The promised lead testing of toys on the market by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards is yet to get underway as the Bureau moves to link up with a Caribbean institution in the absence of the capacity here.
The promised testing had come in the wake of growing concerns over lead paint used on Chinese-made toys which have been subject to massive recalls. The testing is also deemed critical as the local import season for Christmas kicks off.
Evadnie Fields, head of the Bureau’s information services department, told Stabroek News that after follow ups with local entities that conduct lead testing it was found that they do not have the capability to test for small amounts of lead. The Bureau requires the testing of traces of lead on items.
Fields said testing for small amounts of lead requires sensitive equipment and as a result the Bureau is now exploring the possibility of having the tests done at the Caribbean Industrial Research Institute, a provider of independent testing and analytical services in the region.
On August 15, US toy giant Mattel Inc recalled 9.5 million toys for magnet and lead paint hazards and on August 1 its division, Fisher-Price recalled more than a million toys for a lead paint hazard, all made in China. Lead can cause brain and kidney damage.
The toys recalled were Sesame Street Elmo Tub Tote, Dora Let’s Go Adventure, Elmo Jack in the Box, Barney Band Buddies, Barney Best Manners Phone, Sesame Street Giggle Tool belt, Sponge Bob Squarepants, Ernie’s Splashin’ Fun, Giggle Doodler and Elmo in the Giggle Box.
Fields assures that none of the recalled toys was found on the market. She said that the Bureau is also present at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri.
