Understanding the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Window Covering Safety Standard

Understanding the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Window Covering Safety Standard

Written By Armi Avila

In the realm of home safety, window coverings might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, they play a crucial role, particularly when it comes to the safety of young children. Cords are also inherently attractive to curious children. This is where the recently implemented ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 standard comes in.

The ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Window Covering Safety Standard, developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA), addresses these concerns by setting stringent guidelines to reduce hazards associated with window coverings.

The Importance of Window Covering Safety

Window coverings, such as blinds, shades, and draperies, can pose significant risks to young children, especially those under six years old. The primary hazard stems from the cords used in many traditional window coverings. These cords can lead to entanglement and strangulation, resulting in severe injuries or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), "window covering cords are one of the top 5 hidden hazards" in American homes. CPSC further concludes that "cordless window coverings are the only option to eliminate the strangulation hazard." This highlights the importance of the new safety standard and continuing efforts to raise awareness about this hidden hazard.

What is the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Standard?

The ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 standard is a comprehensive set of safety requirements designed to address and mitigate the risks associated with window covering products. This standard is the latest update, building upon previous versions to incorporate new research, technological advancements, and feedback from industry stakeholders. It is a game-changer for window covering safety and focuses on eliminating the hazard posed by exposed cords in window coverings, which can be a strangulation risk for young children.

Why is this standard important?

According to the WCMA, strangulation from window covering cords is a leading cause of accidental deaths among young children. This new standard is a critical step towards preventing these tragedies and ensuring the safety of children in our homes.

Key Elements of the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Standard

  1. Cordless Designs:

    The standard emphasizes the use of cordless window coverings or those with inaccessible cords. Cordless designs eliminate the risk of cord entanglement, making homes safer for children.

  2. Safe By Design:

    Products must be inherently safe, meaning they do not pose a risk of strangulation. This includes the use of features such as tension devices and cord shrouds that keep cords out of reach.

  3. Warning Labels and Instructions:

    Clear and prominent warning labels are required on products, packaging, and installation instructions. These labels must inform consumers about potential risks and proper usage to ensure safety.

  4. Testing and Certification:

    Manufacturers must adhere to rigorous testing protocols to ensure their products comply with safety standards. Independent third-party certification is required to verify compliance, adding an extra layer of assurance for consumers.

  5. Custom Products:

    Special attention is given to custom-made window coverings, which must also meet the same stringent safety criteria as off-the-shelf products. This ensures that even personalized solutions do not compromise on safety.

Impact on Manufacturers

For manufacturers, the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 standard represents both a challenge and an opportunity. While it requires investment in safer designs and rigorous testing, it also opens up a market for safer, innovative products. Consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of safety in home products, and compliance with this standard can be a significant selling point.

As of June 1, 2024, stock window coverings sold in the United States must be cordless or have inaccessible cords, ushering a new era of window covering safety and making regular corded blinds a thing of the past. This applies to a wide range of products, including cellular shades, horizontal blinds (wood blinds, faux wood blinds, metal blinds), roller shades, roman shades, woven shades, sheer shades, panel tracks, and vertical blinds.

For custom window coverings where continuous cord loops are still needed for operation, the standard mandates that they come with permanently attached enhanced tension devices. These devices help to immobilize the cords when not in use, significantly reducing the strangulation risk.

What does this mean for consumers?

For consumers, this standard offers peace of mind. Knowing that products bearing the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 certification have undergone thorough testing and meet stringent safety requirements provides reassurance that their homes are safer for children.

What can you do?

  • If you're purchasing new window coverings, look for cordless options that comply with the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 standard.
  • For existing corded window coverings, check if they have built-in safety features like breakaway tassels or inner cord designs.
  • Consider retrofitting older window coverings with child safety devices like cord cleats. The Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) provides consumers with free window covering cord retrofit kits via an online order form, emailing info@windowcoverings.org, or calling their toll-free number at 1-800-506-4636.
  • Move furniture, especially cribs and changing tables, away from windows and window coverings, preferably to a different wall.
  • Consider replacing your existing corded blinds and shades with cordless or motorized window coverings.

By following these steps and staying informed about window covering safety, we can create a safer environment for our children and enjoy the benefits of window coverings with peace of mind.

Conclusion

In a world where safety standards are continually evolving, the ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 standard stands as a testament to the importance of proactive measures in protecting our loved ones from preventable hazards. The ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022 Window Covering Safety Standard is a crucial development in the quest to make homes safer for children. By prioritizing cordless designs, clear warnings, and rigorous testing, this standard helps reduce the risks associated with window coverings.

The brands we carry have discontinued manufacturing window treatments with pull cords, cord locks, and cord tilts, based on the effective date of June 1st, 2024, and have been working towards that direction for quite some time. As consumers, it’s essential to be aware of these standards and choose products that comply with them, ensuring that our living spaces are not only stylish and functional but also safe for all members of the family.

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