Tech Watch: ASTM Publishes Updated Standard for Clothing Storage Units

On 6 February 2023, ASTM International released ASTM F2057-23, the updated version of the voluntary stability standard for clothing storage units.

Under the Stop Tip-overs of Unstable, Risky Dressers on Youth Act (“STURDY Act”), the CPSC will now have 90 days to determine whether to adopt the updated ASTM F2057 standard in whole or in parts and promulgate a final consumer product safety rule that meets the requirements of the STURDY Act.  

The STURDY Act requires the CPSC to adopt a new rule to protect children from tip-over-related death or injury with:

• tests that simulate the weight of children up to 60 pounds;
• objective, repeatable, reproducible, and measurable tests or series of tests that simulate real-world use and account for impacts on clothing storage unit stability that may result from placement on carpeted surfaces, drawers with items in them, multiple open drawers, and dynamic force;
• testing of all clothing storage units, including those 27 inches and above in height; and
• warning requirements based on ASTM 14 F2057–19, or its successor at the time of enactment, provided that the CPSC may strengthen the warning requirements of ASTM F2057–19, or its successor, if reasonably necessary to protect children from tip-over-related death or injury.

The new ASTM F2057-23 is intended to reduce injuries and deaths of children from hazards associated with tip-over of clothing storage units, including but not limited to chests, chests of drawers, drawer chests, bureaus, and dressers.

If the CPSC determines that ASTM F2057-23 meets the requirements of the STURDY Act and promulgates a final consumer product safety rule, then the new clothing storage unit safety rule will go into effect 120 days after the day of the promulgation or such a later date as the CPSC determines appropriate.