FAQ

In modern electronic product manufacturing, RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) testing is increasingly critical, particularly for companies targeting the EU market. RoHS testing ensures environmental compliance, enhances market competitiveness, and strengthens brand reputation. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing explains how to conduct RoHS testing for bathroom products and details the substances tested.

Overview of RoHS Testing

The EU RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU, amended by 2015/863/EU) applies to Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE), including bathroom products with electronic components, such as smart toilets, sensor faucets, and LED bathroom mirrors. RoHS testing verifies that 10 hazardous substances in homogeneous materials are below specified limits, protecting human health and the environment. Upon passing, manufacturers must compile technical documentation, issue a Declaration of Conformity (DoC), and affix the CE mark to meet EU market entry requirements. Purely mechanical bathroom products (e.g., ceramic toilets, metal faucets) are typically exempt from RoHS testing but may require REACH testing.

RoHS Testing Substances for Bathroom Products

RoHS testing targets 10 hazardous substances in all homogeneous materials (e.g., plastic casings, circuit boards, LED lights, power cords) used in bathroom products with electronic components. The substances and their limits are as follows:

1. Lead (Pb)

• Circuit boards: Solder may contain lead (common in smart toilet control boards or sensor faucet circuits).

• Plastic casings: May contain lead stabilizers (e.g., smart toilet shells, bathroom mirror frames).

• Coatings: Decorative coatings may include lead-based pigments.

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm, weight by weight).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Found in low-cost solder or PVC plastics.

2. Mercury (Hg)

• LED lights: May contain trace mercury (rare in modern LEDs).

• Batteries: Some button batteries may contain mercury (uncommon in sensor faucets).

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Minimal in bathroom products but requires testing for batteries or light-emitting components.

3. Cadmium (Cd)

• Plastic casings: May contain cadmium stabilizers or dyes (e.g., smart toilet shells, plastic buttons).

• Coatings: Colored coatings may include cadmium pigments.

• Electronic components: LED bulbs, resistors.

• Limit: ≤0.01% (100 ppm).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Common in vibrant plastics (e.g., red, yellow) or low-cost coatings.

4. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+)

• Metal parts: Screws or connectors may have hexavalent chromium plating (e.g., inside sensor faucets).

• Coatings: Anti-corrosion coatings may contain Cr6+.

• Plastics: May include trace Cr6+ dyes.

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Primarily found in metal surface treatments.

5. Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)

• Plastic casings: May contain PBB flame retardants (e.g., smart toilet shells).

• Circuit boards: Flame-retardant materials may include PBB.

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Common in older plastics or circuit boards, though use has decreased in modern products.

6. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)

• Plastic casings: May contain PBDE flame retardants.

• Circuit boards: Flame-retardant materials may include PBDE.

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm).

• Tested Components:

• Risk: Similar to PBB, found in flame-retardant plastics.

7–10. Phthalates (4 Types)

• Limit: ≤0.1% (1000 ppm) for each.

• Substances:

• Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP).

• Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP).

• Dibutyl phthalate (DBP).

• Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP).

• Tested Components:

• Soft plastics: Power cord insulation, soft buttons may contain phthalates as plasticizers.

• Coatings: Soft coatings may include phthalates.

• Risk: Common in PVC plastics or flexible components to enhance pliability.

Total Number of Substances Tested

• 10 Substances: Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+), PBB, PBDE, DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP.

• Test Scope: All homogeneous materials in the product, defined as materials that cannot be mechanically separated (e.g., plastic casings, circuit boards, power cords, LED lights, coatings, adhesives).

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, provides comprehensive RoHS testing solutions for bathroom products. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our test reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.

With increasing global consumer focus on health and environmental concerns, the European Union introduced the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation in 2007 to enhance the safety management of chemicals and reduce the impact of harmful substances on human health and the environment. REACH testing ensures that chemicals produced and sold by companies comply with this regulation. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing explains the difference between SVHC and REACH.

