Looped blind cords can create a serious child-safety risk. Assess the actual installation, including furniture that makes a cord reachable.
Inspect the arrangement
- Check every blind, including older fittings and units installed by a previous owner.
- Identify dangling loops, damaged tension devices and accessible chains.
- Consider beds, cots and furniture near the window.
Choose a safe remedy
- Prefer a suitable safe design and competent installation.
- Use compatible safety devices correctly where appropriate, rather than an improvised knot or clip.
- Check that the blind still operates safely and does not interfere with an escape opening.
Maintain the result
- Give clear instructions and a fault-reporting route.
- Recheck damaged or removed safety devices during relevant inspections.
- Apply the same assessment when replacing a blind or changing the room's use.
Example: a cot makes a cord reachable
A fictional cord appears high enough from the floor but hangs beside a cot. Assess reach from the furniture and remove the hazard through a suitable installation. Floor height alone is not a sufficient safety check.
What to do
- Inspect blinds and identify accessible loops or missing safety devices.
- Arrange a suitable safe installation or replacement.
- Check the result and explain relevant use instructions.
Evidence to keep
- Blind locations, findings and safe photographs.
- Product information, installation and completion record.
Sources and guidance
- Child safety: blind cordsOffice for Product Safety and Standards · checked 20 October 2026
- Fitness of homes for human habitation: landlord guidanceWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act: landlord guideUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Repairing Standard: statutory guidanceScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026