The Government will introduce mandatory safety standards for new corded blinds sold in New Zealand, following 8 child deaths from window covering cord entanglement since 2008.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Cameron Brewer announced the new requirements, which will bring New Zealand into line with internationally recognised safety standards already used in Australia, Canada, Europe and the United States. Three coroners recommended improvements to corded blind safety between 2021 and 2024.
Under the mandatory standards, new corded blinds will need to eliminate or minimise cord hazards using methods including shortened cords, improved warning labels, or safety devices allowing parents to secure loose cords away from children.
"Since 2008, eight young children have died in New Zealand after becoming entangled in the cords of window coverings," Brewer said. "It's a parent's worst nightmare, and behind every one of those numbers is a family that lost a child to something preventable."
The regulations will apply only to new products, not blinds already installed. A substantial number of corded blinds currently sold in New Zealand, especially ready-made products from major retailers, already meet a safety standard.