What is REACH Testing?

• Full Name: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals.

• Definition: A comprehensive EU regulation governing the entire lifecycle of chemicals, including registration, evaluation, authorisation, restriction, and information communication.

• Objective: Ensure the safe use of chemicals, minimize risks to human health and the environment, and promote the substitution of hazardous substances with safer alternatives.

• Scope: Applies to all chemical substances manufactured, imported, or used in the EU, including those in mixtures, articles (e.g., products like toys, electronics), and standalone chemicals.

• Key Requirements:

• Registration: Companies must register substances produced or imported in quantities of 1 ton or more per year with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

• Evaluation: ECHA assesses registered substances for safety.

• Authorisation: Highly hazardous substances (e.g., SVHCs) require authorisation for use.

• Restriction: Bans or limits the use of certain hazardous substances.

What is SVHC Testing?

• Full Name: Substances of Very High Concern.

• Definition: A specific category of chemical substances under REACH, identified for their severe potential hazards, such as carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, reproductive toxicity, or persistence and bioaccumulation in the environment. These substances are listed on the SVHC Candidate List, which is updated biannually by ECHA (containing 247 substances as of May 2025).

• Role in REACH: SVHCs are part of REACH’s authorisation process, requiring special attention and control. If a substance is on the SVHC list, it may eventually require authorisation or be restricted.

• Key Obligations:

• If an article (e.g., a toy or electronic device) contains an SVHC above 0.1% weight by weight (w/w), companies must notify ECHA and inform customers.

• If the total SVHC content exceeds 0.1% (w/w) and the annual export to the EU exceeds 1 ton, registration with ECHA is required.

Differences Between SVHC and REACH

Aspect

REACH

SVHC

Practical Implications

• REACH Testing:

• Mandatory for all companies involved in the EU supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, and distributors.

• Ensures compliance with registration, restriction, and information requirements across the chemical lifecycle.

• Example: A company exporting electronics to the EU must register substances in components and ensure compliance with restricted substance limits.

• SVHC Testing:

• Focuses on identifying whether specific high-risk substances are present in products.

• Required only if SVHCs are suspected or confirmed in articles above the 0.1% (w/w) threshold.

• Example: A toy containing a plastic component with a phthalate (an SVHC) above 0.1% requires SVHC testing, notification to ECHA, and customer disclosure.

• Market Context:

• REACH compliance is a prerequisite for selling any chemical-related product in the EU, ensuring broad regulatory adherence.

• SVHC testing may be driven by specific customer or market demands, especially for high-risk products like toys, textiles, or electronics, even if not always mandatory. However, it becomes critical when SVHCs are present to avoid penalties or market restrictions.

Recommended Testing Agency

Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd. is a leading third-party testing agency offering comprehensive REACH and SVHC testing solutions. Key advantages include:

• Accreditation: CMA/CNAS qualifications, ensuring internationally recognized test reports.

• Expertise: Extensive experience with REACH compliance and SVHC testing for products like toys, electronics, and textiles.

• Advanced Equipment: Utilizes GC/MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) and ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) for precise SVHC detection.

• Comprehensive Services: Supports registration, testing, notification, and compliance documentation.

• Global Credibility: Test reports meet EU regulatory requirements, facilitating market access.

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, provides complete REACH and SVHC testing solutions. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.

In international trade, safety compliance is a critical prerequisite for smooth customs clearance. For products involving chemicals, toys, batteries, and similar items, the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a key document often required by customs authorities worldwide. To ensure the accuracy and reliability of MSDS, many companies opt for third-party testing agencies to generate MSDS test reports. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing explains what MSDS testing entails and where it can be conducted.

Importance of MSDS

MSDS testing is not only a globally recognized requirement for chemical safety management but also a cornerstone of corporate compliance. A complete MSDS comprises 16 sections, covering:

• Physical and chemical properties of the substance.

