The CPSC has unanimously approved, with a 3-0 vote, a new mandatory federal safety standard to be implemented for infant swings in order to prevent injuries to and deaths of young children.
Between 2009 and May 2012, there were 351 infant swing-related incidents, two of which resulted in death; 24 of the non-fatal incidents caused injuries.
Infant swings, as defined by the CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission), are “stationary juvenile products with a frame and powered mechanism that enables an infant to swing in a seated position.” Infant swings are meant to be used with infants from birth until an age where the child can sit up on his or her own. Travel and cradle swings are also held to the new federal standards, which include the following requirements:
- A more explicit warning label, advising consumers to use the swing in the most reclined position until the baby is four months old and is able to hold up their own head; to prevent slump-over deaths
- A stability test to ensure that the swing cannot tip over
- A test to prevent inadvertent folding
- Tests for restraint systems in order to prevent breakage of restraints or slippage during use
- Cradle swing surfaces must stay relatively flat while the swing is in use or at rest
- Swings that are electronically-powered must be designed to prevent overheating or battery leakage
- Toy mobiles must be designed so that toys will not detach if pulled
- Shoulder strap restraints must be included for any swing with seat angles greater than 50 degrees
- Identified static and dynamic load requirements to prevent breakage
The above standards will be effective as of May 7, 2013.
While these standards will improve the safety of infant swing sets, there are many more products that may pose safety hazards due to defective manufacturing or design.
At Blume Forte, our product liability attorneys in New Jersey can help consumers pursue meritorious claims against negligent design and manufacturing companies when their products cause injuries to consumers. To find out whether you may be entitled to take legal action, contact us for a no-cost consultation at 973-845-4421.