Sen. Manchin Leads Bipartisan Effort To Protect Off-Highway Vehicles Against Regulatory Overreach
December 6, 2023, Senator joe Manchin
U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Barrasso (R-WY), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Ted Budd (R-NC) and James Risch (R-ID) sent a letter to Consumer Product Safety Commission Chair Alexander Hoehn-Saric to express their concerns over the Commission’s proposed rule on debris penetration in off-highway vehicles. CPSC issued this proposed rule without sufficient evidence of risk to consumers and without regard to its negative economic consequences, particularly on the powersports industry in rural states. “As you know, off-highway vehicles are a staple of American life. They are used for recreation, agriculture, law enforcement, emergency services, and more. They are also an important economic driver, especially in rural America.” the Senators said in part. “We have serious concerns regarding the rulemaking process and the substance of the proposed debris penetration rule. Moreover, we are concerned about the effect the rule would have on the availability of off-highway vehicles and on the economic footprint of the powersports industry.”

Recall, Warnings Issued Over Toy Magnetic Balls After 7 Deaths Reported
December 8, 2023, Live Now Fox
The Consumer Product Safety Commission shared several warnings over small yet high-powered magnetic balls in toy sets after seven deaths and thousands of hospital visits were reported. The CPSC estimated that 2,400 magnet ingestions were treated in hospital emergency departments between 2017 and 2021, and said it was aware of seven deaths – including two outside the United States. The CPSC said testing determined that the magnetic ball sets are stronger than permitted and are small enough to fit within the CPSC’s small parts test cylinder. A recall was issued for one of the products, XpressGoods’ “Colorful Metal Neodymium Magic Magnetic Balls – 8 color, 5mm”. But multiple other warnings were posted by the CPSC about similar magnetic ball products of concern, including at least four sold exclusively on Temu.com. They include Magic QQ’s 216-Piece Mixed Color Magnetic Ball Sets; Allvre’s 216-Piece 5mm Magnetic Ball Sets; Sunny House’s 125-Piece 5mm Mixed Color Magnetic Ball Sets; and Ming Tai Trade’s 216-Piece 5mm Magnetic Ball Sets – all of which originated from China. The CPSC said it issued a “Notice of Violation” to the sellers, but most of the companies did not agree to recall their magnetic ball sets or offer a remedy to consumers.

Overcoming Your Need For Constant Validation At Work
December 8, 2023, Harvard Business Review
Letting go of the need for constant approval at work doesn’t mean you have to stop caring. In fact, the most effective leaders are those who balance empathy and decisiveness, conviction and compassion and warmth and strength. In this article, the author offers strategies for how to mitigate an excessive need for approval at work: 1) Do a gut check; 2) Formulate your own opinions first; 3) Try the “so what?” test; 4) Wait 24 hours before responding to contentious or charged issues; and 5) Keep promises you make to yourself.

Anchor It! A Mother Turns A Tragedy Into Advocacy
December 27, 2023, Seattle’s Child
June 11, 2014, changed Crystal Ellis’s and her family’s lives forever. What happened that June, and the grief of their loss, will stay with her family forever. Since her child’s death, Ellis has worked hard to warn other parents about the risk of tip-over accidents — a leading cause of child injury and death in the United States. She became a founding member of the national advocacy group Parents Against Tip-overs (PAT) and continues to push her family’s story out through the organization. Consumer Product and Safety Commission data shows 199 tip-over-related child fatalities between January 2000 and April 2022. As the holidays draw near and many families consider furniture and large electronics purchases, PAT is working with the CPSC to push out the message “Anchor It! Even when you’re watching!” to raise awareness about tip-overs and urge families to secure all furniture safely.

Border Patrol And Homeland Security: Avoid Holiday Counterfeit And Dubiouis Goods That Pose Security Risks
December 7, 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations officials gathered at Laredo’s World Trade Bridge for an illustrative event to advise the public through local media this holiday season to avoid buying goods that may be counterfeit or of dubious origin. They warned about goods that may pose consumer safety risks or undercut legitimate trademark holders. “As gift buying starts to ramp up this holiday season, we would like to advise the public to avoid buying counterfeit goods or goods of unknown or dubious origin either online, from brick-and-mortar stores, flea markets or elsewhere,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. 

CPSC Warns Consumers To Stop Using Karriw Crib Bumpers Due Violation Of The Federal Ban On Crib Bumpers; No Recall Or Remedy Offered
December 7, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using Karriw crib bumpers, sold exclusively on Amazon by Lucky_00, because they pose a suffocation hazard to infants. Crib bumpers are banned by the federal Safe Sleep for Babies Act. CPSC issued a Notice of Violation to the seller, Lucky_00, of China, but the firm has not agreed to recall these crib bumpers or offer a remedy to consumers.

CPSC Commissioner Peter A. Feldman On The Proposed Table Saw Rule Comment Extension Request
December 6, 2023. cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has approved a 30-day extension for public comments on the proposed safety standard addressing blade-contact injuries on table saws.  While I voted to support this 30-day extension, I also would have supported the 60-day extension requested by the Power Tool Institute (PTI).  PTI’s request for additional time is reasonable given the complexity of the underlying issues.

Report Highlights: Dangers Associated With Recalled And Counterfeit Toys
December 6, 2023, WECT News Wilmington
An estimated 209,500 toy-related injuries and 11 deaths were reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2022, underscoring the need for consumers to be vigilant about protecting children from unsafe products. Teresa Murray, co-authored U.S. Public Interest Research Group’s ‘Trouble in Toyland 2023,’ an annual report aimed at parents and other gift givers to help them make informed and safe purchases for children. This year’s report focused on recalled and counterfeit toys, showcasing how easy it is for consumers to unknowingly buy them, even though it is illegal to sell them. Recalled toys are not Murray’s only concern. Counterfeit products, many of which come in from overseas, continue to infiltrate retailers’ shelves and online platforms. Murray said the best way to protect against these products is for consumers to inspect, investigate, and research their purchases ahead of time, especially if they are looking for a sold-out or difficult to find item.

CR’s Guide To Better, Safer Drinking Water
December 7, 2023, Consumer Reports
Many Americans still drink water with unhealthy levels of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants. While the nation’s water is in many ways safer than ever, it remains vulnerable to threats old and new, says Ronnie Levin, an instructor in environmental health at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston and the lead author of a September 2023 review of U.S. water quality in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology. Compared with half a century ago, she says, “a lot of things are better, but a lot of things, surprisingly, are not.”

