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FAQ's

British Standards What standards are there for blinds

EU Standards

The few British Standards relating to blinds and shutters have now been virtually replaced by EU standards that have been developed over the last 15 years. Our trade association (BBSA) was involved from the outset and the UK was one of the lead nations in the process.

The objective was to produce standards that were realistically achievable and that would provide a measure of quality to the end user without imposing unnecessary cost and bureaucracy on manufacturers.

Many of the standards have only recently been finalised and their introduction and acceptance will take some time. All standards relating to blinds and shutters are self certifying, that is the manufacturer certifies that the product will meet the standard required. Most European manufactured product will reach the minimum performance levels. The purpose of the standards is not to involve manufacturers in extensive testing when results in use can confirm performance.

However, where there are Health and Safety issues there are some mandated requirements. These are issues such as wind loading on awnings and safety devices on motorised shutters. To claim a standard the manufacturer must be able to show that he has tested to the mandated requirements.

Standards include a requirement for installation instructions and for the standard to be valid the blind or shutter must be installed in accordance with those instructions.

So we suggest that if you are specifying or ordering product you would expect the manufacturer to be able to confirm the test level of any mandated requirements and you should specify that it should be installed in accordance with them. For other standards you may wish to expect the manufacturer to confirm that the product is capable of meeting any relevant standards.

There are also requirements for recommendations from product maintenance and most warranties will be conditional upon these requirements being adhered to.

Linked Information:

List of Relevant European Standards