**Parents Warned About Dangerous Chemicals in School Supplies**
In a recent announcement, the Labour Inspection Department of Cyprus has issued a warning to parents regarding the potential hazards associated with certain school supplies. The department cautioned that some products available on the market may contain harmful chemicals that could pose health risks to children.
The warning, released on Thursday, highlighted that products failing to meet legal safety requirements should not be accessible to consumers. However, the department has identified a range of dangerous substances that have been detected in various school supplies, raising concerns about their safety.
Among the most alarming findings are plastic products that may contain phthalates, chemicals known for their toxicity, particularly regarding reproductive health. Additionally, cadmium, a substance classified as carcinogenic, has been found in some items. The department also flagged leather clothing and footwear, which may contain hexavalent chromium or dimethyl fumarate (DMF). These substances are known to cause sensitization and allergic reactions in individuals.
The warning extends to a variety of common school supplies, including superglue, markers, correction fluids, and coloured inks or paints. These items may contain organic solvents such as benzene, chloroform, and toluene, all of which are recognized for their toxic or carcinogenic properties. The Labour Inspection Department emphasized that some school supplies could be classified as hazardous, necessitating the appropriate hazard labelling in Greek.
The department referenced several non-compliant products that have been previously identified either in Cyprus or other European Union countries, which are listed on the European Commission’s Safety Gate system. Notable examples include Chinese-made children’s markers and coloured pencils that were found to contain benzene and phthalates, as well as pencils that were tested positive for lead. The presence of lead is particularly concerning due to its neurotoxic effects.
Further investigations revealed that some Chinese-made pencil cases contained phthalates such as DEHP and DBP, while certain superglues were found to have chloroform. Nickel was also detected in some metal pens and mechanical pencils, raising additional health concerns.
The department pointed out other flagged products, including a Chinese-made notebook with a plastic cover that contained cadmium and phthalates, as well as sports shoes that tested positive for hexavalent chromium and DMF, both of which can lead to allergic reactions.
In light of these findings, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the safety of the products they purchase. The Labour Inspection Department advised parents to regularly consult the EU’s Safety Gate system for updates on non-compliant products. Parents who encounter any products that raise safety concerns are urged to reach out to the Labour Inspection Department at the following contact numbers: 22 405611, 22 405637, or 22 405609.
As the new school year approaches, the department’s warning serves as a crucial reminder for parents to exercise caution when selecting school supplies for their children. Ensuring the safety of these products is essential in protecting children from potential health risks associated with hazardous chemicals.