On 30 August 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a public consultation of 6 potential substances of very high concern (SVHC) and the deadline for commenting is 14 October, 2024.Once the public consultation is approved, these 6 substances will be added to the list of SVHC as the 32nd batch of SVHC substances.
The 6 substances proposed to be added to the SVHC candidate list on 30 August 2024 and their hazardous properties are detailed as below:
| No. | Substances Name | EC No. | CAS No. | Reason for Proposing | Use |
| 1 | 6-[(C10-C13)-alkyl-(branched, unsaturated)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl]hexanoic acid | 701-118-1 | 2156592-54-8 | Toxic for reproduction (Article 57c) | Hydraulic oil, lubricating oil and grease, and metalworking fluid. |
| 2 | O,O,O-triphenyl phosphorothioate | 209-909-9 | 597-82-0 | Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) (Article 57d) | Lubricants and greases |
| 3 | Octamethyltrisiloxane | 203-497-4 | 107-51-7 | Very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) (Article 57e) | Cosmetics and personal care products, as well as washing and cleaning products. |
| 4 | Perfluamine | 206-420-2 | 338-83-0 | Very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) (Article 57e) | Electrical, electronic, optical equipment and machinery, and vehicles. |
| 5 | Reaction mass of: triphenylthiophosphate and tertiary butylated phenyl derivatives | 421-820-9 | 192268-65-8 | Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) (Article 57d) | Hydraulic oil, lubricating oil, and grease. |
| 6 | Tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched) phosphite | 701-028-2 | / | Endocrine disrupting properties (Article 57(f) ā environment) | Adhesives and sealants, coating products, and polymers. |
In order to strengthen the regulation of PFAS (perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and ensure that relevant enterprises and individuals can report in detail the production, import, and use of these substances, so that the government can better assess their environmental risks and take corresponding management measures, the Canadian government has issued a new measure in accordance with Section 71 (1) (b) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) of 1999. This measure requires responsible parties within Canada to submit PFAS data information produced, imported, or used as individual substances, mixtures, or items within 2023 by January 29, 2025. This requirement covers 312 known or expected PFAS for commercial use, with a list divided into three parts: Part 1 (273 items), Part 2 (26 items), and Part 3 (13 items).
Responsible parties and scope to be reported:
- manufactured a total quantity greater than 1000 g of any substance listed in Schedule 1;
- imported a total quantity greater than 10 g of any substance listed in Part 1 of Schedule 1, or a total quantity greater than 100 kg of any substance listed in Part 2 or Part 3 of Schedule 1, whether the substance was alone, or at a concentration equal to or above 1 ppm in a mixture, in a product or in the 12 specified categories;
- imported a total quantity greater than 100 kg of any substance listed in Schedule 1 at a concentration equal to or above 1 ppm in a manufactured item NOT listed in the 12 specified categories of manufactured items;
- used a total quantity greater than 10 g of any substance listed in Schedule 1, whether the substance was alone, or at a concentration equal to or above 1 ppm in a mixture or in a product, in the manufacture of a mixture, a product or a manufactured item.
Scope of 12 specific items:
| 1. that is intended to be used by or for children under the age of 14 years. | 2. that is intended to come into contact with the mucosa of an individual. | 3. that is used as intended in a manner such that the substance may be inhaled, or come into dermal or oral contact with an individual. |
| 4. that is cookware, or a cooking or serving utensil that is intended to come into direct contact with heated food or beverage. | 5. that is food packaging material, including single-serve/disposable bowls, plates, cups, other serving-ware, as well as food cans and lid liners, that are intended to or may come into direct contact with food or beverage. | 6. that is a reusable food or beverage container. |
| 7. that is food processing equipment, including conveyor belts, trays, vats, nozzles, moulds, and cutters that come into contact with food or beverage prior to packaging and distribution. | 8. that is clothing or footwear, including life jackets, personal flotation devices, and other safety apparel. | 9. that is bedding, sleeping bags, or towels. |
| 10. that is furniture, mattresses, cushions or pillows intended to be used by an individual, where the substance is contained in foam or leather or in a textile fibre, yarn or fabric. | 11. that is carpet, vinyl or laminate flooring, or foam underlay for flooring, intended to be used by an individual. | 12. such that the substance is intended to be released from the manufactured item. |
Conditions for exemption report:
This notice does not apply to a substance, whether alone, in a mixture, in a product or in a manufactured item that
| 1. is only in transit through Canada | 2. is for personal use | 3. is intended for use in a laboratory for analysis, in scientific research or as a laboratory standard |
| 4. is, or is contained in, a hazardous waste or hazardous recyclable material within the meaning of the Cross-border Movement of Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Recyclable Material Regulations and was exported or imported pursuant to a permit issued under these Regulations | 5. is, or is contained in, a pest control product registered under the Pest Control Products Act | 6. is, or is contained in a fertilizer or supplement registered under the Fertilizers Act |
| 7. is, or is contained in, a feed registered under the Feeds Act | 8. is mixed with, or attached to, a seed registered under the Seeds Act | 9. This notice does not apply to any person or class of persons who meet the definition of a micro-business(Less than five employees or annual revenue less than $30000) |
Information required:
The company name, address, business number, contact information of the person in charge, and detailed information on the production, use, and import volume of each chemical substance of an individual or enterprise.
Precautions for submitting reports:
Information can be submitted in response to notifications through the Single Window online sumbission system of Environment and Climate Change Canada. If you need to apply for an extension of the report, you must submit the application at least 5 working days before the deadline (January 29, 2025) and provide a suggested new submission date. Please indicate ‘PFAS Notification Extension Request’ in the subject line of the email. Extension requests submitted after the deadline of January 29, 2025 will not be approved.