Sandwell Council Warns Households Not To Bin Batteries
December 6, 2023, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Sandwell Council, partner Serco and West Midlands Fire Service, are warning residents of the dangers batteries and electrical items going into bins pose and advising them of how to dispose of them. The move follows a spate of fires in the back of refuse and recycling vehicles, and at waste facilities across the country due to batteries being disposed in household bins

International Product Recall – The Basics You Need To Know
October 26, 2023, Cooley
Increasing globalization of product markets brings tremendous opportunities for product manufacturers. New technologies enable companies to reach consumers in markets all around the world, and rapid geographical expansion is increasingly the order of the day. These opportunities also bring risks that must be managed. For any consumer product manufacturer, there is an ever-present risk – despite the best planning and investment – that something could go wrong in the design, production or distribution phases that creates an unexpected safety risk to consumers. 

Court Rules California Can’t Require Glyphosate Cancer Warning Labels
November 29, 2023, MedTruth
A U.S. appeals court recently ruled that California lacks the authority to enforce a regulation mandating cancer warnings on glyphosate, the main active compound in Monsanto’s widely used herbicide Roundup. Monsanto was acquired by Bayer in 2018. The Ninth Circuit ruled that the most recent warning issued by the state of California perpetuates the assertion that the chemical is hazardous, a claim deemed “at best disputed.” 

What Self-Awareness Really Is (And How To Cultivate It)
January 4, 2018, Harvard Business Review
Although most people believe that they are self-aware, true self-awareness is a rare quality. In this piece, the author describes a recent large-scale investigation that shed light on some of the biggest roadblocks, myths and truths about what self-awareness really is — and what it takes to cultivate it. The study found that there are actually two distinct types of self-awareness, that experience and power can hinder self-awareness, and that introspection doesn’t always make you more self-aware.

New Graduating Class Of Certified Product Safety Professionals™ Announced
December 2, 2023, Virginia Newswire
Eight product safety professionals have earned the designation Certified Product Safety Professionals™, it was announced by the Society of Product Safety Professionals (SPSP) and Virginia Tech. These industry professionals were required to have 10 years of experience in a product safety role or 7 years of experience and a 4-year college degree in a related field. To earn certification, all candidates are required to complete a product safety education program at Virginia Tech’s Research Center in Arlington, VA. Candidates are required to demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understanding of consumer product safety. They do this by: 1) passing a multiple-choice examination, 2) submission of a personal essay, 3) submission of a written case study on a product safety problem, and 4) an oral presentation of their case study to a panel of product safety professionals and an academic member.

Report Finds China Accounts For Most Section 321 Shipments To U.S.
November 29, 2023, STR Trade
An effort in Congress to lower the de minimis value for duty-free imports could get a boost from a recent International Trade Commission report finding that most de minimis shipments into the U.S. come from China. Section 321 of the Tariff Act of 1930 allows for the informal entry of articles that have a retail value of $800 or less and are imported by one person in one day. These articles are free of duty and taxes and are subject to expedited clearance processing. The U.S. de minimis level was increased from $200 to $800 in 2016 and is one of the highest in the world; others of note include $6.50 in China, $111 in Canada, $50 in Mexico, $162 in the European Union, and $168 in the United Kingdom.

British Columbia: Detailed Safety Study Coming For Electric Kick Scooters
December 1, 2023, B C Govt News
The benefits and effects of people using e-scooters will be studied in detail to help more local governments across B.C. evaluate how this clean and popular mode of personal transportation can be safely integrated into local transportation networks. “E-scooters are part of an ongoing shift toward electric personal mobility that’s reducing emissions by giving people new clean and affordable options to get around,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure for the British Columbia government. “We’re making it easier for local governments to test e-scooters on their own roads, so we can ensure future regulations represent the needs of people across the province.” The safety review will start on April 5, 2024 and run for four years.

‘Non-Toxic’ Labels On Water Beads Are Meaningless
December 1, 2023, Consumer Reports
New government research and CR’s tests show dangerous chemicals in the popular children’s toys. When the Consumer Product Safety Commission warned parents and caregivers about water beads this fall, it cited a panoply of potential risks to children. But there is another potential harm to consider, aside from what the beads’ growth inside the body can do. The beads themselves may be toxic.

Consumer Groups Support Disclosure Of Financial Interests In CPSC Proceedings And Urge CPSC To Ensure Ease For Consumers
November 30, 2023, Consumer Federation of America
Consumer Federation of America (CFA) and other consumer organizations submitted joint comments to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regarding the proposed rule to require the disclosure of certain financial interests in CPSC proceedings.  The consumer organizations support the changes that would promote transparency and fairness in the CPSC’s important work. However, as the agency works to finalize the rule, the groups urged the CPSC to take every step to ensure that the participation of consumers and affected families is not limited in any way. 

EPA Seeks To Increase Protections For Two Toxic Chemicals
November 29, 2023, Safety + Health Magazine
The Environmental Protection Agency wants to strengthen restrictions on two persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chemicals already regulated under the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976. On Nov. 24, EPA published a proposed rule that would enhance worker protections from decabromodiphenyl ether  – a flame retardant used in textiles, plastics and polyurethane foam – as well as phenol, isopropylated, phosphate (3:1). PIP 3:1 can be a plasticizer, flame retardant, anti-wear additive or an anti-compressibility additive. Its uses include hydraulic fluid, lubricants and greases, and industrial coatings. It’s also used in consumer and commercial goods – such as cellphones, laptop computers, and other electronic and electrical devices – as well as industrial and commercial equipment.

Study Finds PFAS Still Abundant In Apparel
December 1, 2023, Sourcing Journal
Despite calls for bans and commitments from brands, outerwear products around the world are still laden with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), new research shows. Jackets and other apparel purchased in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America were found to contain the “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to severe health conditions, according to a study from the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) and 13 IPEN members including international public interest NGOs. The groups tested items from 13 countries, finding that many were marketed to children and came into direct contact with the skin.

Is It Safe To Leave Outdoor Christmas Lights On Overnight?
November 29, 2023, Romper
In short: no, you should not leave outdoor Christmas lights and decorations on overnight. It’s indisputably safer to turn your exterior lights off when you hit the hay, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Their holiday safety guide clearly states that you should “turn off all lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights could short and start a fire.” If you’re worried you’ll forget or don’t want to fuss with turning your light display on and off every day, just invest in an outdoor light timer.

Two Southern California Executives Convicted In Dehumidifiers Scheme Case
November 16, 2023, MSN
Two Southern California executives were found guilty for their roles in a scheme involving sales of defective and fire-prone Chinese-made dehumidifiers. Both were convicted of conspiracy and failure to furnish information to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The jury found that as early as September 2012, Simon Chu and Charley Loh received multiple reports that their dehumidifiers were defective, dangerous and could catch fire. The executives also knew that they were required to immediately report the product safety information to the CPSC, according to the DOJ.

