I have done some research on Health and Safety within childrenswear, and here is some of the information that i have found;
Legislation and Standards
- The General Product Safety Regulations 2005 cover ALL products.
- The Children‘s Clothing (Hood Cords) Regulations 1976
- the Nightwear (Safety) Regulations 1985
- BS 7907:2007 – Code of practice for the design and manufacture of children’s clothing to promote mechanical safety.
- BSEN 14682:2004 – Cords & Drawstrings.
“UK Accident statistics for 2000 to 2002 show a 65% increase in accidents involving children’s clothing.”
What Safety Marks can I Look for on Clothes?
As children's clothing has been identified as a high-risk area, nightwear for children under 13 must meet specific flammability and clothing label requirements:- Manufactures of pyjamas, baby's garments and cotton terry towelling bathrobes, who choose to meet the flammability requirements of the Nightwear (Safety) Regulations 1985, must include a label with the wording 'LOW FLAMMABILITY TO BS 5722' or 'KEEP AWAY FROM FIRE'.
- Pyjamas, baby's garments and cotton terry towelling bathrobes which are not flame resistant must include a label with the wording 'KEEP AWAY FROM FIRE'
- Please note, however, that a label, which reads 'LOW FLAMMABILITY' does not indicate a completely flameproof garment, so all clothing should be kept away from fire.
- You should follow the washing instructions on flame-resistant garments, which include not washing them at more than 50°C and checking the suitability of your washing agent as this may affect the flame resistance of the fabric.
After researching health and safety within childrenswear this has opened my eyes and made more aware of the legislations and also all of the small details that you need to think about when designing childrenswear such as fastenings.