• Toxicological information.

• Ecological data.

• Safe handling and storage guidelines.

• Emergency measures and disposal considerations.

For exporters, MSDS is a mandatory document for market entry into regions like the EU and North America. For instance, in Quanzhou, a hub for chemical, footwear, and electronics industries, many companies rely on MSDS testing to facilitate exports to these markets, ensuring compliance with stringent safety regulations.

What is MSDS Testing?

MSDS testing involves evaluating a product or material to compile accurate data for the Material Safety Data Sheet. This process verifies the composition, hazards, and safe use of substances, ensuring compliance with international standards such as:

• GHS (Globally Harmonized System): For classification and labeling of chemicals.

• REACH (EU Regulation EC No 1907/2006): For chemical substances in the EU.

• OSHA (U.S.): Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

Testing may include:

• Chemical Composition Analysis: Identifying ingredients and their concentrations.

• Physical Property Testing: Boiling point, flash point, density, etc.

• Toxicological Assessment: Health hazards (e.g., carcinogenicity, skin irritation).

• Environmental Impact: Biodegradability, aquatic toxicity.

The resulting MSDS report ensures that the product meets regulatory requirements and provides clear safety information for handlers, transporters, and end-users.

Where Can MSDS Testing Be Conducted?

When selecting a testing service for MSDS, companies should consider the following factors:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the laboratory holds certifications like CNAS (China National Accreditation Service) or CMA (China Metrology Accreditation) for credible results.

2. Compliance with Target Market Standards: The lab should be familiar with regulations specific to the destination market (e.g., EU, U.S., or Canada).

3. Industry Expertise: Experience with specific product categories (e.g., chemicals, batteries, toys) ensures accurate testing.

4. Multilingual Capabilities: Ability to provide MSDS in multiple languages for global markets.

5. Response Time: Capability to meet urgent deadlines for time-sensitive shipments.

Recommended Testing Agency:
Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd. is a leading third-party testing agency offering comprehensive MSDS testing services. Key advantages include:

• Accreditation: CMA/CNAS-certified, ensuring internationally recognized test reports.

• Expertise: Extensive experience with chemicals, electronics, toys, and other export products.

• Global Compliance: Familiarity with GHS, REACH, OSHA, and other international standards.

• Multilingual Support: MSDS reports available in English, Chinese, and other languages.

• Efficiency: Fast turnaround times to meet urgent export needs.

Huabiao Testing uses advanced equipment, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), to deliver accurate data for MSDS compilation.

MSDS Testing Process

1. Consultation: Contact the testing agency (e.g., Huabiao Testing) and provide product details, including composition, intended use, and target market.

2. Sample Submission: Submit representative product samples (e.g., 1–2 units or a small quantity of material).

3. Testing: The laboratory conducts chemical, physical, and toxicological tests based on applicable standards.

4. Report Compilation: The agency generates a 16-section MSDS report, detailing test results and safety information.

5. Review and Delivery: The client reviews the report, and the agency provides the final MSDS in the required format and language.

6. Ongoing Support: Retest or update the MSDS if the product formulation changes or new regulations apply.

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and state-of-the-art equipment, provides comprehensive MSDS/SD (Safety Data Sheet) certification solutions. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.

Safety testing ensures that products are safe for consumer use, protecting users from harm and enhancing product reliability while meeting stringent global quality requirements. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing explains the concept of safety testing and outlines the key safety testing standards.

Definition of Safety Testing

Safety Testing involves a series of standardized experiments and inspections to verify that a product complies with safety regulations and standards during design, manufacturing, and use. The goal is to ensure the product does not pose risks to users, the environment, or property under normal operation, abnormal conditions, or failure scenarios. Potential hazards include electric shock, fire, mechanical injury, or chemical contamination. Safety testing is a core component of product safety certifications such as CE, UL, FCC, and CCC, and it applies to diverse industries, including electronics, appliances, machinery, construction, automotive, and toys.

