Federal agencies recall or issue warnings about hundreds of products each year. The
products which are defective are defective because of design flaws, manufacturing defects,
and failure to meet safety requirements. Recalls and warning are also issued when
information arises questioning the safety of the production materials, there has been
accidental contamination or tampering, and there is widespread unforeseen misuse of
products.
Some recalls occur when manufacturers realize that their products
are not safe for their intended use. Even though many recalls are voluntary, some
manufacturers are forced to make a recall. The government agency that regulates
consumer safety for most common products is the Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC). The CPSC works to reduce the risk of injuries and deaths from consumer
products by:
- developing voluntary standards with industry
- Issuing and enforcing mandatory standards; banning consumer products
if no feasible standard would adequately protect the public
- obtaining the recall of products or arranging for their repair
- conducting research on potential product hazards
- informing and educating consumers through the media, state and local
governments, private organizations, and by responding to consumer inquiries. 1
When the CPSC discovers products that are defective, or dangerous
when used in their normal manner, they work with the manufacturer to recall the product at
issue. Those press releases are compiled by the CPSC and can be viewed by the
public. Choose here to view a list of recalls
published by the Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC).
It is also possible to contact the CPSC directly.
- To report an unsafe consumer product or a product-related
inquiry, call the CPSC toll-free Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or (800) 638-8270 for the
hearing and speech impaired.
- To request a free copy of our publication listing, write to us
at U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C. 20207.
- For additional information, contact our nearest field office
.
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