Source: https://canadagazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p1/2024/2024-07-27/html/sup-eng.html
1. New Hampshire issues a bill restricts the use of PFAS in certain consumer products
On August 6, 2024, the Governor of New Hampshire approved Bill HB 1649, the Bill relative to prohibiting certain products with intentionally added PFAS. The specific requirements are as follows:
| Product Scope | Substances | Requirements | Effective date | Exemption |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| rugs treatments hygiene products and containers products furniture furnishings | PFAS | Prohibited if intentionally added | July 1, 2027 | (1) Products made with at least 85 percent recycled content. (2) Products manufactured prior to the ban imposed by this section. (3) Replacement parts for products manufactured prior to the ban imposed by this section |
2. CPSC proposes to revise the requirements for toys containing button cell or coin cell batteries
On August 13, 2024, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPR). CPSC proposes to address the risk of injury and death associated with children ingesting button cell or coin cell batteries obtained from toys by adding performance and labeling requirements for battery-operated toys containing such batteries. The proposed requirements would provide the highest level of safety feasible, and are consistent with the Commissionās recent Reeseās Law rulemaking and international standards for electronic toys. The Commission also proposes to amend CPSCās list of notice of requirements (NORs) to include toys containing button cell or coin cell batteries. The public comment period will be open until October 15, 2024.
3. Pennsylvania updates āStuffed Toy Manufacturing Actā
On June 28, 2024, the Governor of Pennsylvania approved Bill HB1333, amending the āStuffed Toy Manufacturing Actā originally passed in 1961, which did did not previously consider the use of recycled materials in stuffed toys. The amendment brings Pennsylvania in line with global stuffed toy requirements, allowing manufacturers and retailers to produce and sell stuffed toys with recycled materials within the state, as they do in the rest of the country.
https://legiscan.com/PA/bill/HB1333/2023
4. EPA proposes to list five chemicals as TSCA High-Priority Substances for risk evaluation
On July 25, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or Agency) published a notice ļ¼under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and related implementing regulations, the EPA is proposing to designate acetaldehyde (CASRN 75-07-0), acrylonitrile (CASRN 107-13-1), benzenamine (CASRN 62-53-3), vinyl chloride (CASRN 75-01-4), and 4,4-methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) (MBOCA) (CASRN 101-14-4) as High-Priority Substances for risk evaluation. EPA is providing a 90-day comment period, during which interested persons may submit comments on the proposed designations of these chemicals as High-Priority Substances for risk evaluation.
5. EU officially confirmed to revise POPs regulation to add restriction of Methoxychlor
On July 22, 2024, the European Commission announced the revised draft of the POPs Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 has been adopted, that determined the restrictions on Methoxychlor will be added to Annex I of the POPs Regulation. The EU Official Journal is expected to publish the revised regulation shortly. The list of POPs Annex I prohibited substances will also be increased from 29 to 30.The concentrations of methoxychlor equal to or below 0,01 mg/kg (0,000001 % by weight) where they are present in substances, mixtures or article.
6. EU proposes to revise POPs regulation to add restriction of UV-328
On July 30, 2024, the European Union released a revised draft act of the POPs Regulation (EU) 2019/1021. This draft act amends Annex I to the Regulation to include 2-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4,6
ditertpentylphenol (UV-328) plus as a substance subject to certain restrictions. This draft act is open for feedback from Juiy 30 2024 to August 27, 2024. The restriction requirement is: The concentrations of dechlorane plus equal to or below 1 mg/kg (0, 0001 % by weight) where they are present in substances, mixtures or articles.
7. REACH SVHC adds one new intended substances
On August 6, 2024, ECHA added Barium chromate to the SVHC intended substances list. ECHA plans to initiate a public review of these substances in February 2025. If approved, these substances are expected to be officially added to SVHC in June 2025. At present, there are 12 SVHC intended substances.
https://echa.europa.eu/registry-of-svhc-intentions
8. EU Releases Second Edition of the Technical Guide on Metals and Alloys Used in Food ContactMaterials and Articles for manufacturers and regulators
On August 1, 2024, the European Medicines Agency released the new version of the āTechnical Guide on Metals and Alloys Used in Food Contact Materials and Articlesā (EDQM), replacing the old version CM/Res (2013) 9. This guide has been widely recognized and is considered a reference standard for the safety and quality of metal materials and products.
This revision is based on Resolution CM/Res (2020)9 and takes into account the scientific opinions issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) since 2013 and the research results of relevant national risk assessment agencies (such as BfR, ANSES). The main updates include:
- Updated element release limits (SRL)
| Substance Name | Previous Limit (SRL) mg/kg | New Limit (SRL) mg/kg |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium | 0.250 | 1 |
| Manganese | 1.8 | 0.55 |
| Thallium | 0.0001 | 0.001 |
| Zirconium | / | 2 |
2. Updated test conditions referring to the JRC guidelines, aligning with the āTest Conditions for Kitchen Utensils in Contact with Food: Plastics, Metals, Silicone Rubbers, and Rubbers, Paperboardā 4th edition 2023.
3. Removed the declaration of conformity section from the first edition to comply with the guidelines specified in Section 8.2 of Resolution CM/Res(2020)9.
