Window-blind makers ask Health Canada for rules delay as COVID snarls supply chains

OTTAWA — An association of window-blind makers is warning of a steep financial hit to companies, and potentially the loss of thousands of jobs, in a few weeks unless Health Canada delays enacting a new set of safety rules.

Ralph Vasami, executive director of the Window Covering Manufacturers Association, says his members want to see their products made safer, but are facing a new set of hurdles to meet the upcoming requirements.

He says supply-chain disruptions have meant that manufacturers aren't able to get parts or materials to have finished products ready for May 1 when the new regulations take effect.

Vasami also says that major retailers are similarly unable to source new products on time to replace stock that will no longer be permissible to be sold in a few weeks.

What the rules would do is change how blinds are tested as part of a years-long effort by federal regulators to prevent children from strangling themselves on cords.

Health Canada says the industry has had three years to prepare for the coming regulatory change, far more than the usual six-month time frame for new rules to take effect.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 15, 2022.

The Canadian Press