Playpens

When buying a new or used playpen, it is important to be aware of the Regulations set in place by Health Canada's Hazardous Products Act. Make sure the sides are made of mosquito-type netting. If the mesh is larger, buttons or hooks on clothing could get caught resulting in strangulation. Also, sides must be firm and sturdy and should be checked regularly for damage.

Health Canada recommends to never leave an infant in a drop-sided playpen with the side down; the infant can roll into the space between the mattress and the mesh side and suffocate. Supervise children at all times while they are in a playpen.

You can read more about general safety issues concerning playpens in these publications:

• Is Your Child Safe? - Playpens
• Health Canada advises parents and caregivers to verify the safety and security of playpens
• Health Canada Warnings/Advisories - Playpens present potential strangulation hazard
• Facts for Garage Sale Vendors
  

Information for industry:

• Test method for playpens
• Information to Dealers of Second-hand Children's Products - Playpens
• Quick reference guide to the Hazardous Products Act for Manufacturers, Importers, Distributors, and Retailers - Playpens [temporarily unavailable]
• Playpens Regulations (C.R.C., c. 932)