CPSC New Mandatory Safety Standard ANSI/UL 4200A-2023
Ensuring Consumer Safety: New Mandatory Safety Standard for Button Cell and Coin Batteries
The safety of consumers, especially children, is a top priority for regulatory bodies. To mitigate the risks associated with button and coin cell battery ingestion by young children, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States has introduced a mandatory standard known as ANSI/UL 4200A-2023. This article explores the key aspects of this standard, which was implemented in accordance with Reese's Law, enacted on August 16, 2022, to enforce safety regulations on products containing button cell or coin batteries.
Understanding Reese's Law and Applicability
Reese's Law ensures that the CPSC enforces safety regulations on items containing button cell or coin batteries. While products intended for children under the age of 14 that comply with the Toy Standard ASTM are exempt from these rules, any consumer product that utilizes or contains button cell or coin batteries falls under the purview of Reese's Law.
How to make sure that your products stay compliant
Manufacturers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with CPSC regulations and the mandatory safety standard ANSI/UL 4200A-2023. The standard outlines specific requirements that products must meet to ensure consumer safety.
Battery Compartment Accessibility
To comply with safety standards, products must feature battery compartments that are inaccessible to children without the use of tools such as screwdrivers or coins. Alternatively, products can incorporate mechanisms requiring at least two separate and simultaneous movements to access the battery compartment.
Mechanical Abuse Testing
Products must undergo mechanical abuse tests to evaluate their resistance to damage without releasing or exposing batteries. These tests simulate plausible scenarios of both intended and unintended use to ensure the product can withstand potential abuse.
Clear and Appropriate Labeling
Consumer products containing button cell or coin batteries must bear appropriate labeling to effectively communicate the potential danger of swallowing batteries. The labels should explicitly advise consumers to keep both new and used batteries out of children's reach. Additionally, the labeling must instruct consumers to seek immediate medical attention in case of battery ingestion.
Ensuring Consumer Confidence
By adhering to these safety standards and implementing the necessary precautions, manufacturers can ensure their products are safe for children. Compliance with ANSI/UL 4200A-2023 provides consumers with the confidence and peace of mind they seek when purchasing products that incorporate button cell or coin batteries.
The implementation of the mandatory safety standard ANSI/UL 4200A-2023, in line with Reese's Law, signifies a significant step towards enhancing consumer safety in relation to button and coin cell batteries. Manufacturers must prioritize compliance with these regulations to protect consumers, especially young children, from the potential hazards associated with battery ingestion.
By upholding these safety standards, manufacturers can not only meet regulatory requirements but also build trust and confidence among consumers, ensuring the well-being of individuals using their products.
Read the full regulatory update here
How can QIMA help?
At QIMA, we offer comprehensive lab testing services to ensure the safety of all consumer products. Our team of experts can design custom compliance programs for your specific products and markets which can include risk assessment and design evaluation, regulatory compliance testing, chemical and analytical testing, physical and mechanical testing, performance and reliability testing, and labeling requirements.
Contact us today to learn more!
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