4. Clarified the requirements for determining disposable metal and alloy products: the first migration amount ā¤ SRL.
https://freepub.edqm.eu/publications/PUBSD-128/detail?_refluxos=a10
9. New requirements for EU battery and waste battery regulations have come into effect
The batteries and waste batteries regulation (EU) 2023/1542 was published on July 28, 2023. The new regulation provides more comprehensive supervision of the entire battery industry chain, regulates the entire life cycle of batteries from production to reuse and recycling, and has a great impact on battery related enterprises. The new battery regulation stipulates that new requirements such as harmful substances and CE labeling for batteries will come into effect on August 18, 2024.
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023R1542
10. EU proposes to revise Annex XVII of REACH regulation to add restrictions on N, N dimethylacetamide (DMAC) and N-ethylpyrrolidone (NEP)
On 30 July 30, 2024, the EU submitted to the WTO Circular G/TBT/N/EU/1079 proposing amendments to Annex XVII of REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 to add restrictions on N,N-dimethylacetamine (DMAC) and N-ethylpyrrolidone (NEP). Specific proposed revisions are as follows:
| Substances Name | CAS No | EC No | Update details |
|---|---|---|---|
| N,N- dimethylacetamide | 127-19-5 | 204-826-4 | 1. Shall not be placed on the market as a substance on its own, as a constituent of other substances, or in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,3 % after ā¦[OP, please insert the date: 18 months after the entry into force of this Regulation] unless manufacturers, importers and downstream users have included in the relevant chemical safety reports and safety data sheets, derived no-effect levels (DNELs) relating to exposure of workers of 13 mg/m3 for long-term exposure by inhalation and 1,8 mg/kg bw/day for long-term dermal exposure. 2. Shall not be manufactured, or used, as a substance on its own, as a constituent of other substances, or in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,3 % afterā¦ [OP, please insert the date: 18 months after the entry into force of this Regulation] unless manufacturers and downstream users take the appropriate risk management measures and provide the appropriate operational conditions to ensure that exposure of workers is below the DNELs specified in paragraph 1. 3. By way of derogation from paragraphs 1 and 2, the obligations laid down therein shall apply from ā¦[OP, please insert the date: 48 months after the entry into force of this Regulation] in relation to placing on the market for use, or use, as a solvent in the production of man-made fibres. |
| 1-ethylpyrrolidin-2-one | 2687-91-4 | 220-250-6 | 1. Shall not be placed on the market as a substance on its own, as a constituent of other substances, or in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,3 % after ā¦[OP, please insert the date: 18 months after the entry into force of this Regulation] unless manufacturers, importers and downstream users have included in the relevant chemical safety reports and safety data sheets, derived no-effect levels (DNELs) relating to exposure of workers of 4,0 mg/m3 for long-term exposure by inhalation and 2,4 mg/kg bw/day for long-term dermal exposure.ć 2. Shall not be manufactured, or used, as a substance on its own, as a constituent of other substances, or in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,3 % after [OP, please insert the date: 18 months after the entry into force of this Regulation] unless manufacturers and downstream users take the appropriate risk management measures and provide the appropriate operational conditions to ensure that exposure of workers is below the DNELs specified in paragraph 1 |
11. Japan ā Approved to Expand the Restriction on PFOA, its isomer or their salts and PFOA- related compounds
On July 10, 2024 the Ministries of Japan has published Cabinet Order no. 244 of 2024 to expand the restriction on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its salts to PFOA, its isomer or their salts and PFOA-related compounds under the Act on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of their Manufacturer etc.
- Designated the following substances as Class 1 Specified Chemical Substances:
- Perfluoro alkanoic acid (limited to those with a branched structure and eight carbon atoms) (PFOA isomers) or their salts.
- PFOA-related substances (perfluorooctyl iodide (PFOI), 8:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (8:2 FTOH), and substances that degrade to PFOA specified by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW), the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and the Ministry of the Environment.)
- Expanded the restriction for āPFOA or its saltsā to āPFOA, its isomers, or their saltsā under the Entry 34.
- Added a new restriction on PFOA-related substances with certain transition period for certain products in Entry 35.
- Updated the Entry number for PFHxS to Entry 36.
https://www.meti.go.jp/english/press/2024/0705_002.html
12. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) updated its recommendations on food contact materials , involve silicone, paper and paperboard, and temperature resistant polymer coating.
On August 1, 2024, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) 11.updated its recommendations on food contact materials, involve silicone, paper and paperboard and temperature resistant polymer coating, which is effective from the date of publication.
| Recommendations No. | Commendation Recommendations |
|---|---|
| XV | Silicones |
| XXXVI | Paper and Board for Food Contact |
| XXXVI/1 | Cooking Papers, Hot Filter Papers and Filter Layers |
| XXXVI/2 | Paper and Paperboard for Baking Purposes |
| LI | Temperature Resistant Polymer Coating Systems for Frying, Cooking and Baking Utensils |
13. China mandatory national standard for electric toys have been officially released
On July 24, 2024, Chinaās State Administration for Market Regulation (National Standardization Administration) published Announcement (No. 15 of 2024) approving release of 218 national standards and 1 national standard amendment form, including the mandatory standard GB 19865-2024 āSafety of Electric Toysā for electric toys, which will be officially implemented on August 1, 2026.
https://std.sacinfo.org.cn/gnoc/queryInfo?id=238F00654BFECAEC2EA26A1EE83134C0
14. Hong Kong Revises Standards for Toys and Childrenās Productsļ¼
February 16, 2024, the Hong Kong government published in the Gazette the Toys and Childrenās Products Safety Ordinance (Amendment of Schedules 1 and 2) Notice 2024. The Notice seeks to update the safety standards for toys and six classes of childrenās products listed in Schedule 2 (Schedule 2 products) under the Toys and Childrenās Products Safety Ordinance (Cap. 424).