Major Safety Testing Standard Systems

Different countries, regions, and industries have their own safety standards. Below are the primary global standard systems and representative standards:

1. International Standards

• IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) Standards:
  Cover foundational safety requirements for electrical and electronic products. Examples include:

• IEC 60664-1: Insulation coordination for low-voltage systems (e.g., electrical clearances, creepage distances).

• IEC 60950-1: Safety of information technology equipment (replaced by IEC 62368-1).

• IEC 62368-1: Safety requirements for audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment (replaces IEC 60065 and IEC 60950-1).

• IEC 60335 Series: Safety standards for household and similar electrical appliances (e.g., IEC 60335-1 for general requirements, plus specific standards for individual products).

• ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Standards:
  Focus on mechanical safety, material safety, and general safety principles. Examples include:

• ISO 12100: Safety of machinery – General principles for design (risk assessment and risk reduction).

• ISO 14971: Risk management for medical devices.

2. Chinese National Standards (GB)

• GB 4706 Series: Safety standards for household and similar electrical appliances (aligned with IEC 60335). Examples:

• GB 4706.1: General requirements.

• GB 4706.2: Specific requirements for electric irons.

• GB 4706.19: Specific requirements for washing machines.

• GB 7000 Series: Safety requirements for luminaires (e.g., GB 7000.1: General requirements and tests).

• GB 8898: Safety requirements for audio and video equipment (aligned with IEC 60065).

• GB/T 16895 Series: Low-voltage electrical installation design standards (aligned with IEC 60364).

3. U.S. Standards

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories) Standards:
  Widely used in the U.S., developed by UL. Examples include:

• UL 60335 Series: Safety standards for household appliances (aligned with IEC 60335, with stricter requirements in some cases).

• UL 94: Flammability testing for plastic materials (e.g., V-0, V-1, HB ratings).

• UL 1310: Safety for Class 2 power supplies.

• UL 62368-1: Safety for audio/video and IT equipment (aligned with IEC 62368-1).

• ASTM Standards:
  Focus on consumer products, materials, and machinery. Example:

• ASTM F963: Toy safety standard (covering physical, mechanical, flammability, and chemical toxicity).

4. European Standards (EN)

• EN Standards:
  Harmonized EU standards, often based on IEC standards. Examples include:

• EN 60335 Series: Safety for household appliances (aligned with IEC 60335).

• EN 62368-1: Safety for audio/video and IT equipment (aligned with IEC 62368-1).

• EN 55014 Series: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards (e.g., EN 55014-1 for emission, EN 55014-2 for immunity).

• Machinery Directive (MD) Standards:

• EN ISO 12100: Safety of machinery – Design principles.

• EN 349: Safety of machinery – Minimum gaps to avoid crushing.

5. Other Regional Standards

• Japan:

• JIS Standards: E.g., JIS C 60335 (appliance safety, aligned with IEC 60335).

• PSE Certification: Mandatory for electrical products, divided into “Specified Electrical Appliances” (e.g., plugs, transformers, requiring third-party certification) and “Non-Specified Electrical Appliances” (self-declaration).

• Australia/New Zealand:

• AS/NZS Standards: E.g., AS/NZS 60335 (appliance safety, aligned with IEC 60335), AS/NZS 3100 (electrical installation standards).

• Canada:

• CSA Standards: E.g., CSA C22.2 No. 60335 (appliance safety, aligned with IEC 60335), CSA C22.1 (Canadian Electrical Code).

Key Considerations for Safety Testing

• Product-Specific Standards: Each product type (e.g., toys, appliances, IT equipment) has unique requirements, often combining general standards (e.g., IEC 60335-1) with specific ones (e.g., IEC 60335-2-7 for washing machines).

• Market Requirements: Compliance with the target market’s standards (e.g., UL for the U.S., EN for the EU) is essential for market access.

