As part of U.S. PIRG’s “Safer School Supplies: Shopping guide,” a variety of school products were tested, including several other brands of crayons from Houston, California, Denver, and Chicago. Tremolite asbestos was only found in Playskool crayons. Crayola, Target’s Up & Up, Cra-Z-Art, and RoseArt were all asbestos-free.
As a result of these findings, U.S. PIRG is now trying to pressure Dollar Tree and online retailers like eBay and Amazon to no longer sell the Playskool crayons that tested positive for this toxic chemical.
Asbestos Also Found in 2015
Asbestos was previously found in many other crayon brands, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Action Fund, in 2015.
The four crayon brands named in the report include:
- Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Crayons
- Amscan Crayons
- Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
- Saban Power Rangers Super Megaforce Crayons
Identifying Product Safety
In its guide, the U.S. PIRG advised parents to seek Art and Creative Materials Institute-certified product seals when purchasing art supplies, including glue and markers. This seal signifies that a toxicologist tested the products for any acute or chronic hazards. In regards to other school necessities, such as water bottles or lunch boxes, parents should look for the Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) label, which signifies that the product complies with applicable product safety rules for chidlren.
According to the U.S. PIRG’s guide, it was challenging to find products without certifications at bigger retailers like Target. On the other hand, Dollar Tree did not have a single product with a CPC label. Unfortunately, asbestos is only banned in certain products. Until better laws are put into effect, the U.S. PIRG is advising parents to look for certain labels to protect their children.
Asbestos Exposure Attorneys
If you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos and developed a harmful medical condition as a result, you have a right to pursue compensation. At Shrader & Associates, L.L.P., our team of asbestos attorneys is dedicated to representing those who have been exposed to this dangerous and toxic chemical nationwide.
Begin your case today and contact our law office at (713) 787-3733 to request your free initial case review.