29 Nov 2012

Oak Brook, IL It is critical for manufacturers and retailers to understand whether or not their merchandise qualifies as a children’s product since they are subject to rigorous standards and regulations around the globe. In the United States, identifying this will become even more crucial beginning Feb. 8, 2013, when the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) Testing and Certification Rule goes into effect. Under the Testing and Certification Rule, children’s products manufactured after Feb. 8, 2013, will need to not only be tested and certified as compliant with CPSC standards, but must also meet additional recordkeeping requirements, including storage of a technical file that includes documentation of a production testing plan, material changes and remedial actions and necessary recertification, and development of undue influence policies and training.

So, how do you know if that product on your store shelf qualifies as a children’s product? The CPSC defines children’s products as “a consumer product designed or intended primarily for children 12 years of age or younger.” In addition, retailers and manufacturers need to take into consideration the message conveyed in packaging, labelling and advertising, general appeal of the product to children, the principle use of the product and age determination guidelines.

In an effort to help retailers and manufacturers determine if products qualify as children’s products and CPSC recordkeeping requirements, Intertek produced a video that highlights the different aspects and characteristics unique to children’s products. The video can be viewed at: https://www.intertek.com/toys/determine-a-childrens-product/

In addition, Intertek’s global network features the largest number of labs approved by the CPSC to conduct regulated children’s product testing.*

*Information is accurate as of November 29, 2012.

About Intertek

Intertek is a leading provider of quality and safety solutions serving a wide range of industries around the world.  From auditing and inspection, to testing, quality assurance and certification, Intertek people are dedicated to adding value to customers’ products and processes, supporting their success in the global marketplace. With a network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 33,000 people in more than 100 countries, Intertek helps its clients to meet end users’ expectations across increasingly diverse quality, health, environmental, safety and social accountability aspects in virtually any market around the world. Visit www.intertek.com.

Contact:

Amy Paille, Intertek Consumer Goods North America
Phone: +1.630.481.3163
Email: amy.paille@intertek.com