Federal Register #CPSC-2026-0463

CPSC Proposed Rulemaking: Window Covering Cord Safety Amendments

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is proposing amendments to safety standards for window coverings to address child strangulation hazards. - Government Buyer: - Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) - OEMs and Industry Standards: - No specific OEMs named - Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) referenced - ANSI/WCMA-2022 voluntary standard incorporated - Products/Services Requested: - Window coverings (blinds, shades, roll-up style shades) with specific cord configurations - Prohibition of accessible free hanging operating cords longer than 8 inches on custom window coverings - Custom horizontal blinds with exposed continuous loop operating systems (with or without tension devices) - Custom window coverings (except horizontal blinds) with exposed continuous loops without tension devices - Custom window coverings with single retractable cord lift systems exceeding 36 inches stroke length or lacking required warning labels - Stock and custom roll-up style shades with cord loop lifts (prohibited) - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Focus on child safety by eliminating hazardous cord configurations - Incorporation of updated industry safety standards (ANSI/WCMA-2022) - Requirements for tension devices, warning labels, and operational safety features - Applies to manufacturers, importers, and retailers - High compliance rates noted in industry - No specific part numbers or quantities provided; rulemaking targets product categories and safety features.

Description

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) proposes to designate certain window coverings as a substantial product hazard to address strangulation risks associated with window covering cords. The proposed amendments regulate accessible free hanging operating cords longer than 8 inches on custom window coverings, exposed continuous loops with and without tension devices on custom horizontal blinds, and other custom window coverings. The rule also addresses the lack of warnings on exposed continuous loops and single retractable cords, stroke lengths longer than 36 inches on single retractable cord lift systems, and cord loop lift systems on stock or custom roll-up style shades. Written comments on the proposed rule must be received by November 23, 2026.

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