Analysis: CPSC Issues Unilateral Recall Press Release Involving “Uncooperative” Retailer Of Smoke Detector
August 22, 2024, JD Supra
On May 16, 2024, the Consumer Product Safety Commission took an unconventional action, unilaterally issuing a recall announcement urging consumers to dispose of CHZHVAN Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors after reports that the detectors failed to alarm in the presence of smoke. The recall press release notes that the seller of the detectors “has not responded to the CPSC or consumers and has been uncooperative in the implementation of the recall.” Traditionally, consumer product recalls are voluntarily conducted by the product manufacturer or retailer in conjunction with CPSC. If a company is unwilling to conduct a voluntary recall, CPSC can use various enforcement mechanisms to pressure the company to agree to recall the product.
Deputy Coroners Praised For Role In US, Canada Product Recall
August 22, 2024, WSPA News
It’s not everyday deputy coroners are honored for saving lives. Two members of the Greenville County Coroner’s Office are being praised for their investigative work, which could very well save thousands of lives, after they brought attention to the dangers of adult portable bed rails. Deputy coroners, Brent Stephens and Robert Parker, spearheaded the Greenville investigations and worked closely with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to identify the hazards caused by the products. A medical supply company is recalling more than one million bed rails after a number of deaths were linked to Medline’s Bed Assist Bars.
Finding Joy As A Manager — Even On Bad Days
August 22, 2024, Harvard Business Review
When work and life are overwhelming, it can be difficult to reclaim a sense of joy at work. Research has shown the benefits of incorporating joy, hope, and optimism into the workplace to combat burnout and improve well-being. The author recommends four strategies to reconnect with joy at work on your toughest days: 1) Find your why; 2) Embrace a beginner’s mindset; 3) Sprinkle gratitude and joy like confetti; and 4) Fuel your joy.
CPSC Chair Hoehn-Saric To Speak At The Consumer Product Safety Professional Certification Program
CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric will speak at the Consumer Product Safety Professional Certification Program. The program is hosted by the Society of Product Safety Professionals in collaboration with ADK Information Services. The event will take place virtually on Zoom on Thursday, August 29 at 8:00 AM Eastern Time.
UK Industry Group Launches E-Bike Positive Campaign To Regain Consumer Confidence
August 22, Cycling Industry News
The UK cycling sector, including industry trade bodies, leading eBike brands, local bike shops and national charities, have joined forces for what is said to be the biggest-ever national campaign to boost electric bike battery safety knowledge, inform more people of the benefits of e-cycling and encourage consumers to buy with confidence. The E-Bike Positive campaign will share the positive effects of e-cycling and equip the UK public to buy safe, charge safe and ride safe on eBikes. The E-Bike Positive campaign will help people identify high-quality, legal eBike products through free resources.
Analysis: Journalists And Social Media Users Are Key Drivers Behind Canadian Product Recall Decisions
August 22, 2024, The Conversation
Canada saw a record 2,330 product recalls in 2023 — more than six per day and the highest since the federal government started releasing the data in 2011. The decision on the number of product units to recall is typically left up to the managers of manufacturing companies. This decision can be influenced by a variety of external pressures. What exactly drives these managers when issuing a recall? Recently published research answers this question, focusing on two stakeholders — journalists and social media users — who, despite having no direct authority over managers, significantly influence recall decisions.
Toxic Forever Chemicals Detected On Kids’ Skin After Playing On Turf Fields
August 22, 2024, ABC News 12
There are new concerns about potential exposure to unseen dangers on artificial turf fields. New research suggests kids may pick up ‘forever chemicals’ on their skin, which could pose health risks. Now, there are calls on the EPA to act, as state and local governments are passing new laws to protect their communities.
Safety Concerns Grow As More Electric Scooters Catch Fire
August 21,2024, The Korea Times
According to experts, concerns are growing over the safety of electric scooters amid a recent surge in electric vehicle battery fires, particularly when scooters are left unattended on sidewalks and at apartment complexes. They warn that while the fire risk is significant, current safety management guidelines for such personal mobility devices are inadequate. Experts emphasize the dangers posed by the batteries used in these devices and stress the need for dedicated systems and regulations tailored specifically to them.
Squeeze Plush Ball Toys Recalled; Membrane Can Rupture
August 22, 2024, KIRO News
The Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of toys sold exclusively at Ace Hardware. The Squeeze Plush Ball monster and Easter toys, manufactured in China and imported by Shawshank LEDz Inc., have glitter in a liquid inside a membrane within the stuffed toy. The membrane can rupture allowing the liquid to splash onto a child’s face and body. In one of two cases of the membrane breaking a child had glitter in their eyes and had to see a medical professional to have it removed, the CPSC said.
Opinion: New U.S. Chamber Of Commerce Report Examines Impacts Of Widespread Pfas Bans On The Economy And Daily American Lives
August 22, 2024, JD Supra
According to the August 15 study by the Chamber of Commerce, widespread bans on fluorochemistries, including PFAS, would significantly impact seven critical sectors of the U.S. economy: specifically aerospace manufacturing, defense equipment and systems, healthcare, energy, mobility, semiconductors, and data centers. Fluorochemistries are indispensable within each of these sectors because of their critical properties that make them durable, efficient, reliable, and, at times, irreplaceable. The Chamber of Commerce report highlights the essential uses, economic significance, and societal benefits of fluorochemistries.
