A new Federal safety standard for infant bouncer seats is now in effect

By Joe Messa

Apr 17

A new federal safety standard has taken effect in an effort to make infant bouncer seats safer in the United States. The new mandatory standard will apply to any infant bouncer chair manufactured or imported after March 19, 2018.

The new rules included in this updated standard revolve around fall hazards. Warnings will be placed on the front of the seat near where the baby’s head and shoulders would be in order to provide optimum visibility. Warning labels must included the following statements:

  • “Use bouncer ONLY on 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 recommended maximum weight, not to exceed 20lbs.], whichever comes first.”

Why a new standard for infant bouncer seats?

Between January 2006 and July 2016, there were 347 incident reports to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) involving bouncer seats, including 12 fatalities and 54 injuries. The major cause of fatality was suffocation caused by unrestrained babies turning over in a bouncer, or bouncers tipped over onto soft surfaces when placed on adult beds or cribs. The majority of the remaining incidents were caused by infants falling from bouncers placed in hazardous locations like countertops, tables, and other elevated surfaces.

The CPSC recommends the following tips when using infant bouncer seats;

  • Always use the bouncer on the floor.
  • Never place the bouncer on a soft surface like a bed or sofa.
  • Always use restraints and adjust so they fit snugly, even if the baby is asleep.
  • Keep the bouncer seat within eyesight while in use.

New Jersey and Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys

The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates know that most of the time, parents do all they can to keep their children safe. Often times, professional negligence gets in the way and we are left to deal with the physical and emotional consequences. It is great that government agencies are able enforce safety standards, but sometimes they come too late. Product manufacturers are responsible for producing good, safe products for our children. If your child has been injured by a bouncer seat or other defective product, contact the Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates. Our extremely skilled team of attorneys is experienced in cases regarding injuries to children. Call toll-free at 877-MessaLaw or submit a free online inquiry.

Let the attorneys at Messa & Associates secure peace of mind and financial security for you and your family.

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About the Author

Joseph L. Messa, Jr. is the founding partner of Messa & Associates, P.C. He is an AV-rated attorney (highest rating available), listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers. Read More