CPSC Revises Phthalates Test Method: Test Component Parts (cont.)
The CPSC staff feels that this new policy would simplify the testing process, eliminate the unnecessary testing of products that do not contain phthalates, reduce the cost of testing, and harmonize the CPSIA phthalates regulations with those enforced by the European Commission and by the State of California. Further, the CPSC feels that the new policy would result in a "more stringent and more health-protective" regulation.
In conjunction with this new policy statement, the CPSC staff has prepared a revised test method based on testing only the plasticized component parts. The new test method, CPSC-CH-C1001-09.2, Standard Operating Procedure for Determination of Phthalates, is dated July 13, 2009. At the time of the publication of this News Alert, the text of the new method was not yet available for viewing on the CPSC website.
Click here to read the new CPSC Policy Statement Regarding Testing of Component Parts.
Examples of materials that may contain phthalates and would require testing are:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and related polymers, such as polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) and polyvinyl acetate (PVA)--these materials should always be tested;
- Soft or flexible plastics, except polyolefins;
- Soft or flexible rubber, except silicone rubber and natural latex;
- Foam rubber or foam plastic, such as polyurethane (PU);
- Surface coatings, non-slip coatings, finishes, decals, and printed designs;
- Elastic materials on apparel, such as sleepwear;
- Adhesives and sealants; and
- Electrical insulation.
Examples of materials that do not normally contain phthalates and, therefore, might not require testing or certification are:
- Unfinished metal;
- Natural wood, except for coatings and adhesives added to wood;
- Textiles made from natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, except for printed decorations, waterproof coatings or other surface treatments, back coatings, and elastic materials (especially sleepwear);
- Textiles made from common synthetic fibers, such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon, except for printed decorations, waterproof coatings or other surface treatments, and elastic materials—however, any textiles containing PVC or related polymers must be tested;
- Polyethylene and polypropylene (polyolefins);
- Silicone rubber and natural latex; and
- Mineral products such as play sand, glass, and crystal.