With the increasing global implementation of targeted regulations, the control of PFAS has intensified.
Toys are manufactured from a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, fabrics, and leather. HQTS-QAI advises companies to prioritize testing for PFAS-controlled substances, particularly in toy products made from high-risk materials such as fabrics, coatings, leather, paper, and wood. These materials often have waterproof, stain-resistant, oil-repellent, or non-stick properties and should not exceed a total fluorine content of 20 ppm.
PFAS Control Requirements for Toys in U.S. States:
|
State |
Requirement |
Effective Date |
|
Colorado (Toy chest with upholstered lid) |
Must not be intentionally introduced |
January 1, 2024 |
|
California |
Must not be intentionally added, or have a functional or technological effect. Organic fluorine content: < 100 mg/kg (100 ppm) by 2025 and < 50 mg/kg (50 ppm) by 2027 |
January 1, 2025 (100 ppm), January 1, 2027 (50 ppm) |
|
Maine |
Must not be intentionally introduced |
January 1, 2030 |
|
Washington State (CHCC) |
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and related substances, perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and their salts: < Practical Quantification Limit (PQL) for intentional addition; < 100 mg/kg (100 ppm) for contaminants |
August 21, 2011 |
|
Vermont (CHCC) |
PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFHpA, PFNA: < PQL for intentional addition; < 100 mg/kg (100 ppm) for contaminants |
June 10, 2014 (PFOA, PFOS), July 1, 2022 (PFHxS, PFHpA, PFNA) |
|
Oregon (HPCCCH) |
PFOS and its salts: < PQL for intentional addition; < 100 mg/kg (100 ppm) for contaminants |
January 1, 2018 |
|
Maine |
PFOS and its salts: < PQL for intentional addition; < 100 mg/kg (100 ppm) for contaminants |
July 28, 2020 |
|
Maine |
Report if intentionally introduced |
January 1, 2023 |
|
|
|
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What Are PFAS and Their Associated Risks?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of over 9,000 chemicals characterized by carbon-fluorine bonds, known for their durability and resistance to water, heat, and grease. PFAS are commonly used in non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, and industrial applications. Unfortunately, these substances persist in the environment, accumulating in water, soil, and air, as well as in living organisms.
Studies have shown that PFAS are present in the blood of over 98% of Americans tested, and they have even been detected in remote regions of the Earth. Although limited research has been conducted on the human health effects of PFAS, they have been linked to a range of health concerns, including cancer, elevated cholesterol, hormonal disruption, and reduced vaccine efficacy in children.
HQTS-QAI Recommendations
As regulatory bodies increasingly focus on perfluorinated substances, enforcement and oversight measures have also become more stringent. HQTS-QAI recommends that companies promptly assess their products' compliance with PFAS regulations to ensure they fulfill the requirements across various global markets.
HQTS-QAI's laboratory is staffed by a highly skilled technical team with expertise in relevant regulations and standards. Equipped with advanced instruments, we offer comprehensive testing services in accordance with the latest industry standards. For further consultation, please feel free to reach out to us.