Toy fingerprint powder has asbestos

[Joan.of.the.Arch]

The lawsuit was brought by parents who thought their kids were just learning about science while blowing on the special fingerprint powder included in the CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Fingerprint Examination Kit and the CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Forensic Lab Kit. Tests eventually revealed that the toys weren’t just dishing up a dose of learning; they were also dishing up a dose of asbestos, a mineral known to cause health problems.

Customers Get Refunded For Tainted Toys - Bankruptcy Beat - WSJ

[disneysteve]

I think my daughter actually has one of those kits. Of course, I wouldn't be the least bit concerned about her using it. So many of these "safety" recalls are ridiculous. Assuming she didn't snort the bottle of powder, the minimal exposure she might get to asbestos using this stuff couldn't possibly pose a health risk. People who got asbestos-related diseases are guys who worked closely with the stuff for years. A tiny exposure like this would be insignificant.

[wincrasher]

There is a greater issue here Steve.

There are substances that are supposed to be banned. Like lead paint, asbestos, etc.

It seems that the Chinese manufacturers of many products totally blow off our laws and ship goods containing banned or harmful substances. It's especially agregious when it's in children's toys.

Consumer really can have no confidence that the products they are buying are safe when our own government is so pro-business that it turns a blind eye to product safety and consumer protection. Lawsuits seem to be the only way to get action. That's the real shame in this.

[disneysteve]

There is a greater issue here Steve.

There are substances that are supposed to be banned. Like lead paint, asbestos, etc.

Oh, I agree. It shouldn't happen. I was just saying that I think people sometimes get a little crazy when it does happen and the actual risk of harm is minimal if any.