BABY WALKING FRAMES - Short version

The use of baby walking frames has been subject of controversy for many years. Paediatricians and consumer organisations have called repeatedly for their ban. Falls down stairs resulting in serious head injuries are of particular concern.

Following the introduction of a new product design and the implementation of respective normative requirements accidents have sharply declined in the United States of America. These new types of baby walking frames are effectively stopped when passing the edge of a step and thus, prevent falls.

Also in Europe similar regulations for baby walking frames have been envisaged. The Consumer Council has been charged with the preparation of a draft European standard. The US standard ASTM F 977-96 has served as the basis of the work. The standard was approved in February 2005. It could have been made compulsory a long time ago. Unfortunately, the Commission has still not taken the necessary steps for this.