U.S. CPSC Issues Final Rule for Infant Bath Seats (16 CFR 1215)

Vol. 1433 | 19 Nov 2024

On October 9, 2024, the U.S. United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) updated the Safety Standard for Infant Bath Seats (16 CFR 1215), effective January 4, 2025, incorporating ASTM F1697-24. Key changes include a textured testing surface for slip resistance and clarified testing methods on surfaces with and without safety tread strips to enhance safety and stability.

The updated 16 CFR 1215 mandatory standard incorporates the ASTM F1697-24 Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Infant Bath Seats, which includes modified test equipment, clarification on how to perform the stability test, along with other editorial changes. It replaces the previous version, ASTM F1967-19.

 

Definition of Bath Seat

A “bath seat” is “an article that is used in a bath tub, sink, or similar bathing enclosure and that provides support, at a minimum, to the front and back of a seated infant during bathing by a caregiver”.

The definition excludes products designed or intended to retain water for bathing, such as infant bath tubs.

 

Key Changes in the Updated Standard

While the new 2024 version includes some minor editorial changes, a significant modification involves the testing surface (adult bathtub) for stability assessments. The surface is now required to have a textured or grit finish instead of a smooth surface to enhance slip resistance. This change results in more stringent testing conditions for the stability of bath seats.

Additionally, the testing method has been clarified that bath seats designed to contact the bottom of the adult bathtub must be tested on two surfaces:

• Test Surface #1: with safety tread strips
• Test Surface #2: without safety tread strips

These changes aim to strengthen safety and performance requirements for infant bath seats, providing better protection for young children.

 

Effective Date

January 4, 2025, pending no significant adverse comments by November 8, 2024. If the Commission receives such comments, it will publish a document in the Federal Register, withdrawing this direct final rule before its effective date.

 

For additional information, please contact: Carl Tso (carl.tso@intertek.com).