All prams and pushchairs, both new and second-hand, must comply with British Standard 7409. Prams and pushchairs are defined as any wheeled vehicle designed for the transport of one or more infants either seated or reclined. The label should also include the name of the UK manufacturer, UK Distributor or UK retailer.

How can I tell if my prams and pushchairs comply?

The British Standard requires that a label is permanently attached to the pram or pushchair stating that it complies to the standard, so look for the label stating that it complies with BS 7409. These labels are usually found on the frame or seat covering.

Second-hand Prams and Pushchairs

If prams and pushchairs have been damaged or modified they may no longer meet the requirements of the standard. The only way to be absolutely certain is to have the item tested by a laboratory, an expensive business. However there are some things you can check:

• That there are no sharp edges or points.
• That the main and secondary locks both engage and work properly.
• That the safety harness is in good condition. Make sure it is secure and the straps are not frayed or ripped. The harness should consist of shoulder straps, a waist strap and a crotch strap - a 5-point safety harness.
• That the wheels are secure.
• That the parking brake works when the pram is moved forwards and backwards.
• That exposed tubes and closing mechanisms have some means of preventing fingers getting trapped.
• That permanent fixtures , which can be gripped by a child's fingers or teeth, are attached in such a way that they cannot be removed or broken by the child.
• That any detachable components that could be hazardous to a child must be attached in such a way so that they are inaccessible to a child whilst in the pram or incapable of being operated by the child.
• That written instructions for operation and maintenance are supplied with the pram. In the case of secondhand goods if instructions are unavailable, and without them the product could not be operated safely, you may commit an offence if you supply the pram without the instructions.

Flammability requirements

• All upholstered prams and pushchairs (new and second-hand) have had to comply since 1990 with the stringent flammability requirements contained in the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988.
• New prams and pushchairs also have to carry permanent labels giving information about how they comply with the regulations.
• If second-hand items do not have a permanent label with the words "Carelessness Causes Fire" then it must be assumed that it does not comply.

Please Note

This leaflet is not an authoritative interpretation of the law and is intended only for guidance. For further information please contact your local Consumer Protection or Trading Standards office.

Trading Standards Division, 3rd Floor, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
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