CPSC Approves New Federal Safety Standard For Custom Window Coverings
November 2, 2022, cpsc.gov
In an effort to reduce the risk of strangulation deaths and serious life-threatening injuries to children from corded window coverings, the Consumer Product Safety Commission voted last week, by a vote of 4 to 0, to approve a new federal safety standard. The Standard addresses operating cords on custom window coverings. Custom window coverings include shades, blinds, curtains, drapery or other cord-operated products, created to a consumer’s specifications. The Commission also approved a new federal safety rule that added non-compliant window covering cords to CPSC’s substantial product hazard list.
CPSC Commissioner Statements:
Chair Alexander Hoehn-Saric Statement
Commissioner Peter A. Feldman
Commissioner Richard Trumka Statement
Commissioner Mary T. Boyle Statement
The STURDY Tip-Over Act Would Supersede CPSC’s New Standard, But It’s Complicated; Industry Group Opposes Measure
November 1, 2022, Furniture Today
While the Stop Tip-overs of Unstable, Risky Dressers on Youth (STURDY) Act still sits waiting on action by the House, the Consumer Product Safety Commission voted late October to adopt a complex mandatory product safety rule that will significantly change the way clothing storage furniture is constructed, tested and labeled. The rule has not yet been published in the Federal Register. It will take effect 180 days after publication. But how does the new rule differ from STURDY? And which one supersedes the other?
When Changing Jobs Changes Your Identity
November 2, 2022, Harvard Business Review
Studies show that somewhere around half of all new hires fail in their roles, with lack of “fit” being cited as a key reason. In this piece, the author argues that “fit” doesn’t always stem from a fundamental incompatibility, but rather can come from a failure to complete the psychological transition from one identity to another.
Hidden Hazards: Why The Government Can’t Always Warn You About Potentially Dangerous Products
November 1, 2022, CBS Baltimore
When you buy something for your home or family, the assumption is that it’s probably safe. Somebody must be testing these items and paying especially close attention to products marketed for children and infants. But the federal agency that’s supposed to protect American consumers faces major obstacles before it can reveal that a product on the market is causing injuries or even deaths.
E-Scooter Accidents Surge As The Micromobility Devices’ Popularity Grows
November 1, 2022, SmartCitiesDive
As the presence of electric scooters continues to grow in U.S. cities, so do the safety risks that come with them. The number of e-scooter-related emergency room visits in the U.S. has surged by nearly 450% from 7,700in 2017 to 42,200 in 2021, according to a recent Consumer Product Safety Commission report. The vehicles can become safety hazards for many reasons says a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine and the Transportation Research Board.
QIMA October 2022 Regulatory Update
November 2022, Qima.com
News about regulatory activities in North America, Oceania, Europe and Asia.
‘No Excuse’: Parents Warn Of E-Scooter Dangers After Son Killed In Hit-And-Run
November 3, 2022, Fox 8
They’re a quick and easy way to get around, but they can also be very dangerous. The Consumer Products Safety Commission is reporting a 127% increase in injuries from “micromobility” devices like e-bikes and especially e-scooters. Kent State University student Colin Pho was riding an e-scooter when he was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver. The Pho’s are now calling on local leaders to create stricter rules and/or laws governing their usage or at a minimum to install extra streetlights, signage and raise awareness.
Toy Safety Tips From New York City Health
November 2022, City of New York
Always watch young children closely when they play. Play is an important part of a child’s growth and development, but sometimes children can be seriously hurt when playing with toys. Here are steps you can take to keep children safe when they play.
Australia: OPSS Intervenes On Dangerous 66,000 Glen Dimplex Gas Cookers
November 3, 2022, Mirage
The Office for Product Standards and Safety analyzed product safety data which revealed certain models of Glen Dimplex gas cookers with a separate gas grill have an inherent carbon monoxide risk putting consumers in danger. The company has agreed to visit every home containing the affected cookers, to implement a technical modification to the appliance so that operation of the gas grill is safe. The company is required to contact all affected users. Information about the models and consumer advice are available on the company’s websites.
CPSC Invites Importers To Participate In Beta Pilot Test Of Efiling Initiative To Increase Safety Of Consumer Products
November 3, 2022, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is seeking importers to participate in a six-month Beta Pilot stage of an eFiling initiative that will speed detection of violative consumer products while facilitating the importation of compliant trade. By allowing importers of regulated consumer products to file electronically (eFile) with CPSC and Customs and Border Protection certain data elements from a certificate of compliance, this initiative can benefit consumers and companies alike.
FDA Suggests Parents Not Use Infant Head-Shaping Pillows
November 3, 2022, WOKV News & Talk
The Food and Drug Administration suggests that parents and caregivers not use infant head-shaping pillows that could change the infant’s head shape or symmetry or claim to prevent or treat any medical condition. This is because the head-shaping pillows can create an “unsafe sleep environment,” possibly contributing to the risk of suffocation and death.
