CHILDREN'S SLEEPWEAR CONTROVERSY: DATA FROM A BURN UNIT

Abstract

Recent publicity about the possible carcinogenicity of “TRIS,” used in some flame-resistant children's sleepwear, questions the value of the July, 1973, federal regulations regarding the flammability of children's sleepwear, sizes 0-6x. In a 3-½ year period (Jan.'70-June'73), 29 children under 7 years of age were treated at the SBI for injuries sustained by the ignition of their sleepwear in ways other than in house fires; during a later period of identical length (July'73-Dec.'76), 11 children were treated for injuries sustained in this manner. (Total acute admissions, earlier period: 309; later period: 317.) Most accidents involved momentary contact with an ignition source: stoves (18), matches/cigarette lighters (15), candles (3), heaters (2), other (2). The behavior of children in these situations was contrary to those which would minimize harm. Most children ran, the result being flame spread and more extensive burns. Children's sleepwear, sizes 7-14, has been regulated in Massachusetts since Dec.'73. From 1970-1973, there were 11 non-house fire sleepwear admissions of children, ages 7-14; from 1974-1976, there were 5. The decline in such sleepwear admissions for all ages is marked: 1974=10 cases; 1975=3 cases; 1976=1 case. Of these cases, only one (1976) involved flame-resistant pajamas; that patient received a comparatively small burn. Further, three children who received their burns in night-time house fires demonstrated the considerable protective characteristics of flame-resistant sleepwear.