16 CFR Part 1230 Safety Standard for Frame Child Carriers

Core purpose

Minimize the risk of fatalities and injuries associated with the use of frame-style child backrests, particularly incidents related to structural integrity, such as poorly stitched seams on straps, detachable fabric components on frames, loose screws, frame fractures, backrest instability, excessively large leg openings that cause children to slip or nearly slip out of the backrest, and inadequate restraint for children.

What is a “frame-style child carrier”?

According to the definitions in 16 CFR Part 1230 and ASTM F2549, a frame-style child carrier refers to:

Structural characteristics: a fabric-structured product stitched onto metal tubes or other frames.

Usage: designed for individuals who care for children to carry them upright on their backs.

Wear location: worn on the back, with the face facing forward or backward, hanging on the shoulders of the person caring for the child.

Suitable for: suitable for children who can sit upright without assistance, weighing between 16 pounds and 50 pounds (approximately 7.3 kilograms to 22.7 kilograms). Usage scenarios: This type of carrier is commonly used for outdoor expeditions, closely resembling backpacks designed for carrying children, but not intended for this purpose.

Testing and certification requirements

Third-party testing:

Frame-style child carriers must be tested by a third-party laboratory accredited by the CPSC to ensure compliance with 16 CFR Part 1230/ASTM F2549-22 standards and all other applicable child product safety regulations.

Child Product Certificate (CPC):

Domestic manufacturers or importers must issue a Child Product Certificate (CPC) based on third-party testing results. The Certificate’s Part 2 (Reference Standards) must clearly state: “16 CFR part 1230 – Frame child carriers.”