CPSC Updates Safety Standard for Portable Hook-On Chairs

SG 051/26

US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issues direct final rule updating the federal safety standard in 16 CFR part 1233 for portable hook-on chairs.

In March 2026, the CPSC published a direct final rule revising the federal safety standard for portable hook-on chairs. The rule updates 16 CFR part 1233 by replacing ASTM F1235-18 with ASTM F1235-25. ASTM describes portable hook-on chairs as usually legless seats supported solely by a table or similar surface, with the child positioned so the table surface can be used as a feeding surface.

What does the regulation require?

CPSC issued the update under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) section 104 process for durable infant or toddler products when an incorporated ASTM standard is revised. The updated standard introduces new requirements related to battery-powered features, including additional performance and marking requirements for batteries, battery compartments and AC adapters:

• Performance: Section 6.8 adds requirements for battery compartments to contain leaks, prevent charging of non-rechargeable batteries through design or circuitry and limit accessible surface temperatures to 160 °F (71 °C) without causing fire or leakage. Where an AC adapter is supplied, it must meet national safety standards and have an output below 30 VDC and 8 amps. Section 7.14 adds a peak temperature and battery leakage test for battery-powered functions operating at maximum intensity under controlled conditions
• Marking: Section 8.6 requires products with battery compartments to be permanently and clearly marked with battery specifications. If a non-replaceable battery is accessible using common tools, the product must indicate that the battery is not replaceable, either on the product or in the instructions. Section 9.4 adds cautionary statements for products using replaceable batteries, including instructions intended to reduce leakage and injury risks through proper storage, disposal and replacement practices

All other existing requirements, such as those relating to lead, phthalates, tracking labels and consumer registration, remain unchanged.

Who is impacted?

The rule affects manufacturers and importers responsible for ensuring the compliance of portable hook-on chairs regulated under section 104 of the CPSIA. Products that contain batteries, electronic features or AC adapters are most directly impacted, as they must comply with the newly added technical, labeling and testing provisions, although products without electronic components still come under its scope.

When does it apply?

The revised mandatory safety standard becomes effective on July 19, 2026.

The rule can be found by clicking the link below:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/30/2026-06080/safety-standard-for-portable-hook-on-chairs

A read-only copy of the standard is available in the ASTM reading room at https://www.astm.org/products-services/reading-room.html

Childcare equipment and children’s furniture must meet strict safety, quality and performance requirements. With our global network of experts and laboratories, we provide testing, inspection, risk assessment and technical documentation services. We also conduct factory and social audits to ensure supply chain compliance. Contact us to learn more, or visit our website. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.