BS EN716:2008 is a technical standard that sets out the safety requirements for cots for children up to 36 months old. It is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of infants and toddlers during their sleep or playtime in a cot. This standard is applicable to both domestic and commercial cots used in nurseries, daycares, and other child care establishments.
Key Requirements of BS EN716:2008
The BS EN716:2008 standard outlines several important requirements that manufacturers must adhere to:
- Dimensional requirements: The cot must be of suitable dimensions to prevent the risk of injury to the child. This includes the size of the cot, spacing between bars, and height requirements.
- Materials and construction: The materials used in the cot's construction should be safe, durable, and resistant to wear. The standard also specifies that there should be no sharp edges or points that could harm the child.
- Bed bases and stability: The bed base should be sturdy, well-supported, and not easily dislodged. The cot's overall stability is crucial to avoid any risk of tipping over during use.
- Mattresses and bedding: The standard requires that the mattress provided with the cot should fit well and be of appropriate firmness for a safe sleeping environment. The use of additional pillows, blankets, or soft bedding that can pose a suffocation hazard is discouraged.
Testing and Certification
To ensure compliance with BS EN716:2008, manufacturers subject their cots to rigorous testing procedures. These tests evaluate various aspects of the cot, including dimensional requirements, strength, stability, and the aBS ENce of hazards. The mattresses are also tested for firmness and breathability.
Once a cot passes all the necessary tests, it can be certified as compliant with BS EN716:2008. The certification provides assurance to consumers that the cot meets all safety requirements and has undergone thorough testing.
The Importance of BS EN716:2008
The implementation of BS EN716:2008 is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of young children when using cots. It helps prevent accidents such as entrapment between bars, falls from unstable cots, and suffocation due to inappropriate bedding. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers contribute to creating a safer environment for infants and toddlers.
Parents and caregivers should always look for cots that comply with BS EN716:2008 when purchasing one for their children. This ensures that the cot has been tested and certified, providing peace of mind and a higher level of safety.
Nina She