Note: Also see this article “Can I remove the factory standard padded accessories from my client’s seat in rearward facing?” OR “Do I need to remove the factory padded inserts for a Forward Facing safety seat?“

An example risk we’ve seen before is an aftermarket head pillow, with a liner running down the spine actually bunching up behind the child and resulting in spinal damage in an accident – so as innocent as it could be to leave a head pillow, liner or lumbar support inside a safety seat during an install, the ramifications could be massive!

What should you do when a client brings one in?

Just a couple of thoughts to start with;

• The ACRI Network and it’s members cannot and should not control what a client does – we live in a democracy
• The client needs to be made aware of the potential dangers/risks, and if they choose to use an aftermarket accessory that is not tested to Australian Standards with that particular seat/situation then that is up to them but the ACRI Network only recommends to comply with the manufacturers directions.
• It’s best practice for you to log this discussion, on the same logging sheet/software you utilise to attain the clients signature – just simply and directly, for example “Noted client using aftermarket liner, made aware that it is not recommended by manufacturer.”

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