U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to investigate 13 companies about exploding hoverboards
January 21, 2016, cbsnews.com
The CPSC is now investigating fire-prone hoverboards. The “priority investigation” will result in the agency “devoting the staff time and resources necessary to find the root causes of the fire.” Additionally, 13 companies are under investigation for their activities in building and marketing of hoverboards, including the display of UL marks on their products or packaging “which doesn’t necessarily mean they’re safe, if some of the internal components are certified,” according to a statement by CPSC Chairman Elliot Kaye. He clarifies the parameters of UL marks displayed on hoverboard products.
After safety issues, Amazon begins offering refunds on hoverboards
January 21, 2016, hereandnow.wbur.org
The on-line retail giant decided to provide full refunds on any hoverboards that it sold in the U.S. or Canada. The move comes after a series of well-publicized fires believed to be caused by the product’s lithium-ion batteries. The company’s decision was praised by CPSC Chairman Elliot Kaye, who encouraged other retailers and manufacturers to consider a similar action.
Firms proliferate to prevent concussions but evidence lags
January 24, 2016, The Inquirer
Well-publicized events involving professional athletes, along with a federal lawsuit, and a Hollywood movie now in the theaters have spurred interest in concussions—and set off a wave of business activity and new products. Companies are promoting head bands, mouth guards, helmet padding and skull caps to try to protect athletes’ heads during impact. The CPSC’s chairman is “concerned” about false company claims, and warned parents with the message “a product will not solve your problem.”
When the water turned brown
January 24, 2016, The New York Times
A pediatrician last September announced at a public meeting how concerned she was about the water in Flint, Michigan. Her analysis showed an alarming increase in lead levels from the previous year when the city had changed its source of supply for financial reasons. Thus the curtain was lifted on the decisions and inaction of local, state, and federal officials who had insisted all along that the water was safe for residents to drink. The reporting is a detailed account of this national tragedy.
U.S. Science Policy Outlook 2016
January 18, 2016, Chemical and Engineering News
While the 2016 presidential campaign will be a distraction to Washington political and government leaders, the lack of action on Capital Hill won’t forestall all action in D.C. Reform of the 1976 Toxic Substance Control Act is on track for completion. Science supporters will find an array of research grants available based on 2016 record budget funding, although the 2017 budget includes specific budget caps agreed to by the President.
Toxic jewelry: Cadmium found in Ardene, Aldo products
January 15, 2016, CBC News
Health Canada has put out an alert for cadmium in jewelry that poses a threat similar to lead if ingested. There are not known risks for people who wear contaminated jewelry. Rather, it represents a threat to children who might swallow or chew on a piece of jewelry containing high concentrations of the toxic metal.
E-commerce safety in digital age
January 21, 2016, siasat.com
India’s growing e-commerce market may hit USD 38 billion in 2016 revenue, inviting both advantages and risks. A new e-warranty provider has introduced a process that claims to create direct communication channel between buyer and seller, avoiding the consumer’s need to fill out a warranty card, mail it, and maintain proof of purchase. The e-warranty provider provides to both parties to the purchase necessary warranty information from a bar code once the buyer scans and sends by smart phone to the brand, enabling both buyer and seller to have the information.
Public private partnership for consumer awareness
January 17, 2016, The Hindu
India’s Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs is focusing on a consumer awareness campaign in 2016 and discussing with companies possible assistance in funding the effort. The government is working on stringent consumer laws encompassing a product liability clause that would extend manufacturers and suppliers liability not just to the complainant, but to all those who have been affected by the substandard product.
Toys”R”Us opens its 100th store in China
January 18, 2016, PRWireNews
Toys”R”Us celebrates a milestone achievement 10 years after opening its first store in China in 2006. The global toy retailer currently operates in 44 cities throughout the country.
Fair Trading urge consumers to keep eye on recalls
January 13, 2016, The Daily Examiner
An Australian Competition & Consumer Commission safety official has warned consumers and businesses about recalled products that pose a threat to public safety. Acting Commissioner John Tansey urges consumers to check the ACCC’s recall website for information and ways to register for a variety of recalls.
