In November 2024, SafetyGate, the rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products, identified a number of safety concerns that led to the recall of several products from the market. Some products harbor potential hazards that threaten children’s health. Recalled products include clothing designed with inadequate safety measures, accessories containing chemicals and protective equipment that provides inadequate protection. Below are detailed descriptions of the risks and products identified in November:
- Kids Hooded Sweatshirt (A12/03145/24): Functional strings in the neck area can become entangled during various activities of children, leading to the risk of suffocation. This product was found to be contrary to the General Product Safety Directive and European standard EN 14682 and withdrawn from the market.
- Children’s Clothing Set (A12/03202/24): Functional drawstrings on the hooded top similarly pose a risk of strangulation for children. The product does not comply with the General Product Safety Directive and the EN 14682 standard.
- Hat (A12/03250/24 ,A12/03251/24, A12/03252/24 ): These hats release high levels of nickel (values ranging from 4.14 ยตg/cmยฒ/week to 77.92 ยตg/cmยฒ/week). Nickel is a strong allergenic substance that can cause allergic reactions in direct and prolonged contact with the skin. The products have been found in violation of the REACH Regulation,
- Protective Equipment Kit (A11/00147/24 ): Wrist guards do not have sufficient rigidity, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a fall. The product did not comply with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation and EN 14120 standard.
- Slippers (A12/03301/24 ): The product contains chemicals harmful to the environment. Excessive concentrations of dibutyl phthalates (DBP), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and lead can lead to adverse health effects. This product was also found in violation of the REACH Regulation.
- Particulate Filter Respirator (A12/03312/24): The total filtration capacity of the mask does not meet the necessary health and safety requirements. In addition, the physical resistance of the filter material is too high, preventing the wearer from breathing properly and creating a risk of suffocation. The product does not comply with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulation and the EN 149 standard.
These warnings underline the ongoing importance of complying with strict safety regulations and standards. Manufacturers must strictly comply with European regulations to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. Failure to do so could jeopardize consumer health and lead to long-term legal and economic consequences.
