New safety standard for infant bouncer seats in effect

Washington — A new Consumer Product Safety Commission regulation intended to enhance the safety of infant bouncer seats is in effect, the agency announced March 23.

The rule is based on a current voluntary standard, American Society for Testing and Materials F2167-17, and requires these fall hazard warnings on products manufactured or imported after March 19:

• “Use bouncer ONLY on the floor.”
• “ALWAYS use restraints and adjust to fit snugly, even if baby falls asleep.”
• “STOP using bouncer when baby starts trying to sit up or has reached [insert manufacturer’s maximum weight, not to exceed 20 pounds], whichever comes first.”

The warnings must be placed on the front of the bouncer seat near the baby’s head and shoulders, improving the visibility.

CPSC states that 347 incidents involving bouncer seats – including 12 fatalities and 54 injuries – were reported to the agency from 2006 to July 6, 2016.

Bouncer seats typically are used for infants up to 6 months old who have not developed the ability to sit up unassisted, the agency states in a 2017 press release announcing the new standard.

CPSC cautions parents and caregivers to never place a bouncer on a bed, sofa or other soft surface (babies have suffocated when bouncers tipped over onto soft surfaces); and to stay near and watch the baby during bouncer use.