Human Factors Considerations for High Chair and Stroller Child Restraints

Abstract

Falls from high chairs and strollers represent a major childhood hazard. While such products normally include some form of restraint system, their effectiveness may be limited. This research analyzed human factors causes of restraint system failures and recommended design and voluntary standards improvements. Product profiles were developed describing the range of product types, features, users, modes of use, child behaviors, adult caregiver behaviors, and characteristics of restraint failure incidents. Causal analyses then identified eleven primary incident scenarios involving restraint failure. These scenarios in turn were related to six fundamental movements. To the extent a product affords the opportunity for these movements, the effectiveness of the restraint system is reduced. Analyzing the problem in terms of movement affordances, a cross-cutting set of fundamental design issues emerged. These issues suggested a variety of design recommendations for specific product features including belts, seat compartments, crotch restraints, feeding trays, leg restraints, footholds, and barrier devices.