Children’s product requirements are changing substantially as of December 31, 2011. These will mandate the maximum: 1) lead content in accessible components; 2) lead levels in paint and surface coatings; and 3) inclusion of phthlates (chemicals making plastic items more flexible. Certain toy safety standards based on ASTM F963 will also become mandated. This is an uncertain time for manufacturers, importers, and foreign producers that are seeking the latest details on these changes. As a result of many small importers working together, there will also be an exemption from third-party testing requirements to ensure that the standards are met.
What was the best way to get this information out? A teleconference on December 10 for U.S. importers and developing-country producers was organized by the Fair Trade Federation, the Coalition of Small Batch Importers, and Sandler Trade LLC. Many thanks to Dean Woodward, Director of the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Office of Education, Global Outreach and the Small Business Ombudsman, for providing extensive information as well as follow-up slides (featured below).
The popular teleconference was recorded and is available for listening through the end of December at:
http://www.freeconference.com/Recordings/ConferenceRecording-11085579-376123.mp3
Key slides from the teleconference follow:
Previous webinars offered by the CPSC on these subjects can be found at:
1. For Small Batch Manufacturers and Importers: https://rcpt.yousendit.com/
2. For Children’s Toy Manufacturers: https://rcpt.yousendit.com/
For more information, please contact Marideth Sandler (sandler@sandlertrade.com or at 1.202.776.0650)
It’s hard to find educated people about this subject, however, you sound like you know what you’re talking
about! Thanks