#United States #Washington #Apple #CPSC #AirTags

CPSC and Apple Collaborate to Improve Safety for Children

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recently taken significant steps to ensure that consumer products, particularly those frequented by children, are safe and informative. This initiative was highlighted in their recent Notice of Violation issued to Apple, Inc., relating to their product, AirTags.

The CPSC cited Apple for not fully adhering to the warning label requirements under Reese's Law, which was established to protect children from the dangers of ingesting button cell batteries. Despite the AirTag meeting performance safety standards, it was found that AirTags imported after the effective date of Reese's Law lacked the necessary warnings on the product and its packaging, heightening the risk for children who might accidentally ingest the small batteries used in these devices.

Compliance with Reese's Law

Reese's Law necessitates that products containing button cell or coin batteries include specific warnings about the associated risks. After an investigation, the CPSC identified that although Apple's AirTag secured its battery effectively, the cautionary messages were insufficient or missing altogether. These warnings are crucial because ingestion of such batteries can lead to severe injuries in children.

In a collaborative effort with the CPSC, Apple has now incorporated a new warning symbol inside the battery compartment of the AirTag and has made packaging updates to include all required warning statements. Additionally, to further assist users, Apple modified the instructions found in the Find My app, which alerts users whenever a battery change is prompted. This advisory now includes vital information about the dangers of mishandling button and coin cell batteries.

Future Responsibilities for Manufacturers

The CPSC has taken this opportunity to remind all manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of consumer products that non-compliance with established safety laws could lead to enforcement actions. Manufacturers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with compliance necessities as detailed in the Button Cell and Coin Battery Business Guidance on the CPSC's official website.

Moreover, any entity that becomes aware of a product that might pose a risk is mandated by Section 15(b) of the Consumer Product Safety Act to report their findings to the CPSC promptly. This proactive communication is essential in maintaining safety across all consumer product spaces.

Understanding the Role of CPSC

The CPSC plays a pivotal role in maintaining public safety through the regulation of consumer products. Their efforts are aimed at reducing the deaths, injuries, and property damage that result from product-related incidents, which cost the country over $1 trillion annually. Their initiatives, such as the collaborative agreement with Apple, are part of a broader commitment to enhancing consumer safety and ensuring the continuous improvement of safety standards over time.

As manufacturers like Apple implement such changes, consumers can expect an increasingly safer shopping environment. For those interested in learning more about compliance measures and safety resources, the CPSC's website remains a valuable tool.

Conclusion

With growing concerns regarding product safety, the partnership between CPSC and Apple to address AirTag warning labels not only emphasizes the importance of compliance but also showcases how industry leaders are stepping up to safeguard children against hidden risks within everyday products. For ongoing updates and critical alerts regarding product safety, consumers can register on the CPSC's website and follow them on various social media platforms.

By reaffirming their commitment to child safety, Apple is setting a precedent for other manufacturers to evaluate their own products and make necessary changes for enhanced consumer protection.