In the News: March 22, 2021

Two Tip-Overs In A Week Highlight Continued Threat Of Unstable Furniture
March 17, 2021, Consumer Reports
The incidents, including one death, occurred as Congress considers the “STURDY” Act, a bill meant to make furniture safer. Between 2000 and 2019, 351 people died from tip-overs involving furniture, according to a recent report from the CPSC.

Kids’ ER Visits For Swallowed Magnets Soared After U.S. Lifted Sales Ban
March 18, 2021, Health Day
Calls to U.S. poison centers about incidents involving children and high-powered magnets surged more than 400% after a court overturned a ban on the magnets, according to a new study from Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio.

Why Experience-Led Companies Win (Video Quick Take)
March 17, 2021, Harvard Business Review
What we uncovered with the research is we actually think we’re entering an era of a renaissance of sorts, an experienced renaissance. And in this era, a new category of leadership will emerge.

Child Dies After Accident With Peloton Treadmill
March 18, 2021, The Washington Post
Peloton says a child died after an accident with a company treadmill. Peloton did not give many details, but said they know of “only a small handful of incidents” where a child was hurt involving its treadmills. The CPSC is investigating.

Duracell Joins With Pediatric Group To Promote Lithium Coin Battery Safety
March 16, 2021, KULR8.com
Duracell announced that it is teaming up with The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to help educate parents and caregivers about the importance of lithium coin battery safety to help prevent accidental ingestions.

Will US Lawmakers Rein In Marketplace Counterfeits?
March 16, 2021, Retail Dive
Holding intellectual property rights violators accountable and ensuring that American innovators and creators have a full and fair opportunity is critical for both physical and online markets. This, according to Robert Lighthizer, U.S. Trade Representative.

CPSC: Keep Your Family Safe As dangerous Storms Spread Across Much Of The Country
March 17, 2021, cpsc.gov
As dangerous winter weather moves across the United States, including blizzards in Western states, tornadoes in Southern states and severe weather in Gulf states, the CPSC is warning consumers to protect themselves against carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. Consumers need to be especially careful during a loss of electrical power. Many use portable generators and other devices for sources of power and heat, exposing themselves to increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and fire.

Nothing Personal, But Ethical AI Is Our Strongest Weapon In Data Privacy Wars
March 18, 2021, Forbes
Scary ‘surveillance society’ headlines that vilify artificial intelligence (AI) distract from this technology’s equally powerful ability to protect our personal data. Researchers are exploring how AI-fueled anonymization tools can keep data models intact and in compliance with both government regulations and consumer expectations for trusted business. The simple truth about AI is that when used responsibly, it doesn’t have to force a costly bargain between personalization and privacy.

March 2021: Wrap Up Of Federal And State Chemical Regulatory Developments
March 2021, JD Supra

Toddler ‘Burned’ When Laundry Capsule Bursts
March 17, 2021, The Daily Mail
The mom said she turned her back for a split-second when the curious toddler picked up an ‘inviting’ multicolored pod, which she believes he mistook for a ‘squeezy toy’. The pod burst and the blue liquid covered his face and body.

If You Take This Medication: The CPSC Has A New Warning For You
March 18, 2021, Best Life
The CPSC announced that manufacturer Genentech had recalled approximately 14,000 units of prescription drug Evrysdi. The medication, used to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in children and adults, was packed in such a way that the bottles can leak and may lead to inadvertent exposure to the skin or eyes.

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