landlord could face prosecution from trading standards.

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