Window fall protection is a critical safety consideration in residential and commercial buildings, especially where children are present. Outswing project-out windows, while common, can present increased safety risks when exposed to dynamic wind forces and hardware stress.
Over the years, highly publicized incidents have highlighted the dangers of children falling from open windows. In response, we limited all operable windows to a 4-inch maximum opening, meeting New York City Fall Prevention requirements and ASTM F2090 window fall prevention standards. While opening limiters help reduce fall risks, they are not always enough. Wind shear and repeated stress can damage limit devices over time, increasing the potential for failure.
A Better Solution for Window Fall Prevention
The challenge is designing windows that improve fall protection without compromising ventilation, appearance, or emergency escape. Casement Inswing windows offer a safer, more durable approach to window fall protection.
Benefits of Casement Inswing Windows
Casement inswing windows provide multiple performance and safety advantages, including:
- Reduced exposure to wind damage compared to outswing windows
- Larger operable openings with consistent exterior sightlines
- Easy cleaning from inside the building
- Compliance with 5 lb ADA operating force requirements
- Enhanced air and water resistance through center vent gasketing
- A clean exterior aesthetic without wicket screens
These features make casement inswing windows an ideal choice for architects, building owners, and facility managers focused on long-term safety and performance.
Why Fixed Windows Are Not the Answer
Some window fall prevention strategies rely on eliminating operable windows entirely. However, fixed windows can negatively affect indoor air quality by limiting natural ventilation. Poor ventilation can contribute to increased indoor pollutants, excess humidity, mold growth, and moisture damage.
Additionally, fixed windows remove a critical emergency egress option during power outages, fires, or natural disasters—situations where operable windows can help preserve life.
Window Fall Protection with Emergency Egress
Every casement inswing window is equipped with a Peerless Releasable Limit Arm, providing effective fall protection while maintaining emergency egress capability.
 | Key Features of the Peerless Releasable Limit Arm – Meets Fair Housing and safety requirements – Allows quick release for emergency escape – Enables safe interior window cleaning – Optional head-mounted installation for enhanced fall protection This system ensures safety without sacrificing accessibility or code compliance. |
A Smarter Approach to Window Safety
When it comes to window fall protection, choosing the right design matters. Casement inswing windows deliver reliable child fall prevention, strong performance in high-wind conditions, natural ventilation, and emergency egress—all in one solution.
For more information on our casement window solutions or to request a quote, contact us!