MOT Your Buggy or Pushchair

A guide for parents on safety issues associated with children's buggies and pushchairs.

Buying a pushchair

• all new and second hand buggies must comply with the British Standard
• look for the BS mark on the product
• the standard says pushchairs must be safe, strong and secure.
• choose a pushchair suited to your needs
• fold flat types are more robust than compact lightweight models, which are better for light use
• if buying second hand:
  • check wheels, harness, locking devices, brakes and tubes and linkages very carefully
  • look carefully for the BS number
  • examine the pushchair for signs of wear and tear
  • check for signs of abuse such as missing items like buckles and rivets
  • if the instructions are not available, write to the manufacturer asking for a new copy

Caring for your pushchair

This is particularly important. Your child’s safety could depend on this.

• follow the instructions for use
• never force the locking mechanism
• learn how to adjust the fit of the harness, so that the child is always secure
• do not load it with shopping bags. This can distort the frame and/ or cause the buggy to topple
• approach steps with care and avoid bumping the buggy up or down stairs.