Test Exemption Clarification for Play Yards Moves Forward

An ASTM F15.18 task group will be seeking feedback at an upcoming subcommittee meeting on its work on clarifying a test exemption for play yard accessories. At the same time, members will be crafting language to address issues raised at a September 9 teleconference and at another in late July (PSL, 8/5/19). Mainly, those accessory designs and ensuring against a potential loophole via manufacturers' instructions about mattresses.

An issue with newer designs is how they are configured. Not only have manufacturers gone beyond mere changing surfaces, but sometimes accessories sit atop other accessories. Thus, there might need to be language specifying when and how these would be subject to testing – and this could involve likely occupant ages and their abilities to stand or rise up.

The potential loophole regards leeway allowed if instructions tell users to place the soft play yard floor into an accessory when using it. The goal is to render the play yard unusable when an accessory is attached thereby protecting against head entrapment risks.

As at the previous session, there were questions about the increased availability of aftermarket mattresses. These could be used by consumers to get around designs that force pad placement into accessories, rendering lower parts unusable when accessories are attached. This included a question of manufacturers' abilities to control for the possibility – is it more like consumers choosing to put soft bedding in cribs?