Aug 14, 2008

An ASTM International standard for bunk beds is prominently cited in a recently released advisory from Health Canada, the federal department that is responsible for helping Canadians maintain and improve their health. The standard, ASTM F1427, Consumer Safety Specification for Bunk Beds, is under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee F15.30 on Bunk Beds, which is part of ASTM International Committee F15 on Consumer Products.

The Health Canada advisory states, "When purchasing a bunk bed, make sure it meets the latest version of the ASTM F1427 standard. The current edition is 2007. If there are no labels indicating compliance with the latest ASTM F1427 standard, ask the store before you buy, or contact the manufacturer for more information."

ASTM F1427, which is used by manufacturers, importers and distributors, establishes minimum requirements for the design and performance of bunk beds and also contains requirements for labeling and instructional material.

"We applaud Health Canada's efforts to improve the safety of bunk beds in Canada with the issuance of this advisory and are pleased that they have recognized the importance of ASTM F1427 and its value in protecting Canadian consumers from injury," says Bill Perdue, chair of Subcommittee F15.30, and vice president, environmental safety, health and standards, American Home Furnishing Alliance.

In addition to citing ASTM F1427, Health Canada provided the following safety tips concerning bunk beds in its advisory:

-Children should be taught how to use bunk beds safely. The top bunk is not safe for children
 under six years of age.
-Allow only one person on the top bunk, and do not allow children to play on or under bunk beds
 unless the area under the bed is designed by the manufacturer as a play area or study center.
-The bed should have all guardrails installed at all times, even if the bed is pushed up against a
 wall.
-Check regularly to make sure the bed frame is sturdy.
-Never tie ropes or cords, such as belts for bathrobes or skipping ropes, to any part of the bed. 
 These can pose serious strangulation hazards.
-Check to ensure the bed comes with instructions for assembly and has a label with safety
 warnings. Read and follow these instructions and warnings carefully.

For technical Information, contact: Bill Perdue, American Home Furnishing Alliance, High Point, N.C. (phone: 336-884-5000; bperdue@ahfa.us). For meeting or membership information, contact Leonard Morrissey, ASTM International (phone: 610-832-9719; lmorriss@astm.org).

 

Release #8044