In the News: November 24, 2014

Toys Lead EU in Recalls and Notifications
November 20, 2014, International Supermarket News
New survey shows impact of recent EU legislation cited for increased scrutiny of toy industry.  Amendments and updates to EU Toy Directive challenge company compliance programs

Packaging Not Among Priority Products for California’s Product Safety Regs…For Now
November 13, 2014, Packaging Digest
Though packaging is included in the list of consumer products subject to the state’s 2008 Green Chemistry Initiative, it is not on the list of 3 year Priority Product Work Plan. Seven consumer product categories are on the priority list: beauty and hygiene products, building products, household and office furnishings and furniture, cleaning products, clothing, fishing equipment, and office machine components.

Recall Roulette: Hazardous Recalled Product Still Up for Sale
November 20, 2014, ABC News
Reaching consumers with product recall information is a constant challenge to companies. The process is “hit or miss.” Retail stores do a good job in pulling product off shelves, but second hand stores and on-line retailers are active in selling recalled products

Australia Moves to Cut Red Tape on Chemical Risk Assessments
November 18, 2014, Cosmetic Design-Asia.com
Regulators will work with stakeholders to develop adoption of “trusted standards and assessments.” If they do, government will not add requirements for approval in Australia.

The (CPSC) Epidemiology Elephant in the Room
November 17, 2014, YouTube
Zen Magnet takes to social media in fight with CPSC on magnet ban. Challenges hospital data on reported injuries. Claims “thumbs up” for visibility on the Internet.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Sustainability
November 19, 2014, Environmental Leader
Survey of 400 business experts shows that supply chain risks tops the list of business concerns in 2014. A realistic risk assessment, and framework for understanding options and key decisions made are tools to manage the chain for maximum customer satisfaction and financial results.

Columnist: The Error in Takata’s Recall Resistance
November 19, 2014, CBS Moneywatch
The auto industry has better traceability due to registration data, yielding higher recall effectiveness rates than most consumer products. Since costs of repair can be high, columnist says “it can make financial sense for many companies to delay issuing a recall.” But brand integrity and sales can take a hit.

Q3 Recall Survey Reveals Global Recall Trends
Index on segments shows CPSC recalls involved over 12 million units in Q3. Sports and recreation equipment and home furnishings lead category contributors. At FDA, medical devices are leading category with over half recalls involving U.S. and at least one other country.

Global: How to Protect Brand Reputation and Sales from the Risks Associated with a Product Recall
November 17, 2014, Lexicology
Expansion of supply chain and growth of regulatory powers pose ongoing challenge to industry and importers. Preparation can help protect company by reducing risk in producing countries.

Posted in Chemical Hazards, Children's Products, Global Developments, Innovation, Organizational Development, Product Liability, Product Safety Rules, Product Standards, Risk Assessment, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Uncategorized