Corded blind safety

Since 2009 there have been 6 deaths of young children in New Zealand due to cords in window coverings – 3 of which have occurred in the past 10 years.

Summary

Loose cords on window coverings, such as roller blinds, concertina blinds, Roman blinds and slatted blinds like Venetian blinds, are dangerous for young children, because they can get entangled and strangled by the operating cords or inner cords.

MBIE has taken a number of steps to address safety issues with these products, including engaging with retailers, manufacturers, suppliers and community organisations, as well as consumer promotions.

The Government is considering regulating corded window coverings under a product safety standard to address the risk that they pose to young children. Protecting young children is considered a high priority, as they are not able to take independent measures to protect themselves.

We know a public consultation is a vital step to make sure we capture all possible options to mitigate the risks.

Consultation

On 27 January 2023 the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) opened consultation on options to address safety risks presented by corded window coverings. MBIE is seeking feedback on a range of options to further address the safety risks corded window coverings pose to young children.

Consultation is scheduled to close on 5 March 2023, 5pm.

The discussion document consults on possible approaches to regulation, as well as other non-regulatory options that could support regulation. 

MBIE intends to use this consultation process, along with further research, to develop a better understanding of the nature and scale of the problem, the options, benefits, costs and other impacts of the options, and implementation.

This feedback will be used to inform MBIE’s policy development process and advice to Ministers on addressing risks from corded window coverings.

Have your say: Options to address safety risks of corded window coverings