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Phthalates in Bathing Equipment for Children
A Danish EPA/Chemical Inspection Service survey of water wings and swimming rings for young children shows that many of the products found on the market contain phthalates Phthalates were banned in bathing equipment for children under the age of three as from 1 January 2004, and since 1999 they have been banned in toys and other items for young children less than three years of age.
The Chemical Inspection Service examined 22 water wings, swimming rings, and paddling pools for their phthalate content. Eleven of the products examined exceeded the limit value of 0.05 per cent. In some of the products the content of phthalates was as high as 29 per cent. The Danish EPA intends to report the retailers of the illegal products to the police. The retailers have been notified of the results, and the Danish EPA is now awaiting their comments.
One of the phthalates found in the swimming equipment, DEHP, is classified as harmful to reproduction and is also on the EU list of endocrine disrupters. Also DINP and DIDP were found, but these are not classified. All three phthalates are currently under risk assessment.
Among the EU countries, Denmark is one of those doing most to reduce the use of phthalates. Most recently, the WHO Conference of Ministers in Budapest adopted a text stating calling for more focus in the EU on problematic phthalates in products for young children. This has already been reflected in the EU proposal on permanent regulations for phthalates in toys and other items for children.
Further information: Danish EPA, Hanne Thygesen, ht@mst.dk, phone: +45 3266 0100
Read the full press release on the Danish EPA website: http://www.mst.dk/news/09650000.htm
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