The Danger of Recalled Chinese Toys
During the last weeks we have learned the shocking truth about Chinese imports: many of them have serious fabrication flaws, including problems that can pose a risk to our kids.
The toy industry, especially the giant leader Mattel, have requested the recall of several thusand toys that suffer from defective conditions.
Among the main causes of toy recalls is the use of lead-based paint on many of these toys. Chinese companies have used materials that are generally prohibited in the US, and for some reason they were not caught before the products have been distributed.
Who is at fault?
It is really difficult to determine who is at fault is this case, despite the fact that many of the involved have some fault in what occurred. The chinese companies certainly should be aware of the legislation in this country, in that such material have been banned for safety reasons.
The american companies, including Mattel, have a big chunk of the responsability for this situation. No one should seel a product, especially toys, without the required safety inspections. The fact that this happened shows how the production process is not been properly controlled.
What are the risks?
Despite the big controversy, the real risks posed by these toys are not as big as one can immagine initially. First, the fact that the there is lead in the paint doesn't mean that it is in a form that can be easily swalled. Most toys don't peal off the paint so easily.
It is necessary, however, that proper care be taken in case you bought such a defective product. The first step is to identify any toys from the recall list, and remove it from use by your kids -- put the toys in a place where it will not be used.
Is this going to happen again?
With the current process of globalization it is increasingly difficult to trace the origin of manufactured items. This makes it harder for the legal authorities to access the quality of products, and so the possibility of this happening increases.
On the other hand, there is a new pressure for manufacturers to provide safety measure for their products, independent of where they are produced. The chinease companies are starting to feel the heat, and they will have to adapt to the process. Ultimately, this will lead to safer products, and we hope that in the future we won't have to worry about this kind of safety risk.
