Cord & Chain Tension Devices For Child Safety

Blinds and shades with internal electric motors eliminate the hazards of cord and chain controls. Motors can be powered by battery packs (rechargeable or replaceable batteries), DC low voltage power, or AC 120V power. Automated shades can also be set to timers and schedules which assist with direct sunlight for added comfort, privacy, and energy savings.

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In Canada, the safety standards for blinds and window coverings primarily focus on child safety, especially concerning the risks associated with corded window coverings. These regulations are overseen by Health Canada and fall under the **Corded Window Covering Products Regulations** under the **Canada Consumer Product Safety Act**.

Here are the key aspects of the regulations for blinds and window coverings in Canada:

### 1. **Corded Window Covering Products Regulations (CWCPR)**
  - **Cord Length and Accessibility**: The regulations aim to reduce the risk of strangulation by limiting the length and accessibility of cords on window coverings.
  - **Tension Device Requirements**: For any accessible cords, tension devices are required to keep the cord taut and prevent it from forming loops that could pose a hazard to children.
  - **Hazardous Loop Requirements**: Manufacturers must ensure that any hazardous loops formed by accessible cords are not longer than a specific length, which is currently set to prevent loops larger than 22 cm in perimeter.
  - **Labeling and Warnings**: Products must include visible, permanent warnings about the hazards of corded blinds. The warnings must be clear and bilingual (English and French).
  - **Testing Standards**: Manufacturers need to conduct rigorous testing on products to ensure compliance with safety standards related to tension, cord durability, and the prevention of loop formation.

### 2. **Health Canada's Guidance for Manufacturers and Importers**
  - **Prohibition on Hazardous Products**: Any corded window coverings that do not meet the CWCPR are considered prohibited products and cannot be sold in Canada.
  - **Compliance Requirements**: All companies that manufacture or import window coverings into Canada must ensure compliance with the CWCPR by testing their products and maintaining records of compliance.

### 3. **Voluntary Standards**
  - Canada follows the standards developed by the **CSA Group** (Canadian Standards Association) for window coverings. While some of these standards are voluntary, they serve as best practices in the industry, especially for products like cordless blinds or blinds with inaccessible cords.
  - These voluntary standards focus on reducing risks in products that go beyond corded coverings, addressing concerns about durability, materials, and proper installation guidelines.

### 4. **Retailer and Consumer Responsibilities**
  - Retailers are responsible for ensuring the products they sell comply with the regulations and for educating customers about potential hazards and proper installation.
  - Consumers are encouraged to install cordless blinds or coverings that comply with the latest safety standards, particularly in homes with young children or pets.

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For more specific technical details or updates, it's always a good idea to review the official CWCPR under the **Canada Consumer Product Safety Act** or consult Health Canada's website on window covering safety.