Window opening control devices (WOCD) provide fall protection and flexibility for homeowners. The latest addition to Andersen’s line of these devices brings a casement solution like no other.
Window opening control devices for Andersen® A-Series and 400 Series casement windows are available in white and stone color.
Casement Solutions: Casement windows, by design, provide some challenges when trying to limit the window opening to four inches; the most common for areas of the country that have adopted requirements related to minimum sill height for windows. Most notably, insect screens are often in the way when it becomes necessary to disengage the hardware to fully open the window for escape or ventilation. A key feature of this new product from Andersen includes eliminating the need to remove screens to release and reengage the hardware, making it quick and easy in the event of an emergency, or to fully open the sash for full ventilation.
An orange push-button release clearly identifies the release mechanism of the device, and an innovative flip cap shields it from accidental release. Made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel (see the limited warranty for details), the device is neatly displayed on the sill stop of the casement window. It’s also designed to automatically reengage when the window is cranked closed.
Casement devices are available for Andersen A-Series, 400 Series and 400 Series with Stormwatch® protection in standard and custom sizes. The device can also be installed on existing Andersen A-Series and 400 Series products manufactured since 1995. A reusable hardware installation kit is available when ordering.
Double-Hung and Single-Hung Window Solutions: Window opening control devices designed for Andersen® double-hung windows work with Andersen® A-Series, 400 Series and 200 Series product lines. Andersen 100 Series single hung products also have a window opening control device solution available.
Each kit contains right and left upper sash devices with full installation instructions. The devices are to be installed on both sides of the upper sash, limiting the opening of the lower sash to less than 4 inches. Release of the device allows the sash to fully open for maximum ventilation or if escape and rescue is necessary. The device automatically resets once the lower sash is returned to the closed position and will therefore stop at a less then 4 inch dimension when the sash is opened again.
Gliding Window Solutions: Similar to the double-hung devices, Andersen 400 Series and 200 Series gliding window opening control devices feature a dual action release. The device limits the opening of the venting sash to less than 4 inches when it is first opened. The release of the device allows the sash to be opened further for full sash ventilation and/or emergency escape and rescue. Window opening control devices automatically reset once the sash is returned to its fully closed position.
Window opening control devices provide a potential alternative to minimum sill height requirements or the use of window guards.
Always check with your local code official for all local code requirements to determine if the minimum window sill height code has been adopted in your area and if this device is accepted as an alternative to the minimum sill height requirement.
Andersen Window Opening Control Device solutions meet the requirements of ASTM F2090-08 Standard Specification for Window Fall Prevention Devices with Emergency Escape (Egress) Release Mechanisms and the 2010 version of the standard. ASTM F2090 is referenced in both the 2006 and 2009 ICC building codes as an alternative to minimum sill height requirements. Window opening control devices that comply with ASTM F2090 -08 or -10 must be able to:
- Restrict the window opening to a less than 4 inch dimension when opened,
- Must be able to be disengaged thru either a single dual action or two independent actions to allow the sash to be fully opened as needed for escape or rescue or for full ventilation, and
- Must re-engage when the sash is closed such that the next time the window is opened, it will again stop at a less than 4 inch opening.
Andersen Corporation has been involved with the issue of window safety for well over a decade. Andersen designed and implemented the insect screen warning label which became the industry standard. Andersen also developed the LookOut For Kids® window safety program beginning in the mid-90s to increase awareness and help educate consumers about window safety. The program includes a safety brochure and guidelines to help raise awareness of the importance of window safety among consumers and caregivers.
About Andersen Corporation
Andersen Corporation is the largest window and door manufacturer in North America, and the Andersen® brand is the most recognized and most used brand among builders and remodelers in the window and patio door industry. The privately owned company was founded in 1903 and has a strong history of commitment to its business partners, employees, community and environmental stewardship. Andersen was awarded the 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year award for the Product Manufacturer—Windows category for its family of brands. The company employs over 10,000 people and markets products throughout North America and in South America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
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