U.S. Product Recalls Fall During Q3 Even As Regulatory Scrutiny Increases
November 16, 2023, Sedgwick
U.S. product recall activity recorded it largest quarterly decline in over three years, as events fell by more than ten percent between Q2 and Q3 2023.  According to Sedgwick brand protection’s latest U.S. Recall Index report, there were 740 product recalls in Q3 2023, which is 13.6% fewer than the 856 recorded in Q2 2023. Despite this third quarter decline, 2023 still remains on track to hit a five year high for total recall events. The number of defective units recalled in Q3 2023 also fell significantly, decreasing 61.9% from Q2 2023.

10 Ways To Prove You’re A Strategic Thinker
October 31, 2023, Harvard Business Review
To get ahead in the business world, it’s not enough to think strategically. You also have to effectively communicate those ideas. There are several ways to do this. These include: 1) Elevating the conversation to focus on the big picture and broader context; 2) Being forward-looking in your comments; 3) Anticipating the effects of potential decisions; 4) Connecting disparate concepts, simplifying complex issues; 5) Using metaphors and analogies, stimulating dialogue with question; 6) Showing you are informed; 7) Actively listening; and 8) Seeking feedback.

Campaign Launched To Combat Rising Fires From Lithium-Ion Batteries
November 15, 2023, Fire Safety Research Institute
Fires from lithium-ion battery-powered devices are increasing at an alarming rate. UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute launched the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety campaign with a new PSA and tips to educate people about safer use of lithium-ion battery powered devices. The campaign is being launched in collaboration with The Fire Department of the City of New York, U.S. Fire Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and with the support of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

PFAS In Consumer Products: State-By-State Regulations – November 2023
November 14, 2023, JD Supra
Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of consumer products across a broad spectrum of industries are being impacted by laws regulating the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) in their products. This area is rapidly developing as states create new laws, and the penalties and litigation risks for non-compliance can be significant.

EU Report Says Harmful Compounds Lurk In Childcare Products
November 16, 2023, C&EN
Harmful compounds are present in products that kids are exposed to often, including car seats, bibs, and changing pads, according to a report from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The substances, which include flame retardants, metals, and phthalates, are known to cause cancer, genetic mutations, or reproductive harm. ECHA scientists collected over 1,500 measurements of childcare products to test for 182 compounds known as CMRs because they are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction. They found multiple potentially harmful compounds in concentrations above the European Union’s limits. These include vinyl chloride, lead, cobalt, diisobutyl phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate, di-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, and the flame retardants tetrabromobisphenol A and tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate.

Irish Research: Flame Retardant Chemicals Can Cause Serious Health Risks – And They Only Slow Fire By A Few Seconds
November 15, 2023, The Conversation
Like for other chemicals such as pesticides and asbestos, research caught up with the most widely used FRs in the early 2000s and found that the benefits of these chemicals may be outweighed by the dangers. Simply using these items is enough to make FRs leach into indoor air and dust where we can inhale or ingest them, or even absorb them through our skin.

New Report Outlines Risks Of AI-Enabled Smart Toys On Your Child’s Wish List
November 17, 2023, USA Today
Toys that spy on children are a growing threat, according to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group which published a report covering the dangers of certain products as well as purchases of recalled toys. “Smart toys” specifically, are causing concern and the industry isn’t slowing down. The global market for smart toys grew to $16.7 million this year, from $14.1 million in 2022, according to a large market research firm, and is expected to at least double by 2027. Before purchasing that “must have” smart toy on your child’s Christmas wish list, here’s what to know about the risks.

How To Stay Safe While Cooking And Decorating This Holiday Season
November 15, 2023, CBS 11 News
The Consumer Product Safety Commission used dramatic demonstrations to warn of the pitfalls that can ruin a happy holiday and the stunning statistics behind injuries related to holiday decorating, cooking and toys. “The unthinkable can happen in an instant and fires involving Christmas trees and candles are far too frequent in this holiday season,” said Alexander Hoehn-Saric, CPSC Chairman. The CPSC says an average of 1,600 cooking fires take place on Thanksgiving Day, more than three times the daily average. The CPSC says to stay close while food is on the stove or in the oven. If you are frying a turkey, place the fryer far from the house and never on the porch or in the garage.

Third Time’s A Charm: California Re-Introduces Proposed Changes To Proposition 65’s Warnings And Safe Harbor Requirements
November 16, 2023, JD Supra
The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), the lead agency that implements Proposition 65, introduced its third attempt to amend the “short form” warning provisions of this widely enforced consumer protection statute. If implemented, the proposal would require the Proposition 65 short form warning to identify at least one Proposition 65-listed chemical present in the product. The agency stated the proposal intends to make the short form warning more informative to consumers. In reality, the proposal shifts costs to businesses.

UK Ofcom Provides Detail On Online Safety Act ‘Illegal Harms’ Regime
November 16, 2023, Pinsent Masons
Online content platforms operating in the UK should study recent publications issued by Ofcom to get a better handle on how the Online Safety Act will apply to them, and what they can do to meet the new legal requirements around addressing illegal content. The draft codes of practice and guidance published by Ofcom on 9 November supplement the wording in the Online Safety Act, which became UK law late last month. This means that, for many service providers, compliance with the codes and associated guidance Ofcom issues will be the easiest way to meet their duties under the Act.

Indian Centre Sets Up Committee To Draft Safety Pledge For E-Commerce Platforms
November 17, 2023, KNN India
With the aim to prevent the sale of unsafe goods to consumers through online marketplaces, the government has constituted a committee to draft the safety pledge for e-commerce platforms. The panel, which includes members from major e-commerce platforms, voluntary consumer associations, industry bodies and National Law Universities, will submit its report in two weeks. The Department of Consumer Affairs held a stakeholder consultation on preparation for a ‘Safety Pledge’ for e-commerce platforms. The exercise is aimed at ensuring the sale of goods which are safe for use by consumers and requires platforms to take appropriate measures to prevent the sale of unsafe goods, an official statement said.

CPSC Commissioner Feldman Statement: Record Recall Numbers Reflect ROI For Consumers; “These Strong Numbers Are No Accident”
November 1, 2023, cpsc.gov
Commissioner Feldman notes the importance of recall results. “The Consumer Product Safety Commission announced more than 300 recalls in fiscal year 2023, a 20% increase over the previous year. Of particular note, defect and regulatory recalls are up, with the latter at an all-time high. These strong numbers are no accident. They reflect a multi-year push to re-prioritize the agency’s core mission of enforcement and compliance. I have supported efforts to increase funding, add additional staff and provide new case management tools for CPSC’s Office of Compliance and Field Operations (EXC). This approach is paying dividends for American consumers.”

