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Chinese-made toy foam mats recalled in Europe |
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Wednesday, 16 February 2011 00:00 |
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Kidsafe Victoria has prompted an investigation by Australian regulatory authorities into the recent banning of children’s foam mats by the Belgian and French governments.
The popular interlocking foam mats, with alphabet and other designs, have been found to contain formamides, prompting their recall.
Internationally EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) foam mats are typically sourced from the same location, China. Foam mats are widely available and popular in Australia and contribute to the $14.7 billion Chinese toy industry.
Dr Mark Stokes, President of Kidsafe Victoria said the organisation had reported this issue to both state and national regulatory authorities and had been assured they will act quickly and commence tests on mats sold in Australia.
Dr Stokes said, “Children should not be exposed to high level toxic products. Young children are potentially at most risk as they have a tendency to place everything in their mouths. Tests need to be conducted to see if these toxins are present in products available in Australia, and if so, in what levels.”
Formamides can be used to soften materials; however research has shown that they can also be responsible for:
• Eye and skin irritation
• Reproduction problems
• Potential cancer risk
Dr Stokes said, “Consumers need to be assured that their mats are safe for their children; we have every confidence the regulatory authorities are acting on this and will keep the public informed.”
KIDSAFE VIC NOTICE: FOAM MATS
Kidsafe Vic has alerted both State and Federal agencies responsible for product safety that some Foam Mats had been withdrawn in Belgium and France.
The status of the situation is as follows:
- This is precautionary advice to alert the public.
- Parents are advised not to panic, but instead to contact their supplier, requesting evidence in writing that their mats have been tested for formamides and detailing these results.
- Until this is known, Kidsafe recommends you put the mats away from your children.
- Formamides have not yet been tested for in any products in Australia as far as we know, but the regulatory authorities will be doing this shortly, if not already.
We have every confidence the regulatory authorities will keep the public informed.
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