The six classes of Schedule 2 products are (i) baby walking frames; (ii) bunk beds for domestic use; (iii) child safety barriers for domestic use; (iv) childrenās paints; (v) playpens for domestic use; and (vi) wheeled child conveyances.
The Notice will take effect on August 1, 2024.
https://www.legco.gov.hk/yr2024/english/brief/cedbcr08183_20240215-e.pdf
https://www.elegislation.gov.hk/hk/2024/ln17!en
Recall
EU rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products (Rapex)ļ¼Report-2024-27- Report-2024-34ļ¼:
https://ec.europa.eu/safety-gate-alerts/screen/webReport#weeklyReports
Canada Recallļ¼https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/search/site
Australian Recallļ¼https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recalls
US CPSC Recallļ¼https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls
Recall caseļ¼
| Product category | Sample images | Notification submitted by | Reason for recall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Childrenās Two-Piece Pajama Sets |  | US | The childrenās pajama sets violate the federal flammability standards for childrenās sleepwear, posing a burn hazard to children. |
| Childrenās Long-Sleeve/Pants Two-Piece Pajama Sets |  | US | The recalled childrenās pajama sets violate the flammability standards for childrenās sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries to children. |
| Childrenās Lace Nightgowns |  | US | The childrenās nightgowns violate the federal flammability standards for childrenās sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries to children. |
| Childrenās Button-up Short-Sleeve/Shorts Two-Piece Pajama Sets |  | US | The recalled childrenās pajama sets violate the flammability standards for childrenās sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries to children. |
| Halloween Witch Hats |  | US Canada | The hats violate federal flammability requirements, posing a risk of burn injuries to consumers. |
| Victor Electric Folding Soft Bullet Toy Guns |  | US | The recalled toy guns fail to meet federal safety standards, as they do not have a blaze orange tip that is required by the mandatory toy standard to differentiate toy guns from real guns, and the projectiles pose an eye injury hazard to children because they do not meet the requirements in the mandatory toy standard for projectile toys. |
| LED Light-up Jelly Ring Toys |  | US | The recalled light-up jelly ring toys violate the mandatory federal battery-operated toy regulation because the rings contain button cell batteries that fit within CPSCās small parts cylinder, and can be easily accessed without requiring the use of a common household tool. When button cell batteries are swallowed, the ingested batteries can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns and death, posing an ingestion hazard to children. |
| Brilliant Bee Rattles |  | US | The wooden base can detach from the wooden rod and release the three plastic rings, posing a choking hazard to young children. |
| Puzzle mat A12/01713/24 |  | Slovakia | The toy has small parts that can easily detach (window of the plane with propeller, rear part of horizontal tail surface and front part from sport plane). A small child may put them in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| Childrenās clothing set A12/01838/24 |  | Hungary | Childrenā clothing set consisting of a long-sleeve white T-shirt, a long-sleeved pink T-shirt and blue trousers. The product is decorated with swans, beads and sequins. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety |
| Childrenās dress A12/01835/24 |  | Hungary | The small decorative elements (beads) can easily be detached from the product. Small children may put them in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive. |
| Childrenās shoes A12/01877/24 |  | Hungary | The small decorative elements (four-leaf clovers) can easily be detached from the product. A small child may put them in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive. |
| Toy rattle A12/01828/24 |  | Germany | The small wooden balls of the rattle can easily detach. A child may put them in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| Plastic toy set A12/01813/24 |  | Romania | Due to their characteristic appearance, form, colour and size, the product may be mistaken for foodstuff. This may lead children to put them in the mouth and ingest them. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Food Imitating Directive and the Toy Safety Directive, nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| Modelling clay A12/01800/24 |  | Latvia | The migration of boron from the modelling clay is too high (measured value: up to 1793 mg/kg). Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-3. |
| Toy slime A12/01947/24 |  | Germany | The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 1450 mg/kg). Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-3. |
| Toy slime A12/01943/24 |  | Germany | The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 1710 mg/kg). Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-3. |
| Toy slime A12/01944/24 |  | Germany | The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 960 mg/kg). Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-3. |
| Toy slime A12/01946/24 |  | Germany | The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 997 mg/kg). Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-3 |
| Bath toy A12/01951/24 |  | France | The toy releases an excessive amount of bisphenol A (measured value: 0.051 mg/l). Bisphenol A has endocrine disrupting properties and affects the mammary glands, reproductive and immune systems and may impair brainās development and the behaviour. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive. |
| Soft toy A12/01958/24 |  | France | The eyes of the toy pig have an excessive concentration of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) (measured values up to 20.6% by weight. These phthalates may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to their reproductive system. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
| Soft toy A11/00083/24 |  | Poland | The fibrous stuffing material of the toy is easily accessible due to the zipper. A small child may put the filling material in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| ęęé¢ęęęå A12/01959/24 |  | France | The painting kit has small parts (the foam parts of the inkers) than can easily detach. Small children may put them in the mouth and choke. Moreover, the product has an excessive concentration of a mixture of the preservatives methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) (measured values: 0.00008 % and 0.00011%). MCI and MI cause severe skin burns. Additionally, the plastic bag of the packaging is too thin. If a child plays with it, the plastic can cover the mouth and nose, causing the child to suffocate. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standards EN 71-1 and EN 71-7. |
| Flip flops A12/01876/24 |  | Finland | The plastic material of the straps contains an excessive amount of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) (measured value: 35% by weight). DBP may harm the health by causing possible damage to the reproductive system. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
| Slippers A12/01948/24 |  | France | The plastic material of the product has an excessive concentration dibutyl phthalate (DBP) (measured value: 2,9 % by weight). This phthalate may harm the health by causing possible damage to the reproductive system. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is introducing an electronic filing (eFiling) system for the compliance certificate submission process for consumer products during importation. It is anticipated to be officially enforced and will become a mandatory requirement by 2025. The system enhances security, speeds compliant cargo flow through the port, and reduces the risk of shipping delays, as well as modernizes the import process, making it easier for importers to comply with safety regulations while protecting consumers from unsafe products.
