In the New: November 30, 2020

Rare CPSC Penalty Referral To DOJ May Signal A More Aggressive Agency
November 21, 2020, National Law Review
In a rare move, the CPSC has asked the Department of Justice to pursue and potentially litigate a civil penalty matter. In an even rarer move, the CPSC has publicly disclosed the request.

Presidential Election Portends Changes At The Nation’s Leading Product Safety Agency
November 20, 2020, JDSupra
The transition to a new administration will eventually change the face of the CPSC for years to come. The pandemic, the issue of a stalled appointment of a new chairman and pending replacement of retiring Commissioners raise questions on the Commission’s direction.

The Harmful Chemical Lurking In Your Childrens’ Toys
November 23, 2020, New York Times
A Duke University scientist tracks the dangers of flame retardants, meant to protect children, and why manufacturers cannot seem to stop using them.

The Case For Asking Sensitive Questions
November 24, 2020, Harvard Business Review
“How much money do you make?” We often avoid asking questions that feel too sensitive or personal. But avoiding these potentially awkward conversations comes at a cost: When negotiating a salary or choosing where to live.

New Study: More Kids Injured By Tiny Magnets After Ban Lifted
November 24, 2020, U.S. News & World Report
Small, powerful magnets are causing an alarming number of serious injuries in the U.S., new research warns. When these small magnets are swallowed, the potential for serious injury is high, noted study lead author Dr. Michael Flaherty, a physician at MassGeneral Hospital for Children.

50K Unsafe Toys Destroyed; Experts Warn Of Uncertified Items
November 23, 2020, The Irish Sun
With more Irish consumers shopping on-line this year, the CCPC is highlighting the risks of poor quality, unsafe or non-compliant products. Products can be dangerous, particularly childrens’ toys or gifts.

‘Tis The Season To Be Safe: Top Tips For Your Family During COVID-19
November 20, 2020, WFMZ-TV
The CPSC releases the latest data for injuries and deaths related to toys, holiday decorating and cooking; announces 2020 toy recalls.

E-Commerce Retailers In Australia Voluntarily Pledge To Improve Product Safety Online
November 22, 2020, ZDNet
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recently announced that four of Australia’s e-commerce businesses have voluntarily committed to protecting consumers from unsafe goods sold online after signing the Australian Product Safety Pledge.

CPSC Issues COVID-19 Consumer Products Guidance, Further Muddying The Regulatory Waters And Increasing Scrutiny Of COVID-19 Products
November 24, 2020, National Law Review
In late October, the CPSC issued guidance asserting that certain consumer protection rules within its jurisdiction apply to PPE, and reminding consumers of the CPSC laws that apply to cleaning/disinfectant products. The CPSC commissioners disagree about the import or official applicability of the COVID guidance.

Courts Being Used To Challenge The Efficacy Of Product Recalls
November 24, 2020, JDSupra
Consumer product companies are facing a new wave of legal challenges related to recall programs negotiated with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

CDC To Shorten Length Of Quarantine For Those Exposed To COVID-19
November 24, 2020, NBC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is finalizing plans to shorten the recommended length of quarantine for those exposed to Covid-19.

Honoring Our Heroes
SPSP Website
SPSP makes a permanent home for the salute poster at its website.

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