I-Team: As bounce houses grow in popularity, safety regulations haven’t kept up
May 16, 2017, nbcnewyork.com
Amid increasing concerns over the safety of children’s bounce houses and calls for regulation, a media group reports that a critical New York State advisory board, created by law after a string of deadly amusement park accidents, hasn’t met in six years. The Carnival, Fair and Amusement Park Safety Advisory Board – a panel of industry experts – was formed in 2006 with a mandate to advise the state Labor Department commissioner on “rules, regulations and statutes” for everything from mechanical rides to inflatables. The CPSC reports over 113,000 emergency room visits for injuries, and 12 deaths associated with the product from 2003-2013.
CPSC Commissioner Viewpoints:
>Acting Chair Ann Marie Buerkle: The Acting Chair releases a May 17, 2017 e-mail update on what is happening at the CPSC. She shares reflections on the majority/minority composition of the Commissioners, the revocation of the magnet standard from the CFR, and developments on portable generators and table saws.
>Commissioner Elliot Kaye: The Commissioner releases a policy paper on hazards of padded crib bumpers developed by his Senior Advisor, Dr. Jonathon Midgett, including recommendations on possible performance standards to address the hazards.
Following plumber’s death, electric ranges recalled by Arçelik A.S., due to shock and electrocution hazards
May 19, 2017, cpsc.gov
Following the fatal incident, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Arçelik A.S. of Turkey and Beko US, of Bolingbrook, Ill. announced the voluntary recall of about 6,300 Blomberg and Summit brand freestanding electric ranges. The electric ranges can become energized because a screw was not installed to secure the grounding strap during manufacturing, posing electric shock and electrocution hazards.
Australia: Fidget spinners probe launched in WA after reported eye injuries, battery concerns
May 19, 2017, abc.net.au
An investigation has been launched into the safety of fidget spinners in WA after reports of injuries and concerns over some models that contain button batteries. Consumer Protection launched the probe after an 11-year-old boy in Victoria reportedly suffered a serious eye injury from one of the models. The palm-sized spinners are three-pronged and spin on a central bearing. They have been marketed as helping children with ADHD and autism.
News Investigators: Samsung microwave catches fire
May 19, 2017, Chicago.cbslocal.com
A media story on the incident at a consumer’s home uncovered other instances of burnt Samsung microwaves. Sixty-one fire-related complaints were filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission dating back to 2011. Often, the reports are similar relating to the interior side panel burning and melting and there are repeated concerns about the potential fire danger.
EU to propose 10-year license renewal for weed killer glyphosate
May 19, 2017, UK Reuters.com
The European Commission will propose extending by 10 years its approval for weed-killer glyphosate, used in Monsanto’s Roundup. A transatlantic row over possible risks to human health has prompted investigations by congressional committees in the United States, and in Europe has forced a delay to a re-licensing decision for Monsanto’s big-selling Roundup herbicide. A new study issued in March by the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) paved the way for the Commission’s decision to restart negotiations with EU nations over renewing the license for glyphosate, despite opposition from environmental groups.
Youth football numbers drop amid injury fears
May 16, 2017, oakpark.com
In the last decade, according to club officials, the number of children registered to play football with the organization has dropped by around 50 percent — from a high of more than 300 registered participations roughly eight years ago to what officials project could be around 150 players this upcoming season. Driving the decline, officials say, is widespread concern among parents about the safety of the sport, particularly the health risks related to frequent head trauma. The fear is national.
Dow Chemical receives 2017 U.S. EPA Safer Choice Partner of the Year Award; recognized for the development and promotion of safer product alternatives
May 17, 2017, 4-Traders.com
The two products address environmental and health hazards. ECOSURF EH Surfactants enables superior hard surface cleaning performance with an improved environmental profile. BLUEDGE Polymeric Flame Retardant Technology is an innovation that is transforming the market as the next-generation industry standard flame retardant for use in polystyrene foam insulation.
Emerson wins Environmental Health and Safety Innovation Award
May 17, 2017, Corporate Responsibility Newswrite
Independent research firm, Verdantix, recognized the multinational technology and engineering company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri (USA). Emerson won in the utilities and telecoms category for the implementation of a new material compliance management system developed by iPoint, a provider of software and consulting for environmental and social product compliance, process compliance, sustainability, and digital circular economy.
