Testing Methods

Under the CPSIA, firms must meet the total lead content for all children's products in ADDITION to meeting F963 leachable limit for toys.

In most cases, the total lead content is the stricter standard, but in some cases it is possible that the F963 leachable limit will be the stricter standard. The scope of each is different, but where both are applicable, both are required. Indeed, CPSC has published methods for testing the total lead content of paint, metals and non-metals, and F963 contains the method for its prescribed leachable test.

The following link CPSC-CH-E1001-08 is for the test method referenced in the lab accreditation regulation for total lead in children’s jewelry and would apply to all children’s metal containing product.

The CPSC has not yet issued a requirement for testing lead in non-metal products, due to the stay on testing and certification. However, they have issued a Standard Operating Procedure for testing for the total lead content in non-metal product. The following link is for the standard operating procedure CPSC-CH-E1002-08

The CPSC has issued Standard Operating Procedure for Determining Lead (Pb) in Paint and Other Similar Surface Coatings* Please use the following link CPSC-CH-E1003-09