• Testing Scope: Includes electrical safety (e.g., insulation, grounding), mechanical safety (e.g., stability, sharp edges), thermal safety (e.g., overheating), and chemical safety (e.g., restricted substances).

• Certification Process: Involves sample testing, documentation review, and issuance of test reports or certificates by accredited laboratories.

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, offers comprehensive safety testing solutions. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our test reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.

With the expanding children’s toy market, consumer attention to toy safety has grown significantly. Countries and regions have established stringent safety standards to ensure toys do not harm children. Standards such as ASTM F963-23, CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act), and CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) are critical compliance benchmarks for toy production and sales. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing addresses whether children’s golf toys require CPC certification and outlines the process for obtaining it.

Do Children’s Golf Toys Require CPC Certification?

Yes, children’s golf toys designed or intended primarily for children aged 12 and under require CPC certification. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA, 15 U.S.C. § 1278a) and related regulations (16 CFR Part 1110), these toys must be tested by a CPSC-accredited third-party laboratory to ensure compliance with safety standards, followed by the issuance of a CPC by the manufacturer or importer.

Children’s golf toys, which typically include plastic or wooden golf clubs, balls, and bags, pose several potential safety risks:

• Physical Risks: Sharp club tips, small balls, or detachable components may cause pinching, choking, or other injuries.

• Chemical Risks: Plastic parts or coatings may contain hazardous substances like lead or phthalates (6P), which can harm children’s health.

• Flammability Risks: Textile components, such as golf bags, require flammability testing to prevent fire hazards.

How to Obtain CPC Certification?

CPC certification involves testing by a CPSC-accredited laboratory and the preparation of a CPC certificate by the manufacturer or importer. Below is the detailed process for obtaining CPC certification for children’s golf toys:

1. Determine Testing Requirements
   Identify applicable safety standards based on the target market and product characteristics:

• GB 6675: Chinese toy safety standards for reference.

• EN71: Toy safety standards for mechanical, chemical, and flammability safety.

• SVHC Testing: Compliance with REACH for high-concern substances.

• CPSIA: Covers lead, phthalates, and other chemical restrictions.

• 16 CFR Part 1110: Mandates third-party testing and CPC issuance.

• ASTM F963: Toy safety standard for physical, mechanical, and chemical properties.

• United States:

• European Union (if applicable, as referenced in your prior SVHC question):

• China (if applicable):

• Product Characteristics: Confirm the toy’s materials (e.g., plastic, wood, metal), target age group (e.g., 3–6 or 6–12 years), and usage (indoor or outdoor).

2. Identify High-Risk Substances

• List the components of golf clubs, balls, and bags, focusing on materials like coatings, plastics, or textiles.

• Pay special attention to lead (<100 ppm in substrates, <90 ppm in coatings), phthalates (6P, <1000 ppm), and SVHCs (if targeting the EU).

3. Select a CPSC-Accredited Laboratory
   Choose a laboratory accredited by the CPSC and certified to ISO/IEC 17025, such as Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd., which offers:

• Expertise in CPSIA and ASTM F963 testing.

• Advanced equipment like XRF (X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer) and GC/MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry).

• CPSC-recognized and CMA/CNAS-accredited status for credible results.

4. Prepare Application Materials
   Gather the following documentation and samples:

• Specification sheet (materials, dimensions, weight).

• Design drawings or schematics.

• Production process description.

• Labeling and packaging samples (including age grading, e.g., “3+”).

• Company Information: Business license or registration certificate.

• Product Information:

• Existing Test Reports (if available): Previous lead or 6P test results to streamline the process.

• Samples: Provide 3–5 samples covering all colors, styles, or material variations (e.g., different coatings may contain distinct chemicals).

5. Submit Application and Conduct Testing

• Physical and Mechanical Safety: Small parts, sharp edges, or pinch points per ASTM F963 and 16 CFR 1500.48/49.