Subcommittee Markup Recap: E&C Advances Bills To Enhance Product Safety, Transparency, Supply Chains And American Tech Leadership
November 2, 2023, Energy & Commerce Committee
The House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee advanced proposals to secure American technological leadership and improve people’s lives. In a subcommittee markup, the Innovation, Data, and Commerce Subcommittee voted in favor of several pieces of legislation that enhance product safety, improve the resiliency of America’s supply chains and bring much needed price transparency to the ticketing and lodging industries.

Project Managers Should Think Like Startup Founders
November 2, 2023, Harvard Business Review 
Most project managers focus on planning and execution. But large projects rarely go in a straight line and the execution may go far in the wrong direction before the need for changes are recognized. The author, a strategic advisor to large firms, suggests that project leaders should think like startup founders instead, using tools that have become common in that sector: A project canvas, customer development and so forth. In doing so, project leaders can uncover and solve some of the project’s biggest questions and risks first, before scaling to full execution.

CBP Seizes Flammable Children’s Sleepwear
November 1, 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Champlain Port of Entry seized a commercial shipment of children’s sleepwear that failed flammability requirement standards. In August, CBP officers examined a shipment of children’s sleepwear that were manufactured in China. Working in collaboration with the Consumer Product Safety Commission a sample was provided for further testing. CPSC determined the products failed the flammability requirements under the Flammable Fabrics Act and recommended seizure. 

The U.S. Commerce Department Is Creating An AI Safety Agency
November 2, 2023, Husch Blackwell
The Biden Administration is creating a new Federal agency focused on the safety and security of Artificial Intelligence systems. President Biden directed the Department of Commerce to establish the U.S. Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute (USAISI), which will lead the government’s efforts on AI safety and trust. USAISI will facilitate the development of safety, security and testing standards for AI models, and the development of standards for authenticating AI-generated content.

CPSC: Stop Using Mollys Products’ Sodium Hydroxide. No Consumer Remedy Offered
November 2, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to immediately stop using Mollys Products’ sodium hydroxide products because they do not comply with the child resistant packaging requirements under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act.  product violates the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. The seller Burgess Jackson, Inc. of Philadelphia, has not agreed to recall the Mollys Products’ sodium hydroxide or offer a remedy to consumers.

The Forever Frontier: PFAS Trends Can Create New Areas Of Focus For Companies
November 3, 2023, Reuters
In recent years, mass tort litigation has shown increased focus on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), and perhaps more importantly, on new products, industries, and users of these substances that previously avoided such attention. As is often the case with mass and toxic tort litigation, the filer appetite for larger and more diverse groups of defendants has caused focus to shift to second, third, and fourth “tiers” of defendants. This happens as primary defendants become insolvent and seek bankruptcy protections.

What The Consumer Protection Act Says About Liability For Damage
November 4, 2023, The Citizen
It is important for consumers to know what the Consumer Protection Act says about liability for damages because it gives them a way to get recourse. Section 61 of the Act deals with the liability of the producer, importer, distributor or retailer of hazardous, unsafe or defective goods that caused the death, injury or illness of any person or loss of or physical damage to any moveable or immovable property. These parties can also be held responsible for damage or harm caused by not giving consumers adequate instructions or warnings regarding the use of the goods. While consumers do not have to prove that the producer, importer, distributor or retailer was at fault, they can only claim for loss which results from the types of harm mentioned above.

More Than 40% Of Consumers Use Their Social Media Feeds To Find Products
November 1, 2023, PYMNTS
In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for consumers to discover and purchase products. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have transformed the way people shop. Findings captured in a joint PYMNTS-AWS study show that 43% of consumers browse social media to find goods and services. Notably, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok have the highest conversion rates, with users frequently purchasing products they discover on these platforms.

Toy Safety Awareness Month Kicks Off
November 1, 2023, The Toy Association
November is Toy Safety Awareness Month. It’s goal is to help parents, grandparents, and other caregivers keep little ones safe this holiday season. From the importance of avoiding recalled and counterfeit products, to advice for keeping kids safe when playing with Internet-connected toys, families are being advised of some simple steps they can take to ensure children’s safety. Toy Safety Awareness Month is sponsored by PlaySafe.org, The Toy Association’s trusted safety resource for parents.

CPSC Chair Hoehn-Saric Focuses On Online Marketplaces At ICPHSO International Conference
October 27, 2023, Retail & Consumer Product Law Observer
CPSC Chair Alexander Hoehn-Saric gave a keynote address to the International Symposium of the International Consumer Product Health and Safety Organization (ICPHSO) in Almhult, Sweden. Hoehn-Saric focused his remarks on his stated goal for the third year of his term as chairman of the agency—addressing recalled or otherwise violative products sold on or through online marketplaces. In Hoehn-Saric’s view, consumers expect to purchase safe products on online marketplaces. He believes they should not need to know or discern whether a product is purchased directly from an online retailer or from an entity that has been provided access to consumers through the online platform. He complemented collaborative improvements by Amazon, eBay and Target but issued a call to action including adoption of “safety by design “and legislative and regulatory protections.

Sen. Ossoff Demands Answers About Baby Bib And Blanket Safety Following Recalls
October 24, 2023, Sen. Jon Ossoff
Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) is demanding answers about the safety of baby bibs and blankets following a recent recall. Little Sleepies recalled their “Sleepyhead Loveys” and “Bandana Bibs” due to potential choking hazards. Sen. Ossoff launched an inquiry with Little Sleepies CEO, Maradith Frenkel, demanding answers in three areas: 1) About the safety of their products, 2) What they are doing to insure the safety of other products being sold, and 3) What will be done to prevent dangerous oversights like this happening again. 

Building Consensus Around Difficult Strategic Decisions
October 27, 2023, Harvard Business Review
Making future-focused decisions in an uncertain world presents fundamental challenges for leaders. So how can leaders get clarity on the best path forward? The authors of this article have developed a tool that they call “strategic sparring sessions.” These are immersive, interactive discussions specifically designed to help groups see through the fog that accompanies today’s predictable unpredictability. These sessions help teams align on key assumptions, build conviction on a path forward, and activate individual and collective change.

ICPHSO Conference Highlights Need For Understanding The Basics Of Product Recall
October 26, 2023, Cooley
Increasing globalization of product markets brings tremendous opportunities for product manufacturers. New technologies enable companies to reach consumers in markets all around the world, and rapid geographical expansion is increasingly the order of the day. These opportunities also bring risks that must be managed. For any consumer product manufacturer, there is an ever-present risk – despite the best planning and investment – that something could go wrong in the design, production or distribution phases that creates an unexpected safety risk to consumers. When that happens, the manufacturer may need to consider implementing an international product recall or some other form of safety action. Sometimes, that action may be required as a mandatory step by government regulators.