CMA Testing will provide professional advice to assist U.S. importers complete electronic filing (eFiling) of compliance certificates for products more simply and smoothly.
For enquiries: Mr. Joey Kwok (+852) 2690 8255 / (+852) 6059 9644 | joeykwok@cmatesting.org
Source: https://www.cpsc.gov/eFiling
On 10 Jul 2024, the Ministries of Japan has published Cabinet Order no. 244 of 2024 to expand the restriction on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its salts to PFOA, its isomer or their salts and PFOA-related compounds under the Act on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of their Manufacturer etc.
The Cabinet Order No. 244 contains several important provisions.
1. Designated the following substances as Class 1 Specified Chemical Substances:
- Perfluoro alkanoic acid (limited to those with a branched structure and eight carbon atoms) (PFOA isomers) or their salts.
- PFOA-related substances (perfluorooctyl iodide (PFOI), 8:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (8:2 FTOH), and substances that degrade to PFOA specified by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW), the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and the Ministry of the Environment.)
2. Expanded the restriction for “PFOA or its salts” to “PFOA, its isomers, or their salts” under the Entry 34.
3. Added a new restriction on PFOA-related substances with certaintransition period for certain products in Entry 35.
4. Updated the Entry number for PFHxS to Entry 36.
The following designated products containing substances designated as Class 1 are prohibited from import:
| Entry | Substances | Products | Effective Date |
| 34 | PFOA, its isomers, or their salts | 1. Water resistant and oil resistant paper 2. Water repellent and oil repellent textiles 3. Cleaning agent 4. Anti-reflection agents used in the manufacturer of semiconductors 5. Paints and varnish 6. Water and oil repellent agent 7. Adhesives and sealing fillers 8. Fire extinguisher, fire-extinguishing agent, and fire-extinguishing foam 9. Toner for printer 10. Water resistant and oil resistant clothes 11. Water repellent and oil repellent floor covering 12. Floor waxes 13. Photographic paper | For PFOA or their salts: Effected in 2021 For PFOA isomers: 10 Sep 2024 |
| 35 | PFOA-related substances | 1. Water repellent and oil repellent textiles 2. Antifoaming agents 3. Water-repellent, oil-repellent, and antifouling agents and fiber protecting agents 4. Optical fibers or coating agents applied to optical fiber 5. Fire extinguisher, fire-extinguishing agent, and fire-extinguishing foam 6. Water resistant and oil resistant clothes 7. Water repellent and oil repellent floor covering 8. Floor waxes | 10 Jan 2025 |
Source: https://www.meti.go.jp/english/press/2024/0705_002.html
On August 1, 2024, the European Medicines Agency released the new version of the āTechnical Guide on Metals and Alloys Used in Food Contact Materials and Articlesā (EDQM), replacing the old version CM/Res (2013) 9. This guide has been widely recognized and is considered a reference standard for the safety and quality of metal materials and products.
The new technical guide supplements the European Commissionās Resolution CM/Res (2020) 9 on the safety and quality of materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, aiming to ensure the safety and quality of food contact materials and articles made of metals and alloys. The guide describes in detail the chemical elements that may be present as impurities in metal food contact products and sets specific release limits (SRL) for these elements.
This revision is based on Resolution CM/Res (2020)9 and takes into account the scientific opinions issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) since 2013 and the research results of relevant national risk assessment agencies (such as BfR, ANSES). The main updates include:
1. Updated element release limits (SRL)
| Substance Name | Previous Limit (SRL) mg/kg | New Limit (SRL) mg/kg |
| Chromium | 0.250 | 1 |
| Manganese | 1.8 | 0.55 |
| Thallium | 0.0001 | 0.001 |
| Zirconium | / | 2 |
2. Updated test conditions referring to the JRC guidelines, aligning with the āTest Conditions for Kitchen Utensils in Contact with Food: Plastics, Metals, Silicone and Rubbers, Paper&Boardā 4th edition 2023.
3. Removed the declaration of conformity section from the first edition to comply with the guidelines specified in Section 8.2 of Resolution CM/Res(2020)9.
4. Clarified the requirements for determining disposable metal and alloy products: the first migration amount ā¤ SRL.
Resourceļ¼https://freepub.edqm.eu/publications/PUBSD-128/detail?_refluxos=a10
CMA Testing is pleased to announce its participation in the upcoming mega event, Tokyo Toy Show 2024. We are excited to present our testing services at the exhibition, offering valuable business insights, consultations, and the latest updates on toy safety standards, testing, and conformance requirements.