• Chemical Safety: Lead, phthalates, and other substances (e.g., formaldehyde for textiles).

• Flammability: Compliance with 16 CFR 1610 (textiles) or 16 CFR 1611 (vinyl films) for components like golf bags.

• Complete the CPC certification application form, providing company and product details.

• Send samples to the laboratory and pay testing fees.

• The laboratory tests for:

• Testing typically takes 3–7 working days, depending on the product’s complexity.

6. Obtain Test Report

• Test results (e.g., lead <100 ppm, phthalates <1000 ppm).

• Product photos and descriptions.

• Referenced standards (e.g., CPSIA, ASTM F963).

• Laboratory accreditation details.

• The laboratory issues a test report detailing:

• If non-compliant, adjust materials (e.g., switch to lead-free coatings) or design (e.g., enlarge small parts) and retest.

• The report is used to compile the CPC certificate and meet platform requirements (e.g., Temu, Amazon).

7. Issue CPC Certificate
   The manufacturer or importer prepares the CPC certificate, including:

• Product Description: Name, model, or SKU (e.g., “Children’s Golf Toy Set, Model ABC”).

• Applicable Standards: List all relevant standards (e.g., CPSIA, ASTM F963, 16 CFR 1303).

• Manufacturer/Importer Details: Name, address, and contact information.

• Testing Details: Test date, report number, and CPSC-accredited laboratory information.

• Production Details: Date and place of manufacture.

• Tracking Label Information: Batch number for traceability.

• U.S. Authorized Representative (USAR): Mandatory for Temu as of December 19, 2024.

• The CPC must be provided to distributors, retailers, or platforms and retained for at least 5 years.

8. Market Access and Compliance

• Submit the CPC certificate and test report to U.S. customs, retailers, or e-commerce platforms like Temu or Amazon.

• For Temu, upload the CPC to the Seller Central compliance center, ensuring USAR details are included.

• Retest products annually or with new production batches and monitor CPSC updates to maintain compliance.

Recommended Testing Agency

Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd. is a trusted third-party testing agency with extensive experience in CPC certification for children’s toys, including golf sets. Key advantages include:

• Accreditation: CMA/CNAS qualifications and CPSC-recognized laboratory status.

• Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of CPSIA, ASTM F963, and related U.S. safety standards.

• Comprehensive Services: Support from sample testing to CPC preparation and compliance guidance.

• Global Credibility: Test reports recognized internationally, ensuring compliance with U.S. market requirements.

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, offers comprehensive CPC certification solutions for children’s golf toys. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our test reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.

With the continuous growth of the children’s toy market, consumer focus on toy safety has intensified. Countries and regions have established stringent safety standards to ensure toys do not harm children. Standards such as ASTM F963-23, CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act), and CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) are critical compliance benchmarks for toy production and sales. Today, the editor from Huabiao Testing explains what a CPSIA report is and outlines the process for obtaining one.

What is a CPSIA Report?

A CPSIA report is a detailed test report issued by a CPSC-accredited laboratory to demonstrate that a children’s product complies with the safety requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). The CPSIA, enacted in 2008, imposes strict safety standards for products intended for children aged 12 and under, such as toys, clothing, bedding, and other children’s items. The report verifies compliance with specific safety tests, including:

• Lead Content: Total lead in accessible components must not exceed 100 ppm (substrates) or 90 ppm (surface coatings).

• Phthalates: Limits on six specified phthalates (e.g., DEHP, DBP, BBP) to 0.1% (1000 ppm) each.

• Flammability: Compliance with standards like 16 CFR 1610 (textiles) or 16 CFR 1611 (vinyl films).

• Heavy Metals: Testing for substances like cadmium or mercury, if applicable.

• Physical and Mechanical Safety: Ensuring no small parts, sharp edges, or other hazards (per ASTM F963 for toys).

• Other Requirements: Depending on the product, additional tests (e.g., FDA 21 CFR for food contact materials or LHAMA for art materials) may apply.

