CPSIA Overview

The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) is a sweeping new law that impacts a broad spectrum of our economy. From manufacturers of toys to the kids that play with them, everyone is affected in some way; even those who make and donate products to hospitals and charities (CPSC - Guidance March 2009).

The CPSIA was signed into law in 2008 and mandates that products, designed and marked to children 12 years of age and under, must be tested for lead and that level of lead below certain specific levels, which will decrease over time.

There are many aspects of the CPSIA that you may need to be aware of:

• Regulations
• Testing Methods and Standards
• FAQs

Here are a few links from the www.cpsc.gov website with more information:

• Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) (CPSIA) Home Page
• CPSC Extends Stay of Enforcement on Testing and Certification Requirements for Children’s Products - CPSC (12/18/09)
• Consumer Product Safety Commission Business CPSIA Guidance
• Consumer Product Safety Commission FAQs
• List of Accredited Testing Laboratories CPSC approved laboratories
• Study on the Effectiveness, Precision, and Reliability of X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry and Other Alternative Methods for Measuring Lead in Paint
• Guidance Document: Testing and Certification Requirements Under the CPSIA
• Guide to the CPSIA for Small Businesses, Resellers, Crafters and Charities