toy chest safety issues?

[Jim K]

I'm getting ready to start on a toy chest for the son of a friend at work and need some advice. I don't need plans, I'm doing that myself. I'm wondering about the safety issues involved. Being an old curmudgeonly bachelor, I have zip experience with kids (and don't want any, thank you). Here's the list of issues I'm looking at now:

- rounded edges

- nothing sharp (locks, screws, etc.)

- polyurethane coating (or other non-toxic stuff)

- slow dropping top supports (whatever the real name - they keep the top from slamming down.

-ventilation

-non-auto latching doors

-relatively well balanced so it doesn't tip

Anything else to help keep the little demons from doing theirselves a michief?

I did some google searching and came up with a bunch of bits and pieces, but would like to get it in all one posting.

Thanks

[Jeff]

Hi Jim -

The toy box I bought (ashamed to say) for my son ("sons" as of a few weeks ago) has a feature that helps prevent smashed fingers. Each side, including front and back, is shaped so that all but around 2 inches of each corner is about 3/4" lower than the lid. (Don't know if I'm explaining that very well.) This can make it nearly impossible to smash fingers except at the corners. Of course the overall design of your box will have to accommodate this feature, esthetically and otherwise. The lid on ours is flat and slightly oversized relative to the opening.

Have fun.

Jeff

[Tom]

You got it all. Not sure about poly being non-toxic, but they gotta learn somehow. Tom Jim K wrote:>issues I'm looking at now;>

Someday, it'll all be over....