Apple Lines Up To Support Nationwide Right-To-Repair Legislation
October 24, 2023, CNBC
Apple said that it supports nationwide right-to-repair regulation that would make iPhone parts and tools available to customers, the latest sign of the company’s shift toward supporting independent repair. Apple is an important symbol for the right-to-repair movement. Its products are widely used, and many users have encountered a cracked iPhone screen or used-up battery that required a trip to a repair or Apple store. Apple said it sees “real value” in a national law at a recent White House event.

Best Buy Recalls Almost 1 Million Pressure Cookers After Spewed Contents Burn 17 People
October 26, 2023, CBS News
Best Buy is recalling 930,000 pressure cookers due to a defect that can cause hot food and liquid to spew from the devices, potentially burning those nearby, the retailer said in a notice posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The retailer said it has received 31 reports of the cooker’s contents being expelled under pressure. Some 17 people suffered burn injuries, some second-degree and severe. The Insignia electric pressure cookers have incorrect volume markings on their inner pots, which can cause overfilled contents to eject when pressurized, according to the Richfield, Minnesota-based company.

New Study: Dangerous ‘Forever Chemicals’ In Your Everyday Items Are Causing Cancer
October 24, 2023, Newsweek
Several “forever chemicals” found nearly everywhere in our day-to-day lives have been linked to thyroid cancer, new research has found. Certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to breaking down in the environment, have been associated with a 56 percent increased risk of thyroid cancer diagnosis. This is according to new research published in the journal eBioMedicine.

Clothing Textile Flammability Standard Revised
October 26, 2023, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a final rule that, effective approximately April 22, 2024, will amend the standard for the flammability of clothing textiles to clarify existing provisions. The Flammable Fabrics Act prohibits the importation, manufacture for sale, or sale in commerce of any fabric or article of wearing apparel that is so highly flammable as to be dangerous when worn by individuals. The CPSC uses a test first codified as a standard in 1975 (in 16 CFR Part 1610) and since amended several times to determine if fabric meets this criterion. This standard includes test equipment, materials and procedures for testing the flammability of clothing textiles and applies to all items of clothing and fabrics intended to be used for clothing (with certain exclusions).

Editorial: Social Media Can Harm Kids. Lawsuits Could Force Meta, Others To Make Platforms Safer
October 26, 2023, Los Angeles Times
It’s a rare issue that can bring 41 states together for a bipartisan fight. This week, state attorneys general across the political spectrum joined forces in suing Facebook parent company Meta for allegedly using features on Instagram and other platforms that hook young users, while denying or downplaying the risks to their mental health. This comes two years after states began investigating Meta following revelations that the company’s internal research found Instagram was having a negative effect on some teen users’ mental health.

Woman Who Burned Herself On Dunkin’ Coffee Settles For $3 Million
October 25, 2023, CNN 
A Dunkin’ franchisee is paying a woman $3 million to settle a lawsuit involving hot coffee falling on her lap that she alleges caused severe burns and life-altering injuries, according to her lawyers. According to the woman’s attorney, the lid came off the cup after she was given the drink and the hot coffee spilled on her lap causing second- and third-degree burns to her thighs, groin and abdomen. She also required “extensive” skin grafts, a statement said. The injury resulted in her spending weeks at a burn unit in a Georgia hospital, costing her $200,000 in medical bills.

Boyle: CPSC To Propose Mandatory Requirements For Batteries For Micromobility Products
October 17, 2023, Bicycle Retailer
CPSC Commissioner Mary T. Boyle recently addressed the PeopleForBikes’ SHIFT’23 conference. She provided information on CPSC plans for micromobility device regulations. “I’m happy to announce we are poised to consider regulatory regulations for micromobility devices across the board, including e-bikes,” Boyle told the group. “We’re going to propose mandatory requirements for batteries in micromobility products. But it’s going to take a while,” she said.

Kids Still Getting Injured After Swallowing High-Powered Magnets
October 20, 2023, US News and World Reports
Despite warnings and public education campaigns, kids continue to suffer injuries from swallowing small but strong magnets, according to a new study.  Children are also inserting high-powered, rare-earth balls into their ears and noses, even in households where parents fully understand the dangers of the toys, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. For the study, the researchers reviewed 2017 to 2019 data from patients aged 21 and younger from a study that included 25 U.S. children’s hospitals.

What To Do If You Feel Like You’ve Lost Your Intuition
October 19, 2023, Harvard Business Review
It can be disconcerting to feel that your intuition isn’t working the way it should. What happens when, as a leader, you feel your intuition is suddenly failing you? In this article, the authors outline five strategies to help you get back in touch with your gut instinct: 1) Lean on your team. 2) Create space in your day to be quiet and reflect. 3) Stop multitasking. 4) Practice small decisions. 5) Don’t worry about perfection.

Fortress Biometric Gun Safes Recalled Due To Injury Hazard And Risk Of Death; One Death Reported
October 18, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission and Fortress Safe, of Naperville, Illinois, announced the recall of about 61,000 biometric gun safes due to a serious safety hazard and risk of death. The cause of the recall is a programming feature that can allow unauthorized access to the safes. This can allow unauthorized users, including children, to access the safe to remove hazardous contents, including firearms. CPSC is aware of a recent lawsuit alleging a 12-year-old boy died from a firearm obtained from one of these safes. 

Right To Repair Becomes Law In California
October 16, 2023, Recycling Today
Apple and HP are among the organizations that supported the legislation. Supporters, including Apple and HP say the bill “is an important way to slow the creation of electronic waste.” The legislation provides for independent repair shops and consumers to access the repair materials they need to keep their products in use and out of the trash.” However, device manufacturer trade associations, including the Consumer Technology Association, National Electronic Manufacturers Association and PRBA – the Rechargeable Battery Association, opposed the bill. 

Update: EU Microplastics Ban Has Gone Into Effect October 17
October 18, 2023, The Toy Association
On September 27, 2023, the European Commission issued Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 to regulate microplastics. These regulations will immediately affect toymakers that use glitter in their products, along with other products that fall under the scope for microplastics, such as microbeads. Although there are some extensions for the implementation timeline of the new measures, they are limited to a few specific applications (including certain cosmetics); all other cases are effectively subject to an immediate ban. 

EU Advocate General Argues That Harmonized Technical Standards Must Be Freely Available
October 19, 2023, Cooley Productwise
In a case brought by two nonprofit organizations against the judgment of the EU General Court (the EU junior court) upholding the European Commission’s decision refusing to grant access to four harmonized technical standards (HTS), the Advocate General (AG) argued that the Court of Justice of the European Union (the EU senior court) should annul the General Court’s judgment and the European Commission’s decision and order the European Commission to grant the two nonprofit organizations access to the standards. If the Court of Justice endorses the AG’s reasoning, this might have groundbreaking effects, as it could open the way to requiring HTS to be made freely available.

