Window Covering Expert Discusses NEW ANSI Standard for Corded Window Covering Products

KANEVILLE, IL, January 06, 2011

On September 3, 2010, the 2nd Provisional American National Standard for Safety of Corded Window Covering Products was approved. The standard includes all window covering products (section 1.3). Though broad in scope, the standard's two most important sections are:
1)New Roman Shade performance and testing requirements as a result of incident reports that suggested that Roman shades needed to be addressed more specifically.
2) Revised requirements for cord tension devices on blinds and shades using continuous loop cords

Window Fashion expert Deb Barrett applauds the new standard. Barrett, founder of Window Dressings and noted window coverings consultant says that because the standard is a living document, the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) and the Window Covering Safety Council (WSCS) technical committee still needs to address new components, techniques and products as they hit the market claiming compliance. The industry is committed to bringing the new standard to ballot by October 2011 and is hustling to get up to speed- looking for clarification, resources, guidance and product innovation that will make that happen. "The standard is a very technical document that has caused confusion among window covering professionals selling, fabricating and installing the products. Along with the gray areas in the document causing confusion, many questions are still unanswered. More needs to be done to inform and offer assistance to industry pros so they can do the same for consumers, "says Barrett.

This new standard will create a major change in the way both major and independent manufacturers produce and sell window coverings. Barrett continues, "The industry has a hard enough time convincing consumers to treat their windows; now with the safety issue it had become even harder to convince consumers to put window fashions on their decorating radar screens."

For more information, expert quotes or tip sheets contact Deb Barrett or visit Barrett's online press kit ( windowfashionexpert dot com )for her tips for professionals selling window coverings and for consumers purchasing window coverings.

Deb Barrett had been actively involved in window coverings industry for over 25 years. As an award winning designer and founder of Window Dressings, Deb Barrett has built a reputation for cutting edge couture treatments and soft furnishings. In addition to Window Dressings, she is an accomplished speaker, editor and author. Nationally known, Deb regularly speaks at industry and association events on a variety of design, business and trend topics. Barrett also works with manufacturers and stakeholders in the window covering industry as a consultant and strategist. For more details, contact Deb at deb@debbarrett.com or Deb@windowfashionexpert.com.