October 19, 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) called on ASTM International, which sets consensus standards for various products and services worldwide, to establish new standards for extractable cadmium in children’s jewelry and toys.
Don Mays, senior director for product safety and technical policy for Consumers Union, serves on the ASTM subcommittee that will develop the standards.
“This is a good first step toward removing dangerous cadmium from children’s products,” Mays said. “Cadmium is a toxin that, if ingested or inhaled, can damage kidneys and soften bones, yet it is pervasive in many consumer products. As a representative for consumers on the ASTM committees, we will push for the strongest standard to protect the public health.”
Contact:
David Butler
202-462-6262