Dangerous Chemicals in Toys

Brought on by a wave of toy recalls in the past year, the United States Senate passed a bill banning the use of lead in toys and temporarily banned six types of phthalates in the manufacturing of toys as well. Several toys manufactured in China were found to be painted with a lead-based paint.

Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning poses a great risk to children. It is generally caused by ingestion, as when a child puts a toy in their mouth or swallows one. An overwhelming exposure to lead can lead to neurological damage, renal disease, and reproductive toxicity. Also, a direct link has been made between early lead exposure and extreme learning disabilities. Symptoms of lead poisoning include:

• Reduced cognitive ability
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Lethargy or Hyperactivity
• Seizure or Coma, in extreme cases

Phthalates in Toys

Diisonyl phthalate (DIPH) is used as a softening agent in children’s teething products. Other forms of phthalate are used in vinyl products, including toys like rubber ducks and dolls. They are used because they make vinyl soft and flexible; however, they also can pose a health risk to your child.

Avoiding Phthalates

There are steps you can take to avoid using these types of product and keeping your child safe.

• Use toys made of other materials, like silicone.
• Look for toys with labels on packaging that state they are “phthalate free.”
• Familiarize yourself with manufacturers who stopped using phthalates in 1999.

If you suspect that your child was injured by the chemicals in their toys, contact the Racine defective toy attorneys of Habush, Habush, & Rottier at 800.682.3434 to discuss your case and further legal options.