Bunk beds

Bunk beds are sleeping platforms raised high off the ground that usually consist of one or two beds. They are designed for adults or children to use and often come with a ladder. Although the suitable minimum age to use a bunk bed can vary greatly depending on a child's maturity and development, using the upper bed or a raised bed is generally not recommended for children under nine years old and definitely not recommended for children under six years old.

Serious injuries can occur if the bunk bed is poorly made or is used inappropriately. Children can suffer:

• concussions and fractures if they fall from a raised/upper bed or while trying to climb up or down—falls are the most common source of injury and can be fatal
• strangulation or accidental hanging if children have their head or neck caught between gaps in and around the bunk bed, or if clothing is snagged on parts of the bed that stick out (protrusions)
• injuries to their heads, arms and legs if these become trapped within gaps in the bunk bed structure.