CPSC Publishes Final Rules for Play Yards within Federal Register

On August 29, 2012, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) staff published within the federal register the final rules for play yards. The final rules will adopt the ASTM F406-12a standard as mandatory with several specified modifications and will become effective February 28, 2013.

Background of CPSIA
Under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is required to study current industry safety standards related to certain infant & toddler products and to make an assessment as to whether those standards would be considered sufficient safety standards. CPSC has already issued mandatory standards for infant walkers, infant bath seats, toddler beds, full / non-full size cribs, and portable bed rails.

Summary
A play yard is defined as a framed enclosure that includes a floor and has mesh or fabric sided panels primarily intended to provide a sleeping or playing environment for children. It also may fold for storage or travel.

The final rules, designated as 16 CFR 1221, will require each play yard that is manufactured or imported on or after February 28, 2013, to comply with the requirements of ASTM F406-12a with some minor modifications as listed below.

Summary of Modifications

Not required to comply with Sections 5.17, 5.19, 6 and 10.1.1.1 – These sections of the standard are not applicable to play yards.

Not required to comply with Section 5.20 – This section is not a safety requirement for play yards.

Not required to comply with Sections 8.1 through 8.10.5 – These sections are test methods for rigid crib products.

Instead of complying with Section 9.4.2.10 of the ASTM F406-12a, comply with the following labeling requirement;

9.4.2.10 - For products that have a separate mattress that is not permanently fixed in place: Use ONLY mattress/pad provided by manufacturer.

Additional Information
To view the final rules for play yards: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-08-29/pdf/2012-21168.pdf

Bureau Veritas Assistance

If you have any comments and/or questions, please contact your customer service representative or email: cps.info@us.bureauveritas.com.

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