Blackfriars Hall Window Restrictors Policy (Student Accommodation)

Last reviewed:  January 2026

1.Introduction

• This policy outlines Blackfriars Hall’s approach to managing window restrictors as a way of preventing falls from height.
• It applies to all student accommodation areas owned or managed by the Hall.

2. Policy aims and objectives

The policy outlines:

• Our obligations to install window restrictors in our student accommodation.
• How we will inspect and maintain window restrictors.
• Residents’ responsibilities.

3. Legal requirements

• There is no legal requirement to fit window restrictors in homes. However,
• The Universities UK Accommodation Code of Practice states: “190.  All windows above ground-floor level must be of sound construction and fitted with stops to prevent over-opening. Members should carry out periodic inspections to check whether any window restrictors have been tampered with.”
• Building regulations require windows in new homes to be at least 800mm above floor level to prevent falls. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) considers windows with an opening lower than 1100mm above floor level to be an increased risk to children.

4. What we will do

• We will install window restrictors to all windows in our accommodation that are located on or above the first floor.
• We will repair or replace any defective window restrictor when reported. We will consider recharging the cost of repair/replacement where the restrictor has been deliberately damaged.
• Any staff member may request the installation of a window restrictor or sill guard where they feel it would improve safety.
• Where we fit window restrictors, we will make sure that residents are still able to open windows.
• We will seek to address any risks to our staff and residents, posed by windows in our communal areas on or above the first floor, as part of our regular inspections of our properties. This may involve the addition of a window restrictor or guarding, whatever is most effective in reducing the risk.
• Window restrictors will be inspected termly and at the point of vacating rooms. At these inspections, we will:
  • Inspect all window restrictors.
  • Repair any defective window restrictors.
  • Install window restrictors on or above the first floor, where they are missing.

5. Products to be used

Window restrictors should:

• Restrict the window opening to 100mm or less.
• Be suitably robust, withstanding forces applied by an individual determined to open the window further.
• Be sufficiently robust to withstand damage.

6. Residents’ responsibilities

Our accommodation residents are responsible for:

• Maintaining a safe environment within their home.
• Not removing or tampering with a window restrictor we install; doing so is a disciplinary offence under Blackfriars Hall regulations and its Accommodation Licence.
• Reporting defective window restrictors in their room or property promptly. This can be done by writing to the Bursary (bursary@bfriars.ox.ac.uk)

7.Review

We will review this policy to address legislative, regulatory, best practice or  operational issues.