CPSC Adopts Third-party Testing and Certification Rules for Children’s Products
October 24, 2011
Details
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has approved new independent third-party product testing rules requiring periodic testing of children's products designed for children age 12 and under, to ensure continued compliance with U.S. product safety standards as required by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. The ruling applies to domestic manufacturers, importers and private labelers.
To ensure continued compliance, the Commission has adopted a framework with the purpose of establishing protocols and standards for ensuring continued periodic third-party testing. Testing intervals may not exceed one year –although other testing plans may be established.
The testing and certification rule will go into effect 15 months after it is published in the Federal Register. Children's products that comply with the law may be labeled, "Meets CPSC Safety Requirements." Labeling is voluntary.
Why It Matters
If there is a material change to the product, such as changes in the product design, manufacturing process, or the source of component parts, firms must re-test and re-certify that the product complies with federal safety standards. Firms must also keep records on the testing and certification of their children's products.
In an effort to reduce the burden, the CPSC voted (3-2) to approve a rule allowing firms to use component part and finished product testing conducted by their suppliers, effective 30 days after the rule is published.
The Commission also voted (5-0) to move forward with a notice of proposed rulemaking allowing firms to use product samples that are known to be representative of all the product manufactured or imported since their last periodic or certification test. Manufacturers would be required to document their testing and keep those records.
How UL-STR Can Help
UL-STR is registered with the CPSC as an accredited laboratory for CPSIA third-party testing, and can assist you with the testing and certification requirements under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. Our state-of-the-art facilities have the ability to customize testing programs to meet your specific performance criteria. UL-STR's chemical and analytical services include testing for phthalates, lead, cadmium, heavy metals, and toxins.
To learn more about how UL-STR can help you achieve the highest standards of toy and children's product safety and quality, submit the short form below. A UL-STR representative will follow up with you soon.