SECTION 748.3369. What are the requirements for bunk beds?

(a) A bunk bed must only consist of double-deck beds.

(b) A child who is under six years old, non-ambulatory, or subject to seizures or other medical or physical problems who may require greater caregiver supervision and caregiver access must not use a top bunk bed.

(c) A bunk bed must allow enough space in between beds and the ceiling to allow a child to sit up in bed.

(d) A bunk bed must be equipped with a securely attached ladder capable of supporting the child using the bed and an employee.

(e) A bunk bed that is more than 30 inches above the floor must be equipped with securely attached safety bedrails along the lengths of the bed on each side with a means to allow a child to get in and out of bed. Bunk beds securely attached to a wall may use the wall as one of the required guardrails. The top of safety guardrails must be at least five inches above the top of the mattress. The bed rails and the mattress supports under the mattress must not be an entrapment hazard.

(f) Openings in guardrails or between ladder rungs must not have openings that can entrap a child's body or body part that has penetrated the opening. Openings must measure less than 3 1/2 inches or more than nine inches to prevent a child's body or body part from being entrapped.

(g) A bunk bed must be spaced to provide a walk space on at least one side and one end of each bed.

Source Note: The provisions of this §748.3369 adopted to be effective January 1, 2007, 31 TexReg 7377; transferred effective March 9, 2018, as published in the Texas Register February 16, 2018, 43 TexReg 909