In recent weeks and months many toys have been recalled from
the market due to the presence of lead in the paint applied to the toy.
The recalls are primarily being carried out by the major toy
manufacturers; however, there is reason to believe that the problem
exists throughout the toy industry.
In response to the concern regarding high levels of lead in
toys and children’s jewelry, Oxford Instruments is pleased to
announce a special configuration of the X-MET3000TXR+ which provides a
simple method of screening any toys or other products for lead content.
The X MET3000TXR+ is a hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer. The
principle behind XRF analysis is that when a sample is excited by X-ray
energy, it reflects (or fluoresces) energy. By measuring intensity and
quantity of this reflected energy, the chemical composition of the
sample can be determined.
Since the equipment is portable, it can be taken to any
location – a store, a warehouse, an incoming port –
to test the toys. In a very fast measurement, the instrument can
determine the presence or absence of lead in the toy. In addition, the
test for lead can also identify other possible hazardous materials in
the toy including: arsenic, cadmium, mercury, chrome, nickel and other
hazardous metals.
Given the liability of the toy seller to ensure that the toy
is safe, XRF screening is a wise investment. Recent recalls have cost
companies money and reputation. In addition, the accuracy of XRF
screening can significantly reduce the false-positive results for the
presence of lead that other techniques may give.
Lead exposure is especially critical in young children under
three years of age. Exposure to excess lead at this age can lead to
brain damage and retarded development. In 1998, the US Government
instituted regulations which limit the amount of lead in toys and other
consumer products which are expected to be used by infants to 0.06% (or
600 ppm). If the item contains a higher amount of lead, it is
considered hazardous material and must be carefully regulated or
withdrawn from the market.
Posted 28th August 2007
