Child Safety Standard
ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022
Effective June 14, 2024 – page updated July 14, 2025
The updated child safety standard, ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2022, requires that stock window coverings must not have cords that could entangle children. When custom window coverings must have cords or chains for operation, the product will be furnished with a tensioned hold-down device that is permanently attached and partially disables the product if not installed correctly. This hold-down should be installed with tension on the cord or chain.
To comply with this standard, Draper began providing a tensioned hold down permanently attached to the chain. That tensioned hold down must be installed with tension on the chain for the roller shade to function properly.
Our engineers have developed a new device, designed, engineered, and manufactured by Draper, that is better! Beginning July 14, 2025, all Draper bead chain shades ship with this new and improved Draper-designed tensioned hold down.
The new Draper-designed tensioned hold down is even easier to install, and even sturdier!
Alternatives to bead chains
While all Draper window shades operated by bead chains will be compliant with the new safety
standard, window shade models without bead chains are inherently even safer. The window shade models
below are operated with no bead chains or exposed cords of any kind.
FlexStyle® Ascend
FlexStyle® Ascend is our decorative open roll window shade model utilizing
our Ascend operator that allows you to raise and lower the shade fabric with a simple
touch.
This model is Best for Kids™ certified!
Learn More
FlexShade® Ascend
FlexShade® Ascend window shades feature our standard FlexShade® hardware
options and utilize our Ascend operator, allowing simple operation with a simple touch
of the hand.
This model is Best for Kids™ certified!
Learn More
Battery Operated Shades
Battery operated window shades offer the simplest and most economical way to install
motorized window shades - no wiring required! They install as easily as clutch-operated
shades.
These include models that are Best for Kids™ certified!
Learn More
Motorized Window Shades
Motorized window shades are available in a wide array of motors and control options,
including Zigbee, integration into popular control systems, or simple wall switches and
remote controls.
These include models that are Best for Kids™ certified!
Learn More
Best for Kids™ certification
The Best for Kids™ certification program launched by the window covering industry assists in educating consumers about potential window-cord hazards facing young children and will aid consumers in making the right choice when selecting window coverings. In order to be eligible for this certification, manufacturers must meet the specified program criteria and submit their window covering products to a designated third party testing laboratory. Once products pass testing they may be labeled “Best for Kids.”
Products that qualify for “Best for Kids” either have no cords, no operating cords and inner cords that are not accessible, or if accessible inner cords are present in products with no operating cords, the accessible inner cords cannot create a hazardous loop.
Draper, Inc. is proud to offer several window shade models that are certified "Best for Kids," and more models will be undergoing the required testing and certification process soon. See the certified shade models linked above.
How can we help?
Please consult with your Draper sales team if you or your customers have questions about these new requirements. We're here for you!
Contact us today!