Washington State investigates cadmium and phthalates in children's products

On October 16, Washington Toxics Coalition (WTC) requires investigation on children’s apparel and personal care, and action be taken for enterprises on such violation against the Children’s Safe Products Act (CSPA) for cadmium and phthalates.

According to CPSC, Washington prohibits the sale of children’s products containing cadmium above 40ppm and phthalates at more than 1,000ppm. The requirements of Washington State are stricter than those of the United States. However, such requirements should be fulfilled within the state.

Substance	CPSC	ASTM F 963	CPSIA/HR4040
Cadmium	40ppm	75ppm
Phthalate	0.1%		0.1%

 
The Washington Department of Ecology will investigate received reports, require operators disclose the specific products that in violation against standards, and take possible legal action at request of WTC.
 
Reminder: The Washington Department of Ecology has always underlined that product test is the best and most reliable way to ensure the products are compliant with regulations. Therefore, exporters should pay attention to the difference between state bills and federal laws before products are available in the United States. It’s advisable for operators and buyers to test products in accordance with standards so as to avoid punishment enforced by authorities.