Mexico. The Official Mexican Standard 252-SSA1-2008 that establishes the limits of bioavailability of heavy metals in toys for children under three years of age, has been submitted to public consultation by the Federal Commission for the protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris).This consultation also includes the chemical specifications and test methods that manufacturers comply with, who must submit their comments on the standard to the health authority within 60 days.
Standard 252 establishes the limits of implementation of lead, antimony, arsenic, barium cadmium, chromium, mercury and selenium in infant toys, as well as for school supplies such as plasticine, crayons, watercolors and pencils, among others.
One of the modifications proposed by Cofrepris is the reduction of the maximum concentration of lead in the aforementioned articles, which would go from the 600 milligrams (mg) per kilogram currently allowed, to 90 mg / kg.
The setting of the new limits on the use of heavy metals seeks to reduce the use of these compounds in the manufacture of paints and inks that are used in the creation or coating of these consumer items with which people have contact, especially young children, since they can suck them, licking or swallowing them and putting your health at risk.
