SGS : Canada Amends the Sizing Requirement Designed for Infant Sleepwear

SAFEGUARDS | Softlines NO. 101/17

In May 2017, Health Canada revised its policy on infant sleepwear sizing to align with US requirements. The policy change is effective immediately.

In Canada, sleepwear designed for infants weighing up to 7 kg is defined as tight-fitting sleepwear and is regulated under Section 2 of the Children's Sleepwear Regulations (SOR/2016-169) under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act. When tested in accordance with the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) standard CAN/CGSB-4.2 No. 27.5, entitled Textile Test Methods: Flame Resistance - 45° Angle Test - One-Second Flame Impingement, it must have a time of flame spread of more than seven seconds.

The Children's Sleepwear: Flammability Requirement Guidelines (2016), specify that the maximum chest circumference for infant sleepwear is 508 mm. Sleepwear designed for infants up to 7 kg with a chest circumference greater than 508 mm may be subject to the requirements for loose-fitting sleepwear for children over 7 kg. Health Canada is amending its policy for sleepwear designed for infants weighing up to 7 kg and will be incorporated into the new version of their guidelines as follows:

For sleepwear to be considered sleepwear designed for infants weighing up to 7 kg, it must have

• a chest circumference that is less than or equal to 508 mm; and
• a label stating in months the age of the child for whom it is intended; the age must be 9 months or younger.

The amended policy which harmonizes the Canadian requirement for infant sleepwear with that of the U.S. Children's Sleepwear Regulations (16 C.F.R. Parts 1615) with respect to infant sizing is effective immediately.

SGS Global Softlines has an extensive network of over 40 laboratories worldwide, with a strong team of committed professionals from multi-disciplinary backgrounds. Our internationally accredited state-of-the-art testing laboratories offer a comprehensive range of physical, chemical and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. We help your company ensure quality, performance and compliance with international, industrial and regulatory standards worldwide. Discover more at www.sgs.com/softlines.

For enquiries, please contact:

Louann SpiritoDirector Technical Support, Softlines
t: +1 973 461 7919

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