Certification and Registration
16 CFR Part 1238 Safety Standard for Stationary Activity Centers
Category:
CPC
What is a fixed mobile center?
A fixed mobile center (also referred to as a stationary activity center) is a freestanding product designed to remain stationary, allowing a seated or standing occupant (with torso fully enclosed) to walk, sway, play, rotate, or bounce within a limited range (ASTM F2012‑18ε1, Section 3.1.12). It is intended for children who can lift their heads unaided but cannot yet walk.
Common designs include a seat suspended from a frame by springs or supported from below by a fixed base. ASTM F2012‑18ε1 defines three types:
● Closed‑base stationary activity center – the user’s feet cannot touch the floor in any manufacturer‑recommended configuration (Section 3.1.1).
● Open‑base stationary activity center – the user’s feet may remain in contact with the floor (Section 3.1.7).
● Spring‑supported stationary activity center – the seat/platform is supported or suspended by springs (or equivalent elastic components) (Section 3.1.10).
What is the purpose of the stationary activity center standard?
This standard minimises injury or death risks from falls from height, disassembly/collapse, stability issues, and allergic reactions.
Applicable Standards
16 CFR 1238 Safety Standard for Stationary Activity Centers
ASTM F2012-18 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Stationary Activity Centers
What are the specific requirements?
This standard specifies performance requirements, general performance criteria, and labeling requirements for stationary activity centers. These performance requirements cover the following aspects.
● Pointed tips and edges.
● Widget.
● A latch or locking mechanism to prevent accidental folding.
● Open.
● Cutting, shearing, and extrusion.
● Exposed helical spring.
● Toy accessories sold together with the stationary activity center.
● Protective components.
● Spring failure and a fixed-type movable center supported by springs.
● Structural integrity, including requirements related to dynamic loads, static loads, and leg openings.
● Stability, including overturning and seat tilt; as well as
● The movement resistance of an open‑base, fixed‑type activity center.
The standard also includes requirements for warning labels and instruction manuals.
Additional CPSIA requirements for stationary activity centers
These products must comply with:
● Surface coating – paint/finishes shall not exceed 90 ppm (0.009%) lead.
● Lead content – any accessible part shall not exceed 100 ppm.
● Small parts – must be tested and prohibited for children under 3.
● Testing and certification – must be tested by a CPSC‑accredited lab; based on results, the domestic manufacturer (or importer) must issue a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) specifying each applicable rule.
● Product and packaging labelling – durable infant/toddler products must bear permanent labels (including traceability information) on both product and packaging.
● Product registration card – additional markings and a registration card must be attached to the product.
The U.S. market has strong demand for infant products, with equally stringent regulations. SATISFY offers compliance guidance; contact SATISFY customer service for more details.
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