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What's Lurking in the Toy Box?
Keeping Babies and Toddlers Safe from Hazardous Toys
By Teri Brown
"Both China and the USA have laws restricting the amount of lead content allowed," Manion says. "China's laws are actually stricter than the USA standard but poorly enforced. The price pressure from importers in the USA has resulted in some Chinese manufacturers substituting paint with a higher than acceptable lead content (without the knowledge or complicity of the importer) rather than turning down a large order from a major retailer or importer."
According to Manion, parents should check the label on toys they purchase for their children to make sure that they were tested and certified by a recognized independent third party testing laboratory.
"At this time this is the only reliable method of assuring a product has met all requirements for importation into this country," Manion says. "Also political pressure on Congress to enact more stringent regulations for substances of concern similar to the European REACH initiatives would be beneficial. In addition, toys you purchase should bear the CE Marking as a demonstration of compliance with international safety standards."
Finally, Manion says, children under the age of 6 should be regularly tested for lead exposure.
Phthalates are found in many plastics. They are added to keep the product soft and pliable and are used in many children's toys. There have been questions regarding their safety and some states have banned their use or are in the process of banning them. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed a bill that will ban the use of six phthalates in children's toys and products. Supporters of the bill consider it a victory.
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