CPSC Proposes New Federal Safety Standard for Infant Sling Carriers
As part of its continuing implementation of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA), the Consumer Product Safety Commission last week issued a proposed rule that would establish a safety standard for sling carriers. A sling carrier, or “infant sling,” is a product of fabric or sewn fabric construction which is designed to contain a child in an upright or reclined position while being supported by the caregiver’s torso. The proposed rule would make the voluntary ASTM F2907-14a, “Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Sling Carriers,” mandatory under the CPSIA.
ASTM F2907-14a is a recently updated ASTM standard that imposes many requirements on sling carrier manufacturers. Notably, the standard requires specific construction, quality, and durability test methods. Also, prominent warnings and instructions must appear on the sling carrier. Sling carriers, increasingly popular in the United States, have received much scrutiny from the CPSC because of 122 safety incidents reported to the Commission since 2003, including 16 deaths attributed to sling carriers. The CPSC has warned of the risk of suffocation and falls caused by sling carriers and has issued five consumer-level recalls involving sling carriers since 2003.
The CPSIA requires the CPSC to promulgate consumer product safety standards for durable infant or toddler products, including “infant carriers.” Prior to addressing the category of sling carriers, the CPSC in the last several months has published final rules on safety standards for hand-held infant carriers and soft infant carriers, and has proposed a rule for frame backpack carriers.
The CPSC is accepting comments on the proposed sling carrier rule until October 6, 2014. The notice of proposed rulemaking can be viewed here.
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