CPSC Sets Deadline for Fast Track Recallers to Start Using Online Tool (Jan. 31)

January 4, 2022 | The Toy Association is reminding members that January 31 is the effective date for a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requirement that companies must use a new online portal for “Fast Track” recalls. (Under Section 15 of the Consumer Product Safety Act, businesses are required to report potentially hazardous and/or noncompliant products that they manufacture, distribute, import, or sell.)

The Fast Track Recall Program serves consumers by removing potentially hazardous products from the marketplace as quickly and efficiently as possible. It also rewards businesses that act quickly by eliminating the need for CPSC staff to make a preliminary determination of a “substantial product hazard.” The new online portal replaces the existing system which allows companies to provide recall information via email, fax, or mail. As of the effective date, any Fast Track recalls submitted using these methods will be rejected and requested to be resubmitted via the online system.

The new system was designed to make it easier for companies to expedite recalls and to navigate the submission process, such as using a more user- and mobile-friendly interface. Businesses that participate in the Fast Track program will also be able to review and approve a system-generated draft recall press release before submitting their report, to further speed up the overall recall process.

According to the Fast Track Recall Program website, in order to participate, businesses must be prepared to implement corrective action plans – including a consumer-level recall (refund, repair, or replacement). In addition, the firm must immediately stop sale and distribution of the product. 

“Safety is the number one priority of The Toy Association, and we are pleased to see the rollout of this new system which will help to speed up the process of removing dangerous products from the marketplace, and more importantly getting any potentially unsafe toys out of children’s hands,” said Alan Kaufman, senior vice president of technical affairs at The Toy Association.