The alarming rise of battery ingestion cases, resulting in 27 deaths and 54,000 injuries over the past decade, has led the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to take decisive action. In response, the CPSC implemented mandatory safety standards for button cell or coin batteries in September 2023 to reduce ingestion hazards for children six years and younger.
The dangers posed by these small batteries are significant, and their varied forms and materials only add to the risk. They can cause severe burns and can even be fatal. To mitigate these risks, the CPSC has established new safety standards.
Consumer products containing button cell or coin batteries manufactured or imported after October 23, 2023, must comply with the safety standard rule. This rule adopts the voluntary standard into a mandatory regulation, as required by Reese’s Law.
Building on these new standards, the CPSC has proposed additional safety requirements to further protect children from battery-related hazards. The proposed requirements include:
- Secure battery compartments to prevent child access
- Warning labels on packaging
- Child-resistant packaging for batteries and products containing batteries
- Compliance with ANSI/UL 4200A-2023 Standard for Safety
Comments on the proposal are due by October 15. These regulations apply to various consumer products, including toys, keyless entry remotes, and wireless game controllers. Ensure your products comply with these new safety standards to avoid potential risks or delays during transportation and customs clearance. For more information on compliance with this and other product safety standards, please reach out to Mohawk Global Trade Advisors.
By Clarissa Chiclana