New CPSC Safety Standard for Infant Bouncer Seats Takes Effect in March 2018

The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued its final rule setting a new safety standard for infant bouncer seats. The mandatory standard adopts the most recent voluntary industry standard ASTM F2167-17, with two modifications related to warning label content and placement CPSC said. “These modifications strengthen the standard by requiring a more stringent warning to caregivers to use the restraints, even if an infant falls asleep in the bouncer, and requires the fall hazard warning to be placed on the upper seat back of the bouncer seat, to ensure that caregivers read and heed the warning,” it said. The final rule defines infant bouncer seats as “a freestanding product intended to support an occupant in a reclined position to facilitate bouncing by the occupant, with the aid of a caregiver or by other means.” Infant bouncer seats are intended for “infants who have not developed the ability to sit up unassisted (approximately 0 to 6 months of age),” and generally “consist of a cloth cover stretched over a wire or tubular frame,” CPSC said. The new safety standard takes effect March 19, 2018.

(Federal Register 09/18/17)