Welcome to meet our representatives at booth 1-54, West Hall 1, at Tokyo Big Sight during the Buyerās Days on 29August and 30 August 2024.
| Show Period: | 29 August 2024 ā 1 September 2024 | |
| Our Exhibition Date & Time: | 29 August 2024 (Thursday) | 10:00 ā 17:30 |
| 30 August 2024 (Friday) | 09:30 ā 17:00 | |
| Venue: | Tokyo International Exhibition Center (Tokyo Big Sight) 3-21-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan West Exhibition Hall 1, 2, 4 | |
| Our Booth No: | 1-54 | |
1. Restrictions On PFAS And Other Chemicals In Consumer Products
On May 30, 2024, the Governor of Vermont approved Bill S.25 to revise restrictions on PFASļ¼ Bisphenols, Ortho-phthalates and other substances in consumer products. The specific requirements are as follows:
2. Connecticut Approved SB 292 To Expand PFAS Restrictions In Consumer Goods
On June 5, 2024, the Governor of Connecticut approved Bill 292 to revise restrictions on PFAS in consumer products. The specific requirements are as follows:
| Product Scope | Requirements | Effective date |
| Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions | Prohibited if intentionally added unless such product is accompanied by a legible and easily discernable disclosure with the statement āMade with PFAS chemicalsā, | January 1, 2026, |
| Turnout gear | If a manufacturer or other person sells turnout gear that contains intentionally added PFAS, the manufacturer or person shall provide written notice to the purchaser at the time of sale that indicates that the turnout gear includes intentionally added PFAS and the reason PFAS is added to the turnout gear. | January 1, 2026, |
| Apparel Carpet or rug; Cleaning product Cookware Cosmetic product Dental floss Fabric treatment Childrenās product Menstruation product; Textile furnishing Ski wax Upholstered furniture | If product contains intentionally added PFAS, unless the manufacturer of the product provides prior notification in writing to the departmentļ¼DEEPļ¼ If product contains intentionally added PFAS, unless product is labeled | July 1, 2026 |
| Apparel Turnout gear Carpets or rugs Cleaning products Cookware Cosmetic products Dental floss; Fabric treatments Childrenās products Menstruation products Textile furnishings Ski wax Upholstered furniture Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions | Prohibited if intentionally added | January 1, 2028, |
3. Rhode Island Delays The Ban On PFAS In Food Packaging
On June 17, 2024, the Governor of Rhode Island approved Bill S 2850B, which further delays the effective date of the control requirements for PFAS in food packaging by six months: Effective January 1, 2025, Prohibited if PFAS are intentionally added inĀ foodĀ packaging.
https://legiscan.com/RI/text/S2850/2024
4. CPSC Releases A Final Rule For Infant And Cradle Swings
On May 30, 2024, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) published the final rule 16 CFR 1223 for infant and cradle swings in the Federal Register, which cites the latest voluntary standard ASTM F2088-24 as a mandatory. The rule is effective on September 14, 2024, unless the Commission receives a significant adverse comment by July 1, 2024. If the Commission receives such a comment, it will publish a document in the Federal Register, withdrawing this direct final rule before its effective date. An infant swing is defined as a swing that enables an infant in a seated position to swing or glide, and is intended for use with infants from birth until the infant attempts to climb out of the swing (approximately 9 months).
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/05/30/2024-11792/safety-standard-for-infant-and-cradle-swings
5. The 31th SVHC Substances Were Released And Candidate List Of 241 Entries
On 27 June 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has added one new chemical to the candidate list of substances of very high concern (SVHC), becoming the 31th SVHC substances. The Candidate List of SVHC now contains 241 entries for chemicals.
Entries added to the Candidate List on 27 June 2024 and their properties:
| Substance Name | EC No. | CAS No. | Reason for Proposing | Use |
| Bis (Ī±,Ī±-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide | 201-279-3 | 80-43-3 | Toxic for reproduction (Article 57c) | Natural rubber, synthetic rubber, vulcanizing agent for polyethylene resin, crosslinking agent, flame retardant |
Another substance triphenyl phosphate (CAS: 115-86-6) released by ECHA in March 2024, has not been added to the SVHC candidate list and is still under consultation.
https://echa.europa.eu/-/echa-adds-one-hazardous-chemical-to-the-candidate-list
6. EU Proposes To Revise POPs Regulation To Add Restriction Of Dechlorane Plus
On June 26, 2024, the European Union released a revised draft act of the POPs Regulation (EU) 2019/1021. This draft act amends Annex I to the Regulation to include dechlorane plus as a substance subject to certain restrictions. This draft act is open for feedback from June 26, 2024to July 24, 2024. The restriction requirement is: The concentrations of dechlorane plus equal to or below 1 mg/kg (0, 0001 % by weight) where they are present in substances, mixtures or articles.
https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/13888-Persistent-organic-pollutant-dechlorane-plus_en
7. EU Will Check Classification And Labelling Of Mixtures In Products
On June 17, 2024, ECHAās Enforcement Forum agreed to a new EU-wide project REF-14 to check that hazardous mixtures present in products, are classified, labelled and packaged correctly to protect consumers and children from chemical hazards.
Key inspection scope:
- Inspectors will check if the suppliers of these products fulfil their duties under the CLP regulation, including classification and labelling, as well as requirements for packaging and child resistant fastening.
- They will also check the notifications to the poison centres and the safety data sheets of the mixtures (SDS).
