Answer :
Final answer:
The standard safety specification for drawstrings on children's upper outerwear is ASTM F1816. This specification addresses safety and performance requirements to minimize strangulation or entanglement risks associated with drawstrings in children's clothing. The correct option is A .
Explanation:
The question involves identifying the standard safety specification for drawstrings on children's upper outerwear. Among the options provided, (a) ASTM F1816, (b) ASTM F1951, (c) ASTM F2373, and (d) ASTM F2765, the correct answer is (a) ASTM F1816. This standard, developed by ASTM International, addresses the safety and performance specifications to prevent the risk of strangulation or entanglement injuries associated with the drawstrings in children's clothing. Notably, this specification applies specifically to upper outerwear in sizes 2T through 16, catering to children roughly between the ages of 2 to 12 years.
Understanding the importance of this standard involves recognizing the potential hazards that loose or long drawstrings can present. Drawstrings on the hood and neck area of outerwear, for example, can become entangled in playground equipment, doors, or vehicles, posing serious risks. As such, ASTM F1816 provides guidelines for the length, attachment, and finish of drawstrings, among other safety features, to mitigate these hazards. For example, it restricts the length of drawstrings and requires that they are not easily accessible from the outside to prevent catching. These guidelines ensure that manufacturers adhere to a unified safety standard, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the overall safety of children's clothing.