Calls On Prime Minister For Action On Noisy Toys, Canada

Main Category: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 18 Dec 2007 - 2:00 PST

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In light of the Prime Minister's announcement today on product safety, the Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (CASLPA) is urging the government to include noise as an important element of toy safety when product safety guidelines are being revised.

CASLPA commends the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health on their proactive steps to ensure product safety and the safety of toys for children in Canada. However, audiologists and speech-language pathologists stress that noise is also a key part of toy safety that must be considered when Health Canada proceeds with product safety legislation.

In his announcement, Prime Minister Harper advised that the Government will begin engaging consumer and industry stakeholders on how best to proceed with the Food and Consumer Safety Action Plan in the New Year.

"The Prime Minister's announcement comes at a crucial time, when many toys are wrapped waiting to be opened on Christmas day," says CASLPA Executive Director Ondina Love. "Some of these toys may emit dangerous noise levels, and it is crucial that Health Canada revise product safety legislation and acceptable noise levels in toys, in order to protect our children's hearing."

The existing Hazardous Product Act currently bans toys emitting noise levels exceeding 100 decibels. This level is too high! As a point of comparison, audiologists point out that the International Standards Organization uses a level of 85 decibels as a guideline - a level that is much safer for children's small ears.

With the holiday season just around the corner, toy safety is a pressing matter that has been receiving much attention. CASLPA would also alert parents and consumers to the dangers of noisy toys.

"With Christmas only one week away, it is crucial that parents understand the dangers of noisy toys," says Love. "Parents and consumers are encouraged to visit CASLPA's website for a list of safety tips to consider when buying toys."

CASLPA, with more than 5,000 members, is the only national body that supports and represents the professional needs of speech-language pathologists, audiologists and supportive personnel inclusively within one organization. Through this support, CASLPA champions the needs of people with communications disorders.

http://www.caslpa.ca