CPSIA Becomes a Reality
08-22-2009
By Mike Rozembajgier
August 14, 2009
During 2007 and 2008, more than 33 million consumers reported injuries due to faulty or substandard products, and more than 45 million items were pulled from the shelves in the toy and children’s products markets alone. Companies that fail to understand the new rules and follow them could experience lost revenues, damaged reputations, possible litigation and fines up to $15 million.
Over the past year, the product recall environment has become consistently more stringent. New Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) regulations take effect today. From increased lead limitations to strict children’s product tracking label requirements, the new regulations increase quality requirements while giving the CPSC greater authority to order product recalls.
Manufacturers subject to a recall must have a recall plan ready to present for regulatory approval, and then must implement the recall quickly and effectively. The legislation requires the CPSC to investigate the effectiveness of a product recall and gives the CPSC and state attorneys general new power to hold manufacturers and retailers responsible for compliance.
Unfortunately many manufacturers are still not adequately informed about the potential negative implications to their business and the increased levels of risk they face under these new standards. Small and medium-sized companies alike must now navigate the new rules. But there are resources available for businesses and retailers to help clarify the new rules. It is possible for companies to prepare for future changes in legislation and mitigate risks.
Stericycle ExpertRECALL™ is the industry leader in recall logistics and regulatory compliance for consumer product, pharmaceutical, medical device, juvenile product, and food and beverage recalls. ExpertRECALL’s professionals are experts in recall management who can help you streamline the entire product recall process.
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