The CPSIA report is a prerequisite for issuing a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC), which is required for market entry in the United States, including sales on platforms like Amazon and Temu.

Process for Obtaining a CPSIA Report

1. Determine CPSIA Applicability:
   Identify whether the product falls within the scope of CPSIA, which applies to all products designed or intended primarily for children aged 12 and under. Different product types (e.g., toys, apparel, scissors) have specific testing requirements under standards like ASTM F963, 16 CFR 1303 (lead in coatings), or 16 CFR 1307 (phthalates). Use the CPSC’s Regulatory Robot tool or consult a testing agency to confirm applicable standards.

2. Prepare Product Samples:
   Gather representative samples of the product, ensuring they reflect all models, colors, or variations intended for the market. For example, if a toy has multiple color variants, test samples should cover all materials used.

3. Select a CPSC-Accredited Laboratory:
   Choose a third-party laboratory accredited by the CPSC, such as Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd., which is also CMA/CNAS-accredited. Verify the lab’s accreditation for specific CPSIA tests on the CPSC website.

4. Submit Samples for Testing:
   Send the prepared samples to the laboratory, along with technical documentation, including:

• Product specifications (e.g., name, model, material composition).

• Bill of Materials (BOM).

• Intended use and age group. The laboratory conducts tests based on CPSIA requirements, such as:

• Chemical Testing: Lead, phthalates, and other substances using XRF (X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer) or GC/MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry).

• Physical Testing: Small parts, sharp edges, or pinch points (per 16 CFR 1500.48/49 or ASTM F963).

• Flammability Testing: Compliance with 16 CFR 1610/1611. Testing typically takes 5–15 working days, depending on product complexity.

5. Receive and Review the Test Report:
   The laboratory issues a detailed CPSIA test report indicating whether the product complies with all applicable standards. The report includes:

• Test methods and standards applied.

• Results for each tested parameter (e.g., lead <100 ppm).

• Laboratory details and accreditation. If the product fails, adjust materials (e.g., switch to lead-free coatings) or design (e.g., remove small parts) and retest.

6. Prepare the Children’s Product Certificate (CPC):
   Upon receiving a compliant CPSIA test report, the manufacturer or importer drafts the CPC, which includes:

• Product Description: Name, model, or SKU (e.g., “Children’s Plush Toy, Model XYZ”).

• Applicable Standards: List all relevant CPSC standards (e.g., CPSIA, ASTM F963, 16 CFR 1303).

• Manufacturer/Importer Details: Name, address, and contact information.

• Testing Details: Date, location, and CPSC-accredited laboratory information.

• Production Details: Date and place of manufacture.

• Tracking Label Information: Batch number for traceability.

• U.S. Authorized Representative (USAR): Required for platforms like Temu (as of December 19, 2024). The CPC must be provided to distributors, retailers, or platforms and retained for at least 5 years.

7. Market Access and Compliance:
   Submit the CPSIA test report and CPC to U.S. customs, retailers, or e-commerce platforms (e.g., Amazon, Temu) to meet market entry requirements. For Temu, upload the CPC to the Seller Central compliance center, ensuring inclusion of USAR details. Regularly retest products (annually or per new batch) and monitor CPSC regulatory updates to maintain compliance.

Recommended Testing Agency

Ningbo Huabiao Testing Co., Ltd. is a trusted third-party testing agency with extensive experience in CPSIA testing and CPC certification. Key advantages include:

• Accreditation: CMA/CNAS qualifications and CPSC-recognized laboratory status.

• Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of CPSIA, ASTM F963, and related U.S. safety standards.

• Comprehensive Services: Support from sample testing to CPC preparation and compliance guidance.

• Global Credibility: Test reports recognized internationally, ensuring compliance with U.S. market requirements.

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, offers comprehensive CPSIA certification solutions. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our test data is accurate and reliable, and our test reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products succeed globally.