What is the CPSC and what do they do?
CPSC is an abbreviation for the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The CPSC is an official government agency which ensures that goods pose as minimal risk of injury, property damage or death as possible prior to their distribution to the public. According to the About CPSC page on www.cpsc.gov:
“CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 40 years." ( https://www.cpsc.gov/About-CPSC/; 2018)
Where can I view the most recent statements from the CPSC?
The most recent policies, statements and directives are available on the CPSC website. Visit the News Releases section of the CPSC website for the latest from their newsroom.
Where can I view or search recalls?
All recalls and recall lawsuits are available on the CPSC website.
What is CPSIA?
The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) is a regulation that was implemented in 2008 which set standards of safety for nearly all children’s products. According to this act, the majority of children’s products must:
- Comply with all applicable children’s product safety rule.
- Are tested for compliance by a CPSC-accepted laboratory.
- Have a written Children’s Product Certification (issued by the manufacturer or importer) that provides evidence of the product’s compliance.
- Have permanent tracking information affixed to the product and its packaging.