ASTM CSUs Panel Sees CPSC Strength Data Update as Desirable

An ASTM F15.42 task group January 26 briefly veered into discussion about the need for CPSC's newish project to update children's strength data. The trigger was a force figure related to a pull test for interlocking drawers on clothing storage units (CSUs). Questions arose about where a pull force of 133 N came from and how old the data behind were. It came from a BIFMA standard, but uncertainty about the age led to the topic of CPSC's work.

An agency staffer on the call explained that updated data from CPSC are years away – but did offer to share the information, albeit old, currently used for such estimates.

Elsewhere the panel decided to look at adding a simple diagram to aid with the proposed directions that the force be applied parallel to drawer travel. Drafting will occur offline.

Another interesting point raised in the discussion about F2057 standard involved the meaning of "normal use." The issue was a direction for labs to leave safety features in place as they should be during "normal use." A likely note will attempt to get at the intended meaning – activities like putting items in or taking them out – with a note clarifying that "normal use" does not include activities like assembling a unit or retrieving items lost behind drawers.