Answer Consumer Questions

(Reprinted from Window Covering Safety Council)

New York, NY, June 26, 1996-Reports now airing all over the country about traces of lead in some imported vinyl mini-blinds are leaving consumers with more questions than answers, say industry spokespeople. The following Q & A has been prepared for the press by the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC), an industry association. It addresses some of the most frequently asked consumer questions.

Q: Are vinyl mini-blinds being recalled?

A: No. The government has not asked for a recall because such a tiny segment of the consumer population is affected. No recall is planned, and mini-blinds in the stores are legally for sale, and absolutely fine for use in nearly all households.

Q: How can I tell if my own window blinds are affected?

A: WCSC says you can certainly throw away your blinds if you like, but it's unnecessary. Parents concerned that toddlers in the household might be touching or licking the blinds regularly, should take them down and wash them in a tub of warm water and some automatic dishwashing detergent at least once a year or more often if desired. A free booklet on proper cleaning of blinds is available from WCSC by calling toll-free 1-800-506-4636.

Q: Where does the lead in vinyl mini-blinds come from?

A: Lead in min-blinds is not associated with paint. Small amounts of lead are used in the manufacturing process to add rigidity and color retention. But there is also lead in all household dust. Any dust-gathering surface should be washed regularly as part of responsible housecleaning.

Q: Are vertical blinds affected?

A: No. Vertical blinds are manufactured in the United States using a tin-based process.

Q: Have there been any reported deaths from lead dust on mini-blinds?

A: There have been no reported cases of death associated with lead from mini-blinds, and only a handful of cases alleging elevated blood levels. However, death by accidental strangulation in window-covering cords remains a real threat. Parents should obtain free information and safety tassels from the WCSC by calling 1-800-506-4636.

Q: Can sickness result from lead dust on blinds being inhaled?

A: No. According to the CPSC's tests, lead dust must be ingested (taken by mouth) regularly over a period of weeks in order to cause elevated lead levels in children under the age of six.