We have seen a recent surge in devices and toys targeting “fidgeters” to help them cope with the constant need to be tapping, spinning, or moving. The fidget spinner has clearly boomed and become the most popular of these toys. Although children of 12 years or younger are the primary audience, anyone can use a fidget spinner due to its basic build.
Fidget Spinner Safety Concerns
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is currently investigating reported incidents associated with fidget spinners. While reports have not been released yet, the government agency had a few suggestions to ensure consumer safety while using these toys:
Choking Hazards: Fidget spinners are typically made out of a combination of plastic and metal. If a toy breaks, it can shatter into smaller pieces that become a choking hazard for small children. It was also reported that some older children were putting the entire fidget spinner in their mouths.
Fire Hazards: Some battery-operated fidget spinners have led to fires. To avoid this, the CPSC recommends being present while charging any fidget spinner and only using the cable that originally came with the toy. In addition, it is always a good idea to ensure that your smoke alarms are working properly.
Legal Obligations for Consumer Products
Companies involved in manufacturing, distributing, and selling fidget spinners are required by law to comply with consumer product safety rules and regulations. For fidget spinners (and toys in general), companies must comply with testing and labeling requirements such as the presence of harmful chemicals (like lead and phthalates), labeling for any battery specifications, and more. If they receive any information indicating that they have failed to meet these requirements, it must be reported to the CPSC.