{"id":3101,"date":"2024-07-17T09:54:07","date_gmt":"2024-07-17T09:54:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bpfonline.co.uk\/blog\/?p=3101"},"modified":"2026-01-28T12:32:39","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T12:32:39","slug":"the-rules-around-window-restrictors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bpfonline.co.uk\/blog\/the-rules-around-window-restrictors\/","title":{"rendered":"The rules around window restrictors"},"content":{"rendered":"

What are window restrictors?<\/h3>\n

Window restrictors are typically used in households with young children or in healthcare settings. However, they can also be really useful in properties where windows are lower than waist height such as those often seen in flats or modern loft conversions.<\/p>\n

Window restrictors can be fitted retrospectively to a window to reduce the window opening. They are cost-effective, available in a UPVC finish to reduce the visual impact, and really easy to fit.<\/p>\n

Types of window restrictors<\/h3>\n

The most versatile type of window restrictor is made up of two units connected by a stainless steel cable. These individual units are then connected to the window frame mullion and the opening sash of the window respectively.<\/p>\n

Of course, it isn\u2019t practical for a window to be restricted permanently, so you can choose whether your window restrictor is locked with a key or with a combination code.<\/p>\n

The cable then plugs into the socket on the window fitting and can be secured with the lock.<\/p>\n

How to fit a window restrictor<\/h3>\n

Fitting a window restrictor is both quick and easy and, with the safety benefits it delivers, it makes complete sense to install on low windows and those windows in rooms inhabited by vulnerable individuals. You can choose from a stick-on window restrictor<\/a> where you literally peel a backing off some sticky tape on one side of the restrictor and position it on the correct part of the window or frame.<\/p>\n

Other window restrictors<\/a> are attached with screws. Screws can be easily screwed into UPVC windows and frames with an electric screwdriver, but be sure to measure exactly where you need to attach them first as, in UPVC, once a hole is made, there\u2019s no going back.<\/p>\n

When to use a window restrictor<\/h3>\n

The HSE<\/a> identifies three different types of risks around window safety:<\/p>\n