In July there was another child fatality involving blind cords, bringing the number of child deaths in the UK and Eire in the last 18 months to an unprecedented five. This has attracted widespread media coverage and renewed calls for mandatory bans on blind cords.

We only have to look to America to realise the potential impact on retailers if we do not take action. On August 26th the Consumer Product Safety Commission ordered six retailers to recall a total of 5.5 million blinds which did not comply with their standards.

The BBSA’s make it safe campaign has been positively received by Government and the advice to comply with the child safety requirements of the relevant European standard (EN 13120) is considered to be proportionate and appropriate. But what does that mean to you and what do you need to do?

To help everyone in the supply chain to ensure adequate protection for consumers and, of course, the businesses involved, the BBSA will be inviting non-members to take part in their ‘make it safe’ campaign in return for a small annual fee.

By signing up to this industry-wide campaign you will have access to the steps you need to take to ensure you comply with the standard, use of the make it safe logo, subsidised brochures, posters, decals and other material to promote the responsible action you are taking, and ongoing updates and advice via a dedicated microsite.

The BBSA are holding regional roadshows where you can learn more about the ‘make it safe’ campaign, the types of products and devices available and to sign-up and start protecting you and your customers.

Speaking about the campaign BBSA President Dave Morgan explained: “As an industry we must ensure we act responsibly. The ‘make it safe’ campaign is a tailor-made solution for anyone involved in the trade to ensure they know what they need to do and to promote the responsible and positive approach they are taking regarding safety. I would urge everyone to sign-up to this important initiative.”

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