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Safety Standards for Bunk Beds
By Kristen J. Gough
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Safety Standards for Bunk Beds
These safety risks may seem overwhelming, but the CPSC has taken steps to prevent problems. Since 2000, the CPSC has imposed mandatory requirements on bunk bed manufacturers to create safer beds. The guidelines, in part, state the following:
- Bunk beds must have at least two upper bunk guardrails, with at least one rail on each side.
- Bunk beds cannot have any openings on the guardrails that would allow a child's head or body to slip through.
- Bunk beds must have a label with the name and address of the manufacturer, the model number, and the month and year of manufacture.
- Bunk beds must have clear instructions on the proper mattress size to fit the bed frame and on how to safely use the beds.
In addition to these standards, many bunk bed manufacturers also adhere to voluntary standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). These requirements offer even more protection for children from entrapment, including bed ends and bed slats (the supports under the mattress) that are too small for the child's head or torso to fit through.
Once you've found a bed you're interested in purchasing, ask if the bed meets both the CPSC and the ASTM requirements. Also, check that there have been no recalls on the bed by going to the CPSC website (cpsc.org).
Safe Set-Up Tips
There are several things you can do to keep your children snug and safe in their bunk beds.
- Bed placement: The best place is in a corner, where the bed will have support from two walls. The bed should be flush against the walls, not allowing for space (or heads) in between.
- Top bunk placement: An adult should be able to enter and exit the top bunk without hitting the ceiling, ceiling fans, or light fixtures. The CPSC suggests this space be at least two meters.
- Mattress placement: Make sure that you buy the suggested mattress size for the bed. Don't rely on a hand-me down.
- Ladder placement: The ladder should be bolted into the bed frame. Removable ladders may become unstable after use. Place a nightlight near the ladder so that sleepy children can find their way down safely.
- Entrapment check: Parents should examine the bed for any possible opening, such as in railings or slats, that could allow the child's head or torso through.