The REF-14 project will be prepared in 2025 and inspections are expected in 2026.
https://echa.europa.eu/-/inspectors-will-check-classification-and-labelling-of-mixtures-in-products
8. REACH SVHC Adds Multiple Intended Substances
On June 7, 2024, ECHA added O, O, O-triphenylthiophosphate to the SVHC intended substances list. On June 20, 2024, ECHA added tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched) phosphite and 6-[(C10-C13)-alkyl-(branched, unsaturated)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl]hexanoic acid to the SVHC intended substances list.Ā On June 27, 2024, ECHA added reaction mass of: triphenylthiophosphate and tertiary butylated phenyl derivatives to the SVHC intended substances list.Ā ECHA plans to initiate a public review of these substances in August 2024. If approved, these substances are expected to be officially added to SVHC in January 2025. At present, there are 11 SVHC intended substances.
https://echa.europa.eu/registry-of-svhc-intentions
9. Canada Releases Regulation Amending The Products Containing Mercury Regulation: SOR/2024-109
On May 31, 2024, Canada published Regulation SOR/2024-109 in Official Gazette to amend the SOR/2014-254 Products Containing Mercury Regulation. The amendments will come into force twelve months after the day on which they are published in the Canada Gazette. The main revisions are as follows:
(l) a battery that has a mercury concentration of 0.0005% or less by weight;
(m) a measuring device that is imported solely to be displayed in a public exhibition for cultural or historical purposes;
(n) cold cathode tubing, or an electrode for use in cold cathode tubing, that
(i) is manufactured in or imported into Canada after December 31, 2025,
(ii) is needed to repair signage or cove lighting that is manufactured in, imported into or installed in Canada before December 31, 2025, and
(iii) contains a total quantity of mercury that is less than or equal to 100 mg.
https://canadagazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2024/2024-06-19/html/sor-dors109-eng.html
10. China RoHS Limited Requirement Standard GB/T 26572-2011 Was Officially Released, Add Restricted Requirements For Four Phthalates
On June 29, 2024, Chinaās State Administration for Market Regulation (National Standardization Administration) published Announcement (No. 14 of 2024) approving release of 109 national standards and four national standard amendments. Among them, No.1 Amendment to the China RoHS limited requirement standard GB/T 26572-2011 āRequirements of concentration limits for certain restricted substances in electrical and electronic productsā was officially released. This amendment adds the new restriction of four phthalates in electrical and electronic products: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Benzylbutyl phthalate (BBP), Bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), so as to achieve ten restricted substances under GB/T 26572. This amendment will take effect on January 1, 2026.
https://std.sacinfo.org.cn/gnoc/queryInfo?id=E2F76A3B449808FD198E132C41ADD96E
11. The New Mandatory National Draft Standards Of āGeneral Safety Requirements For Childrenās Ride-On And Activity Articlesā Was Released For Comment
On June 24, 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China released a mandatory national draft āGeneral safety requirements for childrenās ride-on and activity articles ā, the draft is open for comment until September 01, 2024.
This standard specifies the general safety requirements and testing methods for childrenās ride-on and activity articles. This standard applies to riding and activity articles designed or intended for use by children under 14 years of age, and sports or activity products intended for children to ride and carry childrenās weight, non-competition and stunt display purposes, including but not limited to: childrenās bicycles, childrenās tricycles, unicycles, childrenās electric scooters, variant childrenās tricycles, unicycles, etc.
https://std.samr.gov.cn/gb/search/gbqSuggestionDetail?id=43541C85AFEAB1BFB5A1B5D451F73F6E
12. Three Mandatory National Standards For Furniture Have Been Officially Released
On June 25, 2024, Chinaās State Administration for Market Regulation (National Standardization Administration) published Announcement (No. 12 of 2024) approving release of 18 mandatory national standards. These include three mandatory standards for furniture, namely: GB 18584-2024 ā Limit of harmful substances of furnitureā will be officially implemented on July 1, 2025, GB 28008-2024 ā Technical specification for the safety of furniture structureā will be officially implemented on July 1, 2025, GB 28007-2024 ā Technical specifications for the safety of infantsā and childrenās furnitureā will be officially implemented on January 1, 2026.
