Approved Window Guards

Size and Load Requirements

• According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, approved window guards come in various sizes and are sold through different manufacturers. However, guidelines in New York City state that window guards should be at least 15 inches tall with bars spaced approximately 5 inches apart. The City of Newark guidelines state that approved window guards should prevent the passage of a 4-inch sphere between bars. Approval guidelines for window guards also specify load requirements. The City of Newark government specifies that window guards must support at least 150 pounds across its center to pass performance standards.

Benefits

• One of the main benefits of approved window guards is they can prevent serious injuries and death. Government agencies such as the New York City Department of Health and Hygiene estimate that a significant number of children fall out of windows each year. Approved window guards are one way to prevent accidental injuries and deaths, and keep small children safely inside homes. Window guards are also beneficial for one-family and two-family homes, even if they only have one or two floors. For residences without window guards, the NYC agency advises renters to request landlord permission to install guards to protect young children, the elderly and disabled residents living inside the home.

Considerations

• To ensure your window guards perform optimally, periodically check for loose bars. If the bars loosen when you push or pull them, replace the window guard immediately. Children, elderly persons or disabled residents may accidentally detach bars by leaning against or grasping the guard. Generally, approved window guards must be made of strong metal that is resistant to corrosion and requires minimal maintenance.

Installation

• The proper installation of approved window guards is essential for preventing accidental falls and injuries. When installing window guards, check that screws fit securely on either side of the window. Additionally, residents should use window guards with government-approved screws. Depending on your window’s style, your guard may require special hardware to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness. For example, New York City’s Health Department mandates that L-shaped stops be installed in double-hung windows. L-shaped stops are rigid, metal hardware fastened with screws along window tracks to limit how high windows can open. Residents installing window guards and stops in awning, casement and other types of windows must install special guards and hardware approved by the Health Department.