by Richard M. Ziernicki, Ph.D., P.E. (NAFE 308F)
Ben T. Railsback, P.E. (NAFE 713S)

 

Abstract

It has been recognized for many years that young children have been involved in incidents, including
strangulation, with the cords associated with window covering products such as window blinds or
shades.1, 2 The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified window coverings with
cords as one of the top five hidden hazards in the home. According to CPSC a child dies about once
a month and another child suffers a near strangulation.3 The CPSC currently recommends the use of
cordless products wherever children live or visit.
This paper will identify the hazards, or design features which create loops, associated with corded
window covering products based on incident reports and design analysis. The paper will further identify
the risk, or the probability and severity, associated with the hazard modes. Additionally the paper
will address historical and current engineering design efforts to reduce the injury potential for corded
window coverings.

Keywords

Window coverings, Blinds, Mini-Blinds, Venetian, Roman Shades

Published By

Journal of the National Academy of Forensic Engineers. (June 2013).