Rynek i konsumenci · 30.09.1998

Multi-Purpose Lighters; Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

The Commission has reason to believe that unreasonable risks of injury and death are associated with multi-purpose lighters that can be operated by children under age 5. Multi-purpose lighters are hand- held, self-igniting, flame-producing products that operate on fuel and typically are used to light devices such as charcoal and gas grills and fireplaces. Devices intended primarily for igniting smoking materials are excluded; such products are already subject to a child-resistance standard at 16 CFR part 1210. The Commission is aware of 178 fires from January 1988 through August 6, 1998, that were started by children under age 5 using multi- purpose lighters. These fires resulted in 29 deaths and 71 injuries. This notice of proposed rulemaking (``NPR'') proposes a rule mandating performance standards for the child resistance of multi- purpose lighters. The Commission solicits written comments from interested persons on the proposed rule.