In researching the report, numerous national toy chains were visited by PIRG, in order to survey CPSC notices of recalls and other regulatory actions on toys.

Lead in toys
The American Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act bans lead except at trace amounts in paint or coatings and in toys or other products for children under 12 years.

So far in 2009, CPSC has recalled nearly 1.3 million toys or other children’s products for violations of the lead paint standard. The CPSC has recalled an additional 102,700 toys and other children’s products for violation of the 300 ppm lead standard.

Some children’s toys and jewelry may contain high levels of lead.  In one case, PIRG found a piece of jewelry that contained 71% lead by weight. PIRG also found toys that exceed the CPSIA’s lead paint standards.

Phthalates in children's products
Section 108 of the CPSIA bans toys containing three classes of phthalates for all children, and bans toys containing three more phthalates if they can be put in younger children’s mouths. This provision went into effect in February 2009.

This year, PIRG found two toys that laboratory testing showed to contain levels of phthalates that exceed limits allowed by the CPSIA.

There is no comprehensive list of potentially hazardous toys. PIRG publishes Toy Safety tips at www.toysafety.mobi

PIRG calls for American legislators to fund the CPSC in order to carry out full implementation of the new law and for the CPSC to vigorously enforce the CPSIA ban on phthalates in all toys and products for children.

Source: Press release from US PIRG