On Feb 1, 2024, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) approved a revised version of ASTM F2088 and published ASTM F2088-24 in March 2024.

This ASTM standard covers performance requirements and test methods of infant and cradle swings. It also provides requirements for labeling and instructional literature to promote safe use of the swing by an occupant and a caregiver.

This ASTM standard covers products with a powered mechanism used for the purpose of providing a swinging or gliding seat in any direction relative to the frame (that is, front to back, side to side, arc, etc.) for an infant. The powered mechanism can be through batteries, AC adapter, wind-up mechanism, or other means. This specification does not cover products that are intended to provide sleeping accommodations for the occupant.

This ASTM standard added definitions 3.1.3 and 3.1.13, clearly stated the difference between cord and strap: a length of slender flexible material is called ”cord”, a piece of flexible material of which the width is significantly greater than the thickness is called “strap”. At the same time, this ASTM standard also improves the definition 3.1.15 according to the above two added definitions.

Significant changes to the standard from ASTM F2088-22 to ASTM F2088–24 are described below.

1. Add definition 3.1.3: cord; 3.1.13: strap;
2. Revise definition 3.1.15: tethered strap and/or cord;
3. Revise the description of requirements in clause 6.9: Tethered Strap or Cord Entrapment or Entanglement Accessibility for Non-occupant, add clause 6.9.1 and 6.9.2.
4. Add figure 14, 15 & 16

Compared to the previous version, the most distinct change in ASTM F2088-24 is the cord and strap. Not only have the definitions been clearer, but also the relevant test requirements and methods have been revised. In the context of various kinds of situations during testing due to the variable product in different design, we can get an appropriate answer on requirements the cord and strap shall meet in different situations from this ASTM standard.

More information:
Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Infant and Cradle Swings ASTM F2088-24

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