https://std.sacinfo.org.cn/gnoc/queryInfo?id=83A86FFB624975CF67952704CBECD600
Recall
EU rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products (Rapex)ļ¼Report-2024-13- Report-2024-26ļ¼:
https://ec.europa.eu/safety-gate-alerts/screen/webReport#weeklyReports
Canada Recallļ¼https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/search/site
Australian Recallļ¼https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recalls
US CPSC Recallļ¼https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls
Recall caseļ¼
| Product category | Sample images | Notification submitted by | Reason for recall |
| Sling Carriers |  | US | The recalled sling carriers violate the safety requirements of the Safety Standard for Sling Carriers, including requirements for structural integrity and occupant retention, posing a fall hazard to babies. Additionally, the sling carriers pose a suffocation hazard because they fail to meet the federal safety standardās requirements for restraint systems, as the waist restraint can be used without the crotch restraint. Further, there are no warnings or instructional literature providing information to caregivers about keeping the babyās face clear to prevent suffocation or safe positioning, to prevent the baby from curling into a position with their chin resting on or near their chest. Sling carriers manufactured after January 30, 2018 are subject to the mandatory federal safety standard. |
| Magnetic chess games, |  | US | The recalled magnetic chess games, which include 20 magnet pieces, violate the mandatory federal toy magnet regulation because the set contains one or more magnets that fit within CPSCās small parts cylinder, and the magnets are stronger than permitted. When high-powered magnets are swallowed, the ingested magnets can attract each other, or another metal object, and become lodged in the digestive system. This can result in perforations, twisting and/or blockage of the intestines, infection, blood poisoning and death. |
| Screws and set |  | US Canada | The screws that connect the plastic heel cup to the aluminum heel unit of the crampon can loosen and allow the heel cup to detach from the crampon, posing a fall hazard. |
| Mini Sets with Liquid Resins |  | US Canada | The recalled Make It Mini sets contain resins that, when liquid, can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation or sensitization when inhaled, touched, or ingested by children or adults. The resins contain acrylates (hydroxyethylmethacrylate āHEMAā and isobornyl acrylate āIBOAā) in amounts prohibited in childrenās products by the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. After the resins cure, they no longer present this hazard. |
| Toy Trunk Storage Chests |  | US | The toy trunk storage chests do not contain a lid support feature or ventilation holes, posing entrapment and suffocation hazard |
| The training wheel assembly knob |  | US | The training wheel assembly knob can loosen and detach from the bicycle, posing fall and injury hazards to the riders. |
| Childrenās boots A12/01481/24 |  | Sweden | The plastic material of the product has excessive concentrations of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) (measured values: up to 5.3% and 19.9% by weight, respectively). The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
| Teething ring A12/01471/24 |  | France | The teething ring has a protruding part that can get suck in the mouth of a small child, causing choking. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive, nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| Soother holde A12/01467/24 |  | France | The soother holder does not have the required ventilation holes. Small children can put the soother holder in their mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Safety Directive nor with European standard EN 12586. |
| LED headlamp A12/01488/24 |  | Sweden | The plastic material of the cable has excessive concentrations of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), lead and short chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured values: 1.9%, 0.15%, 0.13% and 3.5% by weight, respectively). The solders in the product have an excessive concentration of lead (measured value up to 72.6% by weigh The product does not comply with the requirements of the Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive) nor with the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) Regulation. |
| Playpen A12/01558/24 |  | Netherlands | The frame of the playpen bends when loaded, which results in a reduced height of the sides. This may allow children to climb on top of the fence and fall over the edge, leading to a risk of injury. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 12227. |
| Playpen A12/01598/24 |  | Netherlands | The presence of holes in the panels may allow children to climb on the top of the fence and fall over the edge, leading to a risk of injury. Clothes or objects, especially those attached to cords, can be caught in protruding parts of the product, increasing the risk of strangulation. The battery cover of the music box in the playpen can easily detach. Small children may put the batteries in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive nor with the European standards EN 71-1, EN 12227, EN 1930 and EN 62115. |
| Keyring with soft toy A12/01540/24 |  | Finland | The key ring attached to the plush toy can be easily detached. Small children may put it in the mouth and choke. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the European standard EN 71-1. |
| Necklace A12/01571/24 |  | Germany | The product has an excessive concentration of cadmium (measured value up to 79% by weight). The product does not meet the requirements of the REACH Regulation |
| Baby nest INFO/00083/24 |  | Ireland | The baby nest does not have a firm flat surface. The babyās mouth and/or nose may get covered with the side of the baby nest while sleeping, which can lead to suffocation. The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive. |
| Mouse pad A12/01627/24 |  | Germany | The product has an excessive concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), notably Chrysene, Benzo(e)pyrene (measured values up to 2.83 mg/kg and 2.18 mg/kg by weight respectively). These PAHs may cause cancer. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
| Liquid hourglass A12/01585/24 |  | Netherlands | The oil-based liquid is toxic when aspired. If the timer breaks, there is a risk that a child tastes it and if it enters the airways, it can produce chemical pneumonia. This product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
| Electric toy car set A12/01606/24 |  | France | The battery compartment opens/breaks easily, making the batteries accessible. A child could put them into their mouth, which could cause gastrointestinal damage or lead to choking. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor or with the European standard EN 62115. |
| Hair ties A12/01689/24 |  | Sweden | The plastic material of the bag has excessive concentrations of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured values: up to 12.5%, 2.3% and 1.03% by weight, respectively). The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation nor with the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) Regulation. |
| Thermal paper for cash register A12/01687/24 |  | Czechia | The product has an excessive concentration of bisphenol A (measured value: 1.4% by weight). The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation |
| Fancy-dress costume A12/01696/24 |  | France | The product contains chromium VI (measured value up to 0.05 mg/kg). The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive nor with the REACH Regulation |
On June 29, 2024, Chinaās State Administration for Market Regulation (National Standardization Administration) published Announcement (No. 14 of 2024) approving release of 109 national standards and 4 national standard amendments. Among them, No. 1 Amendment to the China RoHS limited requirement standard GB/T 26572-2011 āRequirements of concentration limits for certain restricted substances in electrical and electronic productsā was officially released. This amendment adds the new restriction of four phthalates in electrical and electronic products: dibutyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (BEHP), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), bringing the total number of restricted substances to ten under GB/T 26572. This amendment will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Announcement (No. 14 of 2024) also approved the release of GB/T 39560.12-2024 āDetermination of certain substances in electrotechnical products-Part 12: Simultaneous determination of polybrominated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and phthalates in polymers by gas chromatography-mass spectrometryā. This standard will take effect on October 1, 2024.
CMA Testing has the testing capability for ten restricted substances in No. 1 Amendment of GB/T 26572-2011. At the same time, we also remind related companies to pay attention to the dynamics of regulations and standards in a timely manner and make necessary preparations in advance to avoid non-compliance.
The details of the announcement (Chinese version only):https://std.sacinfo.org.cn/gnoc/queryInfo?id=E2F76A3B449808FD198E132C41ADD96E