COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE 1

Monday, May 21, 2007

MOTION 6

MOTION: Councillor C. Jones

"That this committee calls on the Manager to ensure that all windows in Council rented properties are fitted with child-locks where necessary"

REPORT

Housing Maintenance Section ( housing relets ) , Housing Construction Section ( new build and acquisations ) Projects Section ( refurbishment programme and  window replacement programme ) are all involved in the provision and fitting of modern double - glazed aluninium windows in our housing stock.

These windows have an integrated locking system that enables windows to be securely fastened ( without locking ) and also locked with separate key.

This allows tenants to keep windows closed and secure and permits rapid egress ( without having to locate keys ) in the event of an emergency situation that requires evacuation of the premises.

In older window stock ( which will be replaced over the next 3 to 4 years under the various programmes outlined above ) Housing Department do not install or provide locks that require a separate key to secure  and lock the windows. This is for health and safety reasons as difficulties could arise in locating window keys in an emergency situation.

This position is dictated by Fire Safety Regulations  ( March 2006 )  Section 1.5.6 which deals with the issue of locks on windows.

The relevant section states as follows :-

' Lockable handles or restrictions which can only be released by removable keys or other tools  should not be fitted to window opening sections '

We will however consider on a case by case basis any genuine applications for window locks to be installed and will treat such applications sympathecially in so far as we can while of course having due regard for the regulations.