U.S. CPSC Votes to Enact New Safety Standard for Play Yards

FAIRFIELD, NJ, July 14, 2012

According to CPSC data, between November 2007 and December 2011, at least 170 children were injured and 60 killed as a result of becoming trapped in collapsed play yards, under mattress pads or being strangled by straps hanging in the play yard.

The final rule defines a ''play yard'' as a ''framed enclosure that includes a floor and has mesh or fabric sided panels primarily intended to provide a play or sleeping environment for children. It may fold for storage or travel.'' The rule is based on the voluntary standard ASTM F406-11 "Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Non- Full-Size Baby Cribs/Play Yards" with modifications.

Changes to ASTM F406-11
In comparison with ASTM F406-11, the 16 CFR 1221 (http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/frnotices/fr11/playyardNPRcomm.pdf) final rule includes the following changes:
• The provisions of ASTM F406-11 that apply to non-full size cribs have been excluded because those products are addressed in a separate rulemaking.
• The final rule will not include the 'bassinet mis-assembly requirements' and these will be addressed in a separate proposed rule.
• Additional changes clarify the existing provisions and reduce potential misinterpretations that could result in improper testing. Thus, these clarifications will strengthen the standard and reduce the risk of user injury by ensuring that play yard testing is performed properly.
• 16 CFR 1221 clarifies the equipment needed and test method to perform the floor strength test.
• The shape and area of the clamping surface for the ''Top Rail to Corner Post Attachment Test'' is also clarified in the final rule.

The ASTM F406-11 will be revised at a future time to align with the 16 CFR 1221 final rule.

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