September 2023 Prop 65 Bounty Hunter Plaintiff Claims
October 16, 2023, National Law Review
In September of 2023, product manufacturers, distributors, and retailers were the targets of over 294 new Notices of Violation (“Notices”) and amended Notices, alleging a violation of Prop. 65 for failure to provide a warning for their products. This was based on the alleged presence of the following chemicals in these products. Noteworthy trends and categories from Notices sent in September 2023 are excerpted and discussed below. A complete list of Notices sent in September 2023 can be found on the California Attorney General’s website, located at 60-Day Notice Search.

CPSC Signals Its Regulatory Interest In PFAS
October 17, 2023, National Law Review
On September 20, 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a Federal Register Notice and Request for Information^. The agency asked for public comment about the use and presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in “consumer products” under its jurisdiction. By issuing this Request for Information, CPSC has signaled its interest in joining the EPA, FDA and Department of Agriculture, along with several state and municipal jurisdictions, in studying and potentially regulating PFAS.

Pressure Rises On Online Retailers To Fight Fakes
October 17, 2023, Rollcall
From clothes and shoes to electronics and even aircraft engine parts, online retail sites and social media marketplaces are awash in counterfeit products. Of 13,000 online consumers surveyed in 17 countries by the Michigan State University Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection, nearly 3 out of 4 reported having bought counterfeit products Consumer advocates and legal experts are urging Congress to pass legislation to make online platforms liable for dangers posed by counterfeit goods by putting them on par with brick-and-mortar stores. Now, Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s panel on intellectual property and Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., the panel’s top Republican, are pursuing legislation that would hold the platforms liable for the sale of counterfeits.

UK: Where Is The Design Industry In Terms Of Right To Repair?
October 20, 2023, Design Week
With the right to repair rising on the agenda we spoke to the Restart Project, designers and the Design Council about barriers from understanding and skills to legislation. Design Council senior Policy and advocacy manager Matilda Agace discusses how circularity and sustainable design has been on the Design Council’s agenda for many years – she describes encountering a mid-90s leaflet on the subject in the archive – but a focus on repairability is more recent, and particularly comes to the fore in this year’s edition of its Design for Planet Festival.

U.S. Advances First Safety Requirements For Infant Rockers After Nearly A Dozen Deaths
October 11, 2023, NBC News
The Consumer Product Safety Commission voted unanimously to move forward with the proposal developed by its staff, which was unveiled last month. The recommendations come after the agency tallied 11 deaths associated with the reclined seats from 2011 to 2022, most of which happened after infants fell asleep in them. CPSC staff found that the popular products were also associated with 88 injuries in that 12-year period. “I believe that this rule can have a real impact on the safety of these products,” CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric said. The regulations must go through public comment and review before they are finalized.

U.S. Senate reintroduces SHOP SAFE Act to protect online buyers
October 5, 2023, The Toy Association (™)
U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) reintroduced the SHOP SAFE Act on September 28 to protect consumers from harmful counterfeit products that are sold online. The SHOP SAFE Act emphasizes the need for online platforms to meet the same requirements and liabilities for harmful counterfeit goods as traditional brick-and-mortar businesses. “We commend U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Thom Tillis for their leadership in addressing the pressing need to safeguard consumers, particularly children, from illicit products that are infiltrating online platforms,” stated Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of The Toy Association which backs the legislation.

Out Of Business: Producer Leaves Consumers No Remedy On Recalled
October 12, 2023, ABC 27 News
The Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that The FORT’s Children’s play tents have been recalled due to laceration and choking hazards. According to the Commission, magnets that connect various parts of the forts can become dislodged, creating potential choking and laceration hazards. The FORT is no longer in business, so there is no remedy for consumers. The Commission says there have so far been 17 reports of loose or broken magnets associated with the play tents resulting in laceration injuries to two adults and a pinched finger to one child. The Commission reminds consumers that it is against federal law to sell or distribute recalled products.

The Delicate Dynamics Of Challenging A Superior
October 12, 2023, MIT Sloan Management Review
The act of challenging a superior necessitates more than just raising one’s voice; it involves understanding, navigating, and engaging in the subtle yet complex dance of power dynamics, diplomacy and mutual respect. Approaching someone above you in the professional hierarchy requires a delicate balance and a deep understanding of both the person and the situation. For those keen on maintaining professional decorum and growing in their roles, this guide can help ensure that your challenging conversations are both constructive and respectful.

Commissioner Feldman Requests Comments On Proposed Gas Furnace Safety Standard
October 11, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission voted to publish a proposed safety standard to reduce carbon monoxide (CO) injuries and deaths caused by residential gas furnaces and boilers. I voted to advance this rulemaking because of the deadly hazard CO presents, and to seek public input to strengthen it. I am concerned that, however we calculate it, the difference between cost and benefit is large and may subject this rulemaking to legal challenge. I would be particularly interested in hearing from stakeholders regarding two questions: What factors should the Commission use to determine when a cost-benefit relationship is “reasonable?” And how should the Commission apply such factors in this specific rulemaking?

US Customs And CPSC Seize Hair Dryers At The Peace Bridge
October 11, 2023, NBC 2 WGAZ
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Peace Bridge in Buffalo seized hair dryers on behalf of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CBP officers seized 65 hair dryers. According to the CPSC, the hair dryers did not have “integral immersion protection”, which is required for the “Standard for Safety for Household Electric Personal Grooming Appliances.”

PFAS Litigation Update: The Risks Of Consumer Product Marketing Claims
October 11, 2023, JD Supra
As general awareness of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) has continued to rise in recent years, courts have experienced an increase in civil lawsuits alleging false and misleading advertising in corporate marketing statements for consumer products. Most of the lawsuits filed in 2021 and 2022 focused primarily on four categories of products: Food and food packaging; cosmetics; clothing and textiles; and personal care products.

Tesla Australia Pays Penalties For Alleged Breach Of Button Battery Safety Standards
October 12, 2023, The National Tribune
Car manufacturer Tesla Motors Australia Pty Ltd has paid penalties of $155,460 after the ACCC issued it with ten infringement notices. The notices were for allegedly failing to comply with mandatory safety standards for products powered by button batteries, in breach of the Australian Consumer Law. The ACCC alleges Tesla failed to conduct the required safety tests before supplying three of its key fob models and two of its illuminated door sill models and failed to provide the mandatory safety warnings on these products as required by the standard. Since the ACCC started investigating the issue, Tesla has removed the products from sale and started testing them. 

When Toys Go Wrong: Hidden Hazards To Watch Out For
October 12, 2023, ABC2WMAR
Make sure the most wonderful time of the year isn’t the most dangerous one. Before you buy, make sure the toys are safe. According to the consumer product safety commission, emergency rooms treated over 224 thousand toy-related injuries last year. Dangers can be found everywhere. First know the classic toy dangers, such as small parts, strings, projectiles, toxic substances, rigid materials, and inaccurate warning labels.

