standard harmonization & consumers
TRANSCRIPT
Standard Harmonization & ConsumersNancy A. CowlesExecutive DirectorKids In Danger
©Kids In Danger 2016
Kids In Danger
Kids In Danger (KID) was founded in 1998, following the death of Danny Keysar in an unsafe portable crib.
About KID
KID’s Mission
•Promote the development of safer children’s products•Advocate for children• Educate the public, especially parents and caregivers, about keeping their children safe.
Standards Work
Member of ASTM F15 committee and serves on juvenile products, toys, hoverboards, laundry packets and furniture safety sub-committees.
Board member of ANSIReviews and submits comments on CPSC mandatory standards
Section 104 of the CPSIA is named after Danny – his legacy.
Danny’s Law
Harmonization
Consumer Goals
Harmonization should increase safety, not lower standardsEase of complying should not outweigh safetyLocal consumers shouldn’t lose power over their own marketplace
What makes a strong standard process?
Adequate participation by consumers Transparent and logical processParticipation by regulatory agency and potential for regulatory oversight if warranted
The standard has to be widely used and accepted
Standard process should not be wholly controlled by regulated industry
Must effectively address the hazard at issue
What should be considered when harmonizing
Are all stakeholders at the table?Are all potential impacts discussed?
What changes will it require from the regulated industry?
What changes will it make in protecting consumers?
What is the impact on any publically developed regulations or bans?
Were the standards under consideration developed under the parameters stated above?
TTIP Discussions
Reducing technical barriers to trade: ie, regulations and standards, certification and testing
The WTO Agreement on TBT encourages coherence among parties, but specifically does not require parties to change their levels of protection.
Trans Atlantic Consumer Dialogue
Cooperation or harmonization should aim at maintaining or improving the level of protection
Cooperate on enforcement aspects
Strengthen consumer representation nationally and internationally
Dangers of Mutual Recognition Agreements
Equivalency is hard to measure
Consumers are left in the dark about the products safety – assuming it meets the same standards as other products
Regulators have a hard time monitoring injury and safety
Benefits of Harmonization
Opportunity to review standards and certification for efficiencies and areas of agreement
Strengthen consumer safety when aligned toward the stronger standard or process
Better serve a global marketplace
