In the News: May 24, 2021

Peloton Releases A Software Fix For Its Recalled Treadmills
May 19, 2021, CNN
Peloton is rolling out a software fix for its Tread and Tread+ treadmills after a massive recall. Customers can now access a new “Tread Lock” feature that requires a four-digit code before using the treadmill and locks the machine after 45 seconds of inactivity outside of a class. Peloton states on the feature’s support page that users will “be required to set up Tread Lock” following an automatic software upgrade. The fix applies to both of Peloton’s treadmills: The Tread+ and the Tread.

The Product Safety Early-Warning System That Seldom Sounds
May 21, 2021, ConsumerReports
Under a federal law companies must notify the CPSC when lawsuits alleging serious injury or death have been brought against their products. Known as Section 37, it was devised to be a “safety net,” capturing hazards that may not be reported to the government. But a CR investigation found Section 37 is broken.

Ransomware Attacks Are Spiking. Is Your Company Prepared?
May 20, 2021, Harvard Business Review
These are unprecedented times in the world of cybersecurity, with ransomware attacks up 150% in 2020 and growing faster in 2021. With preparation, cybersecurity and a plan, your company will reduce risk and be prepared to deal with the unthinkable.

Sedgwick Report: Product Recalls Expected To Soar Post Pandemic, Enforcement Set To Intensify
May 19, 2021, Sedgwick/PRnewswire
According to Sedgwick brand protection latest U.S. product recall index report, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to keep inspections and recall incidents below record levels. However, as the world begins to re-open and with the prospect of new regulations ahead, an upsurge in recalls should be expected. The new report reveals the latest recall data, trends and predictions businesses need to know to prepare for the increasingly aggressive and complex regulatory environment that risk managers are forecasting for all industries in 2021.

UK Safety Alert Issued For Small High-Powered Magnetic Products
May 19, 2021, OPSS UK.gov
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), the UK’s national product safety regulator, has issued a Safety Alert to warn of the risk of serious injury and death from swallowing small high-powered magnets. The OPSS Safety Alert follows increasing reports of injuries from ingestion of magnets, particularly among children and young people. OPSS has identified a particular hazard arising from the use of high-powered magnets in products where the magnets can be swallowed.

How 7 ‘Smart Toys’ Are Protecting Kids’ Data And Safety
May 18, 2021, World Economic Forum
Kids today have a chance to engage with their toys in ways never imaged before. As children are more connected to the internet, parents and guardians need to understand the capabilities of such devices and how they should be secured.

HR Leaders Share 14 In-Demand Skills Employers Want In 2021
May 20, 2021, Forbes
Every business is only as good as its employees. That’s why a good hiring strategy that focuses on in-demand skills is essential to a company’s success. Human resources teams often have unique insight into hiring trends that help their organization find the right talent, including the skill sets employers need to succeed in 2021 and beyond.

Governor Scott Signs First-In-Nation Restrictions On Toxic PFAS Chemicals
May 20, 2021, Vermont Biz
Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed into law a nation-leading bill that restricts the sale of consumer products that contain toxic chemicals known as PFAS. The bill bans PFAS chemicals from firefighting foam, food packaging, ski wax, and carpets, rugs and stain-resistant treatments. S20 was supported by Vermont environmental advocates, firefighters, educators, public health experts, children’s advocates.

Don’t Panic: How To Save Gasoline Safely
May 20, 2021, Wall Street Call
Since the Colonial Pipeline closure, some people have saved gasoline in the worst ways ever. Experts at encourage people to stop filling unsafe items with fuel and to invest in rugged, safe fuel containers that meet ASTM and CPSC minimum standards.

Job Opening: Product Quality Manager 1 – non-food – for regional retail leader

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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