ASTM F1917

ASTM International Publishes Revised Standard for Infant Bedding and Related Accessories

In August 2012, ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), announced the publication of a revised safety performance specification for Infant Bedding and Related Accessories. The revised standard, designated as ASTM F1917-12, provides new safety requirements as well as an update to current requirements for Infant Bedding and Related Accessories.

Background
ASTM F1917 is the Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Infant Bedding and Related Accessories. Infant Bedding and Related Accessories are defined as items intended for use in a nursery and include fitted sheets, blankets, dust ruffles, covers and drapes for canopies, pillows, mattress covers, diaper stackers, fabric wall hangings, bumper guards, headboard bumper guards and comforters.

The ASTM F1917-12 version was published in August 2012. This revised version of the standard replaces the previous ASTM F1917-08 version. The 2012 version of the standard includes editorial revisions for clarity, additional definitions as well as the changes discussed below in the summary.

Summary of Changes within ASTM F1917:

• Revised previous requirement for ribbons, strings, and ties. Now applicable to decorative components.
• Revision of evaluation for unsupported vinyl (only applies to unsupported vinyl that is accessible to the infant).
• Inclusion of new test evaluation for maximum bumper thickness.
• Inclusion of new evaluation for strength of bumper pad ties.
• Revised warning for Crib bumpers (additions underlined are new to the standard) .
                                                    ΔWARNING
  To reduce the risk of suffocation, keep top of bumper up and in position. DO NOT allow bumper to sag down or in toward the sleeping surface. DO NOT use bumper if sagging cannot be corrected.To prevent entanglement or strangulation, position ties to outside of crib and be sure they are secure.
  Remove bumper when child can sit up unaided or can pull to a standing position.
• New warning required for flat mattress covers and fitted mattress covers
• For flat mattress covers
                                         ΔWARNING
  Prevent suffocation or entanglement hazard. This cover shall only be used in a crib or sleep environment when properly secured underneath a tight fitting sheet that fits securely on mattress and wraps around the mattress corners.
• For fitted mattress covers
                                         ΔWARNING
  Possible strangulation or entanglement hazard. Never use crib mattress cover unless it fits securely on crib mattress and wraps around the mattress corners.

Additional Information To purchase a copy of the ASTM F1917-12: http://www.astm.org/Standards/F1917.htm