Table Corner Safety

Table corners can pose as a safety hazard for children and their families.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year approximately 2,800 children between the ages of one and 14 die from unintentional injuries and accidents. Common household furniture items can pose a threat to children and their families; therefore being aware of furniture safety issues is paramount. Table corners are often equipped with sharp edges that can increase one’s chances of becoming injured. Being informed of specific safety issues with table corners will help keep your dining area safe and enjoyable.

The Importance of Table Corner Safety

Dining rooms can be full of bustle and fast activity; therefore it is essential to ensure that all pieces of furniture are safe and secure. Tables that feature sharp corners can pose an injury risk to children and other family members.

Types of Injury

There are many injuries that can be received from a table’s corner. Cuts, bruises and punctures of the skin are just some of the injuries that can be received if you come in contact with a sharp corner. Other table corners can cause head injuries when reaching under the table, so being aware of how far the corner extends is extremely important.

Table Edge Bumpers

Table edge bumpers can be purchased to lessen the risks of injuries when using a table. Table edge bumpers come in a variety of designs that include brackets or protective liners. Soft plastic brackets can be placed on each edge of the table to decrease the possibility of children and adults bumping into the table’s corner. Protective liners are usually made out of soft, padded material that stretches all around the table’s edge. Protective liners are designed especially for younger children.

Supervision and Education

It is imperative that children are supervised at all times when in the presence of a dining room table. Making sure that they use caution when walking or sitting near table corners can help reduce injuries or accidents. Educating children about the dangers of table corners and types of accidents that can be experienced is also helpful in keeping the dining area safe.

Reducing Hazards

Finding an appropriate location for your dining room table can help lessen the occurrences of injuries and accidents. Ensure that your table has adequate room around its perimeter so that diners do not have to squeeze by or touch the table corners. When using the dining room table, discourage diners from placing their chairs in front of a table corner. Remember that the risk of accidents and injuries will increase when in the direct vicinity of a table corner.

References

• Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford: Accident Statistics
• Baby Partner: Babyproofing your Living and Dining Room