EU publishes updated standard for Carry Cots

Vol. 1368 | 10 Aug 2023

European Standard EN 1466:2023 Carry Cots and Stands for Domestic Use has been published recently. It supersedes the old standard (EN 1466:2014+AC 2015 which is still harmonized under GPSD) latest by June 2024.

This updated document includes a number of significant technical changes as follows:

1. Define a clear scope and cover those carry cots for carrying a child in a lying position by means of handle(s) by using one hand and intended for domestic use.
2. Add/update new chemical requirements in Cl 6.2 Chemical Hazards:
   1. Migration of certain elements per EN 71-3:2019 +A1:2021
   2. Formaldehyde per EN ISO 14184-1:2011
   3. Colorants per EN 71-10:2005
3. Update the standard reference in Thermal Hazard (Cl 6.3) by referring EN 71-2:2020, clause 5.4 for surface flash and clearly include the flame propagation rate (≤ 50mm/s) in the same test.
4. Improve the layout in testing the effectiveness of the retaining function of the sides of non-rigid carry cots (Cl 7.1.2.3)
   1. Outline the test methods on the sides and ends of the non-rigid carry cot
   2. Clarify the orientation of the 9 kg test mass when placing in the geometric centre of the carry cot (its long axis should be parallel to the longer side of the carry cot)
   3. Introduce a new test sphere (Cl 5.11, 5 kg and dia 120mm) in testing the ends of non-rigid carry cots (7.1.2.4)
5. Editorial changes in clause 7.1.5 Restraint system
6. Additional requirement and test method for internal lining made of fabric in Cl 7.6 Suffocation hazard. Such a lining shall be designed and tensioned so not to present any suffocation hazard to the occupant.
7. Revise the layout and clarity in Cl 7.8.3 Stability tests with the following key changes:
   1. Improve the diagram in the stability on the inclined plane by the addition of the stopper as required by the standard
   2. Define the location where the maximum angle of inclination should be determined in longitudinal stability of carry cots
   3. Remove the dummy box (3 kg) and replaced by “a compatible carry cot in accordance with the stand manufacturer’s instructions”
8. Revise and improve the strength tests of carry cots and stands in Cl 7.9.3 and 7.9.4 :
   1. Add the requirement for those carry cot with more than one flexible carrying handle
   2. A complete new requirements in the strength of carrying handle(s) locking mechanism(s)
   3. Remove the dummy box (3 kg) but use the compatible carry cot according to the manufacturer’s instruction when testing the strength of stands
9. Product information per Cl 9:
   1. Set the minimum font height (2.5mm) for warning sentences
   2. Define web page as the point of sales if the product is sold on internet
   3. The following pictogram shall be accompanied by the statement “This product is suitable only for a child who cannot sit up unaided, roll over and cannot push itself up on its hands and knees. Maximum weight of the child: 9 kg."
      
      Note – this requirement does not apply to products complying with ECE 44/R129.
   4. The marking for non-rigid carry cot shall have the warning “WARNING: Never leave the child unattended” and shall be accompanied by the following graphical symbol:
      
   5. Other editorial changes in clause 9.4 Instructions for use and maintenance for carry cot and/or stand
10. Add Annex ZA to cover the relationship between this EN standard and the safety requirements of GPSD 2001/95/EC

If you have any questions, please contact our technical expert John Ng (john.ng@intertek.com).