Utah Sues TikTok Over Child Safety Issues And Its Links To China
October 11, 2023, Engadget
Utah has sued TikTok over child safety issues and the company’s China-based ownership, CNBC has reported. In the complaint, attorney general Sean Reyes called the app “an addictive product” and accused it of misleading users about its relationship with China-based parent company ByteDance. The state recently enacted some of the strictest social media laws in the country, requiring parental permission for teens to use social media. The lawsuit compares TikTok to a slot machine that provides “dopamine manipulation” triggered by swiping up on videos. 

‘Game-Changer’: EPA Issues Final Reporting Rule On ‘Forever’ Chemicals
October 11, 2023, Safety + Health Magazine
 An Environmental Protection Agency final rule will require manufacturers and importers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances to report information on PFAS use, exposures and hazards. EPA has determined that the rulemaking will cover at least 1,462 PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals” because they break down slowly over time – and potentially impact industries including construction, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and waste management and remediation. Published on Oct. 11 and set to go into effect Nov. 13, the rule requires anyone who has manufactured or imported PFAS since 2011 to report certain data.

The Two Final Rules That Implement Reese’s Law
October 4, 2023, Retail & Consumer Products Law Observer
In March 2023, proposed safety standards were issued by the Consumer Products Safety Commission under Reese’s Law, a law aimed at protecting children 6 years of age and younger from the hazards of ingesting button cell and coin batteries. On September 21, 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission published two final rules in the Federal Register for 16 CFR 1263. The comprehensive nature of the final rules means that manufacturers need to act quickly and carefully to ensure compliance with the new labeling, packaging and testing requirements.

Rolling Candy Sold Nationwide Recalled After Death Of 7-Year-Old
October 5, 2023, CBS News
Two candy makers are recalling products sold nationwide because they contain rolling balls that can detach into a child’s mouth and pose a choking hazard, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said. The federal agency’s warning comes six months after a seven-year-old New York girl choked and died after a Cocco Candy Rolling Candy ball dislodged and became trapped in her throat. A separate recall involves a similar product with the same potential danger, CPSC said. Carmel, Indiana-based Candy Dynamics is recalling 70 million Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy sold from June 2015 through July 2023 said the Agency.

Research: Can You Tell How You Come Across On Zoom?
October 6, 2023, Harvard Business Review
If you want to make a good impression and gauge what a colleague actually thinks of you, should you meet in-person or over videoconference? This is the question the authors explored in their research. The answer largely depends on whether you’re feeling anxious about social interaction. Most of us have moments when we feel a bit more socially anxious than usual. In those cases, setting a meeting on Zoom might level out the playing field, allowing you to be as aware of your impression as someone who is feeling more secure.

IKEA makes bold design move that could affect the safety of all furniture
October 5, 2023, Ideal Home
IKEA is making its new safety innovation, Anchor and Unlock, available to all furniture manufacturers, which reduces the risk of furniture tip-over accidents. While IKEA prides itself on unique innovations in home furnishing, they’ve announced a patent pledge which will allow other furniture manufacturers to adopt the Anchor and Unlock tip-over safety innovation. “At IKEA, we are proud of our innovation, and we protect it with our patents. But in this case, we hope others will adopt Anchor and Unlock for their products as well,” says Carl Ervér, patent manager at IKEA of Sweden.

Children’s Book Series Pulled From Shelves In Multiple Countries Over Safety Issue
October 2, 2023, Popculture.com
A novelty children’s book series was recalled in both the U.S. and Canada due to a serious choking hazard posed by the small pieces included. The books are called “Rainbow Road Series Board Books,” and they are made from sturdy card stock bound with colorful plastic rings. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission those rings can be detached and swallowed by children. So far, there have been two reported incidents in the U.S. and one in Australia, but regulators feared that this issue could have gotten worse without intervention.

New Standards Shield Australian Kids From Choking Dangers
October 6, 2023, Mirage News
Every year in Australia, an estimated 2,500 children under three years old visit to hospital emergency departments because of injuries from unsuitable or dangerous toys. The Australian Government has approved, with consultation and advice from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), a new mandatory safety standard for toys marketed at children under three years. The new safety standard focuses on minimizing choking and suffocation risks for small children. The ACCC will enforce the new toy safety standard which will make it mandatory for all toys marketed at children under three to adhere to strict design and testing requirements ensuring toys do not contain small parts.

Australian Consumers Urged To Use And Store Lithium-Ion Batteries Safely To Prevent Deadly Fires
October 5, 2023, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
The ACCC is warning consumers about rare but serious fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries and is asking consumers to choose, check, use and dispose of the batteries safely, in its latest report. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are contained in common household items. Whilst incidents are rare, they appear to be increasing and are serious when they occur. The batteries can overheat or explode if they are used, charged or disposed of incorrectly or if they are damaged. Fires caused by the batteries can be dangerous and difficult to extinguish. 

Britons Warned Of Major Law Changes Coming Soon With Overhaul Of Electric Scooter Rules
October 5, 2023, GBN
New changes are set to be introduced in the coming months which will have a huge impact on electric scooter riders around the UK. From December 5, 2023, all new and existing members of electric scooter trials must provide their name and driving license number. In addition, they must submit a photograph of the front of their driving license under new minimum standards of verification. E-scooter operators must ensure they have robust systems in place for capturing and storing the information.

How Technology Can Reshape The Elderly Healthcare System
October 6, 2023, Techbullion.com
While older adults were viewed as laggards when it comes to new technologies, statistics reveal a different reality. During the pandemic, they turned to telehealth, smartphone apps, and other digital solutions. This underscores how technology can make healthcare more patient-centric for the elderly. These tools lower barriers and enable remote care options for them. Telemedicine and mHealth apps ranked among the top digital health technologies used by older adults. As per a Health Affairs study, ownership of smartphones surged from just 18% in 2013 to 61-83% among the 50+ age group in 2021. With so many people embracing these technologies, it’s clear that the future of adult primary care will be shaped by a digital revolution.

The US Government Seems Ready To Order A Recall Of Millions Of Air Bag Inflators For Safety Concerns
October 5, 2023, Associated Press
The U.S. government appears poised to order a recall of millions of air bag inflators due to a manufacturing flaw that could send metal shrapnel rocketing through a car’s interior. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration held a public hearing to field commentary and testimony on inflators made by ARC Automotive Inc. of Knoxville, Tennessee, which supplies the devices to air bag makers and several major auto companies. At least 25 million vehicles containing ARC-made air bags could be affected. At the heart of the issue is a metal inflator canister inside the airbag device. The government contends that a crucial flaw could cause this canister to “rupture” upon impact. Instead of releasing pressurized gas to inflate the air bag, the canister essentially explodes, sending metal shrapnel into the vehicle at head height.

