Bicycle helmets – revised Standard available
The Standard for Bicycle helmets, AS/NZS 2063:2008, has been revised. The Standard specifies construction requirements, and the basic performance requirements, for lightweight protective helmets intended to mitigate the adverse effects of a blow to the head.
The revised Standard supersedes AS/NZS 2063:1996 and covers:
- impact energy attenuation
- helmet stability
- load distribution
- strength and effectiveness of the retention system and its attachment points
- peripheral vision clearance.
New solaria Standard provides greater protection to consumers
A revised Standard for the operation and management of solaria has been published recommending the maximum UV intensity for sunbeds is cut by 40 per cent.
The Standard also, for the first time, restricts the use of sunbeds to people aged 18 and over and requests all operators to warn clients that there is evidence of increased risk of radiation from tanning units contributing to skin cancer and photo-ageing. Solaria for cosmetic purposes, AS/NZS 2635:2008, was revised following concerns from health groups and the community about the increased risks to users of sun-tanning appliances.
The new Standard strongly recommends solaria operators take greater responsibility to ensure the solaria use is controlled – by managing tanning sessions according to the user’s skin type, and the number of prior sessions the user has had. Operators are also asked to ensure clients complete skin type assessment forms to assist operators determine recommended ultra violet (UV ...read more [opens in new window]
Children's nightwear – Standards Australia proposal to include New Zealand-only Amendment A into AS/NZS 1249
Standards New Zealand published Amendment A to Children's nightwear and limited daywear having reduced fire hazard, AS/NZS 1249:2003, in May 2008. Standards Australia is now proposing to adopt Amendment A and include it in AS/NZS 1249. Standards Australia is also aware of other possible changes needed to the Standard, such as:
- change to the required grey scale for labelling
- reduced fabric needed for testing flame spread
- changes to clause 1.3 Trims on composite materials
- changes to update the currency and relevance of referenced international Standards.
Safety first – Consumer New Zealand guide to buying second-hand cots, highchairs, children’s car seats and strollers
This article was supplied by Consumer New Zealand as published in the February 2009 issue of Consumer Magazine. For more information and subscription options, visit consumer.org.nz.
Product safety is the most important consideration when buying kids' products. But checking out high chairs, cots, strollers and child car restraints is tricky, especially when buying second-hand. Use our guide about what to look for.
Small children have little understanding of danger and can be at risk from a range of hazards if left unattended. The most serious risks from children's furniture are:
- Falls – the most common type of accident involving cots or highchairs.
- Strangulation – if clothing is caught or the head is trapped.
- Choking – on small parts or decorations that may come loose.
And that's not to mention getting fingers or limbs trapped in small gaps and cuts ...read more [opens in new window]
NEW AMENDMENT AVAILABLE
Amendment 2 to AS/NZS ISO 8124.1:2002 Safety of toys – Safety aspects related to mechanical and physical properties
Amendment applies to Appendix ZZ.
Download this amendment (free)
(Note that a charge applies for hard copies of amendments.)
DRAFT STANDARD AVAILABLE NOW FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
DR AS/NZS 2088 CP Prams and strollers – Safety requirements (Revision of AS/NZS 2088:2000)
Specifies materials, construction, performance, and labelling requirements for prams, strollers, and their accessories. Public comment on this draft closes on 6 April 2009.
Download this draft from our website.