CPSC Issues Urgent Warning on TIANQIU Alkaline Button Cell Batteries
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is sounding the alarm over TIANQIU alkaline button cell batteries, specifically the AG4 and AG6 models. These batteries, which have been distributed without proper child-resistant packaging, pose a significant ingestion hazard for young children. The lack of compliance with
Reese's Law, which mandates stringent safety measures for such consumer products, has prompted the CPSC to advise immediate action for public safety.
The Danger of Ingestion
Ingesting a button cell or coin battery can lead to severe injury, including chemical burns and, in extreme cases, death. The urgency surrounding this warning cannot be overstated; the CPSC is urging parents and caregivers to securely store these batteries, keeping them out of reach of children. The commission's warning is a crucial reminder of the potential dangers that these common household items can pose when not correctly packaged or stored.
Background of the Issue
Between May 2023 and August 2024, approximately 12,000 units of TIANQIU alkaline button cell battery packs were imported by East Sun Wholesale, a Florida-based distributor, and sold in sets of ten. Notably, the packaging was flagged for failing to meet federal requirements for child-resistant features. The TIANQIU branding, alongside the battery type (AG4 or AG6), appears on each pack, and although these batteries are widely used, their potential risk has raised significant concerns within the consumer safety community.
CPSC's Notice of Violation
Following this incident, the CPSC issued a Notice of Violation to East Sun Wholesale, which has not yet agreed to recall the hazardous battery packs or to provide any remedial actions to consumers. This lack of responsiveness raises additional alarm among consumer advocates.
Consumer Guidelines
In light of these developments, the CPSC has shared critical advice for consumers:
- - Secure Storage: Immediately relocate TIANQIU alkaline batteries to a secure area where children cannot access them.
- - Disposal: Follow local hazardous waste disposal protocols when recycling or disposing of any button cell or coin batteries.
- - No Redistribution: Consumers are warned against selling or giving away these hazardous battery packs.
- - Report Issues: Any incidents involving injuries or defects should be reported to the CPSC through their website: www.SaferProducts.gov.
The Broader Implications
For over 50 years, the CPSC has been devoted to ensuring consumer safety by overseeing a vast array of household products. It estimated that injuries, deaths, and damages relating to consumer products contribute to a staggering $1 trillion cost to the nation annually. With a focus on reducing these occurrences, the CPSC's work has led to a marked decrease in product-related injuries over the decades.
The agency continues to stress the importance of safe product design and compliance with existing regulations, underscoring that adherence to child-resistant packaging is crucial for items that can be hazardous to children.
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed and proactive about their safety and the safety of their families. For further updates and safety information, visit
CPSC.gov and engage with their alerts on social media channels to remain aware of potential hazards.
In summary, the urgent call to action from the CPSC could save lives. The attention to TIANQIU battery packs highlights the need for vigilance and compliance in product safety standards.