CPSC Takes Steps on Pair of Section 104 Rulemakings

Expansion gates/enclosures and crib mattresses are the topics of two Section 104 rulemaking activities getting the attention of commissioners.

The first was 3-0 approval of a direct final rule to incorporate changes from ASTM F1004-21 on gates/enclosures. Staffers wrote (bit.ly/3u5gJFP) that the updates either are safety-neutral editorial revisions or harmonized with CPSC requirements at 16 CFR 1239 on issues like wall cups and pressure indictors. The updates would be effective January 2 absent significant adverse comment.

Meanwhile, votes are due by September 28 on a crib mattress final rule to incorporate with amendments ASTM F2933-21 into 16 CFR 1120 and 1112. There are three changes from last year's NPR (PSL, 10/12/20) in response to comments:

• Fitted sheet tests would accommodate larger mattresses via measurement of gaps from projected crib corners.

 

• Cyclic impact tests would have a clarification on need for multiple mattresses due to destructive testing.

 

• Safety labeling provisions would have clarifications related providing information on SIDS and suffocation.

The NPR sought changes from the standard related to suffocation, entrapment, lacerations, and marking/labeling/instructions. The rule would be effective six months after Federal Register publication.