Design Principles of Window blinds for Offices - #5 Compliance.

Compliance with current regulations and safety standards is an essential consideration when choosing suitable shading systems.

It should be noted that a large proportion of blind systems in the market place are designed for domestic residential end use and may not necessarily comply with the specific regulations applicable to commercial buildings.

DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS

Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, employers have the following obligation “Windows shall be fitted with a suitable system of adjustable covering to attenuate the daylight that falls on the workstation.”

Elevations which do not get direct sunlight e.g. north facing, will still require shading; as daylight reflected by clouds or other buildings will exceed acceptable glare thresholds.

CHILD SAFETY

Any areas of a building where children aged under 42 months are likely to be present must have child safety devices fitted to the blinds in compliance with BS EN 13120 +A1 2014.

Office buildings which do not have public access are generally regarded as outside the scope of this legislation however this must be subject to a specific risk assessment by the user of each space.

If child safety is required, then our preference is for breakaway chain devices.

For the fully illustrated 2019 design guide covering all 8 principles request your copy at [email protected]