Unlocking Strategic Insights By Leveraging Data Analytics In Product Management
September 14, 2023, Dataversity-California
In the dynamic landscape of contemporary business, data analytics in product management has become a pivotal driver of success. Data analytics, the systematic exploration of data sets to glean valuable insights, has revolutionized how companies design, develop, and refine their products. This transformative tool empowers product managers with a nuanced understanding of customer preferences, market trends, and performance metrics, ultimately steering their decision-making with precision and enhancing their strategic edge. Understanding the intricate interplay between data analytics and product management necessitates delving into the various product lifecycle stages.

BJ’s Wholesale Club Agrees To Pay $9 Million Civil Penalty For Failure To Report Portable Air Conditioners Posing Burn And Fire Hazards; One Death Reported
September 9, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is announcing that BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. of Marlborough, Massachusetts, has agreed to pay a $9 million civil penalty. The settlement resolves CPSC’s charges that BJ’s knowingly failed to immediately report to CPSC, as required by law, that portable air conditioners manufactured by Royal Sovereign International, Inc. and sold by BJ’s contained a defect that could create a substantial product hazard and created an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death to consumers. 

CPSC Issues Safety Warning For Certain Bassinets Sold Online Due To Suffocation, Strangulation, Fall Risk; Importer Not Offering Remedy To Consumers
September 28, 2023, ABC news 33/40
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using 5in1 Rocker Bassinets because they pose suffocation, strangulation and fall hazards to infants. The bassinets fail to meet the safety requirements of CPSC’s Infant Sleep Products Rule and do not conform to the requirements for bassinets. In addition, the products lack required markings, labeling and instructions. The importer, Rev. Grace Import Inc., of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, is not cooperating with the CPSC on the recall of this product and not offering a remedy to consumers.

How To Be A Better Leader Amid Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity And Ambiguity
September 27, 2023, Harvard Business Review
More than three decades ago, the U.S. Army War College developed a framework for understanding how leaders succeed during times of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity. The framework, known as VUCA, turns out to be better at describing what successful leaders do than teaching all leaders how to succeed. The authors present an updated approach that has generated positive outcomes in military, business and sports contexts.

Sens. Coons, Tillis Introduce Bill To Crack Down On Harmful Counterfeit E-Commerce Goods
September 26, 2023, Sen. Chris Coons
The bipartisan bill, Stopping Harmful Offers on Platforms by Screening Against Fakes in E-Commerce (SHOP SAFE) Act, was introduced by Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Tom Tillis (R-NC) to protect consumers from harmful counterfeit products sold online. The SHOP SAFE Act is endorsed by the American Apparel & Footwear Association, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the Toy Association, the National Association of Manufacturers and the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America.

Analysis: Preparing For The Legal Effects Of PFAS Legislation And Litigation On Your Business
September 27, 2023, JD Supra
If a business involves manufacturing or sale of physical products, odds are that it will be impacted one way or another by developments in legislation or case law involving per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemical substances (PFAS). Current PFAS-centered litigation is primarily focused on drinking water contamination, as well as with firefighting. However, it is expected that many other routes of exposure to PFAS will become the focus of litigation. The manufacturers, distributors and sellers of these PFAS-containing products will be included in the next wave of defendants.

Is Your Child At Risk Due To Their Toys? Pediatricians Issue Worldwide Alert For Parents
September 27, 2023, Zoom TV
As parents, we do a lot to keep our kids safe. We childproof our homes, choose the best car seats, and teach them to cross the road safely. But one area of child safety that often gets overlooked is the toys our kids play with. Pediatricians around the world are warning parents about potential risks associated with seemingly safe toys.

CPSC Announces $2 Million In Grants To Help Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
September 18, 2023, cpsc.gov
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is seeking applications for its Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Grant Program (COPPGP). The grants are intended to reduce deaths and injuries from carbon monoxide poisoning. “More than 400 Americans die each year from CO poisoning,” said CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric. “Carbon monoxide alarms save lives by alerting people to the poison before it is too late. These grants will enable localities to educate their residents and prevent CO poisoning in their communities,” he said.

Six Ways AI Will Revolutionize Risk Mitigation
September 26, 2023, Manufacturing.net
Among the most notable advancements is the integration of artificial intelligence, which provides businesses with significant capabilities in risk mitigation. By leveraging AI-driven solutions, manufacturers and distributors can proactively identify, analyze, and address potential risks—ultimately ensuring smoother operations, reduced losses and improved resilience. Here are several of the key areas where AI has the potential to revolutionize risk management.

Norwegian Research Reveals Link Between PFAS And Delayed Puberty
September 26, 2023, Nutrition Insight|
New research presented at the 61st Annual European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology Meeting has shed light on a connection between synthetic chemicals found in everyday products, such as water-resistant clothing, umbrellas and food packaging and delayed puberty in children. The study, led by Dr. Ingvild Halsør Forthun and a team of researchers in Norway, examined 19 different PFAS chemicals in 420 boys and 618 girls aged six to 16 as part of the Bergen Growth Study 2.

Study Shows: Kids Participating In Sports Need Eye Protection
September 27, 2023, Family Safety & Health
Sports-related eye injuries increased nearly 20% last year compared with 2021, according to estimates from advocacy group Prevent Blindness. Researchers developed the 2022 estimates based on data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the National Injury Information Clearinghouse and the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. Prevent Blindness says athletes of all ages should wear protective eyewear while participating in sports. According to the National Eye Institute, protective eyewear can prevent 9 out of 10 sports-related eye injuries.

Many Common Cleaning Products Contain Harmful Chemicals—It’s Safer To Go ‘Green’
 September 27, 2023, Health.com
 New research found that many popular cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can have harmful effects on your health. Green products—including products without fragrance—emitted the lowest quantities and concentrations of VOCs. Experts recommend choosing products with a third-party seal, like “A Safer Choice,” a “UL ECOLOGO,” or “Green Seal” in order to ensure you’re picking a safer option.

Children Of Color And From Low-Income Families Disproportionately Harmed By Toxic Chemicals, Study Finds
September 27, 2023, Stat News
Children are often exposed to harmful chemicals in air, water, soil, food, food packaging, and plastics. However, low-income children and children of color are disproportionately impacted by these exposures, according to the authors of a study that examines disparities in neurotoxic exposures and their harmful effects on children by race, ethnicity, and economic status. The review, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, highlights racial disparities in toxic chemical exposures and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. The researchers analyzed 218 epidemiological studies conducted over nearly 50 years that examined exposures to air pollution, lead, mercury, organophosphate pesticides, phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and polychlorinated biphenyls.