CPSC Issues New Rules Governing Testing And Certification Of Children’s Products

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has approved new regulations regarding the independent third-party testing of children’s products. The new rules a specify periodic testing requirements and component part testing rules for domestic manufacturers, importers and private labelers, requiring them to test and certify that their children’s products comply with safety standards set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).

Periodic testing, as required by the CPSC’s regulations, ensures continued compliance to product safety rules. Should a material change be made to the product—changes to the product design, manufacturing process or the source of component parts—firms will have to re-test and certify it remains in compliance with federal safety standards. Firms are required to keep records of all testing and certifications for their children’s products. To ease the burden the regulations place on affected companies, the CPSC has approved a rule allowing the use of tests on components and finished products provided by their suppliers.

These rules governing testing and certification go into effect 15 months after publication in the Federal Register. Products in compliance with the law may be labeled “Meets CPSC Safety Requirements.” These regulations will not have any impact on existing testing obligations—all manufacturers, importers and suppliers of children’s products are required to conduct third party testing for lead in substrate, inks and surface coatings by January 1, 2012.

To read more about the CPSC’s ruling, click here.