US CPSC Issues Direct Final Rule for Soft Infant and Toddler Carriers

SafeGuardSToys and Juvenile ProductsNovember 26, 2024

SG 166/24

US Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has published direct final rule 16 CFR 1226 to incorporate the latest version of the ASTM standard for soft infant and toddler carriers

On November 20, 2024, the CPSC published a direct final rule to update 16 CFR 1226, safety standard for soft infant and toddler carriers. The rule incorporates the latest version ASTM F2236-24 (Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Soft Infant and Toddler Carriers) with no modifications. It will become effective on February 22, 2025, provided the CPSC does not receive significant adverse comments by December 20, 2024.

The standard defines a soft infant and toddler carrier as a product, normally of sewn fabric construction, which is designed to contain full-term infants to toddlers, generally in an upright position, in close proximity to the caregiver. In general, the child will weigh between 7 lb and 45 lb (3.2 kg and 20.4 kg). The soft infant and toddler carrier is normally ‘worn’ by the caregiver with a child positioned in the carrier and the weight of the child and carrier suspended from one or both shoulders of the caregiver. These products may be worn on the front, side or back of the caregiver's body, with the infant either facing towards or away from the caregiver. This does not include products generally referred to as ‘slings’.

The revised standard includes the following changes:

Revision to the definition for ‘static load’
Added a definition for ‘primary load bearing fastener’ and ‘secondary load bearing fastener’
Revised section 5.7 regarding flammability requirements
Revised section 6.4 regarding fastener strength and strap retention requirements
Revised section 8 regarding marking and labelling requirements
Revised section 9 regarding instructional literature requirements

A read-only copy of the standard is available on the ASTM reading room.

Final rule 16 CFR 1226

Childcare equipment and children’s furniture must meet strict safety, quality and performance requirements. With a global network of experts and laboratories, SGS can address the testing, inspection, risk assessment and technical documentation requirements for products, as well as conduct factory and social audits to ensure your supply chain is compliant too. Contact us for more information or visit our website. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.

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