Competition Policy and Consumer Affairs Minister Chris Bowen today announced a mandatory standard for portable folding cots.
"The Commonwealth Government is concerned about the safety of portable folding cots and is sending a clear message to suppliers that they should look to comply with this standard as soon as possible," Mr Bowen said.
"The safety of our kids and the legitimate concerns of parents are paramount.
"The potential serious hazards and the vulnerability of infants in portable cots have been well established by child health and safety specialists.
"The Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) process found that an estimated 10% of portable folding cots on the Australian market did not meet appropriate safety standards.
"The move to a mandatory safety standard for portable folding cots has received widespread support amongst producers and consumer groups."
The Australian National Coroners Information System found 25 deaths associated with children's cots since January 2000, although generally, the data does not distinguish between household or portable cots.
The safety features of the new standard are drawn from the Australian/New Zealand voluntary standard for portable cots and include:
- requirements for the security of folding mechanisms;
- the elimination of entrapment gaps;
- the safety of the mattresses; and
- the provision of safe use warnings.
The new mandatory safety standard for portable folding cots, introduced under the Trade Practices Act 1974, will take effect from 1 March 2009.
"The ACCC will conduct a consumer and supplier product safety awareness campaign and promote the new mandatory safety standard alongside key messages for the safe use of portable cots in the coming months," Mr Bowen said.
"Between now and the date of effect of the new standard, the ACCC will also monitor the portable cots market and ensure appropriate action is taken to address any potential safety hazards that may arise."
During the RIS development process, the ACCC examined samples of various portable cots on the market and discussed design trends and the levels of safety with suppliers and child safety specialists, while Choice has periodically reviewed the performance of portable cots.
21 February 2008
Media Contact: James Cullen - 0409 719 879