New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has signed into law an act regulating lead content in electrical cord casings on seasonal and decorative lights,
Signed on November 30, 2021, the Act – A4522A (Chapter 634, 2021 session) – amends Chapter 45 of the Public Health Law by adding a new section (1376-B) regarding the manufacture and sale of seasonal and decorative lighting products containing lead.
The Act defines ‘seasonal and decorative lighting products’ as portable, plug-connected, temporary-use lighting products and accessories that have a nominal 120-volt input voltage rating. Products within the scope of this rule are factory-assembled with push-in, midget or miniature screw base lamp holders connected in series or parallel, directly across the 120-volt input.
Types of lighting product covered by the Act include:
- Wired holiday string lights
- Pre-lit artificial Christmas trees, plants, flowers or wreaths, stockings, stars, candles and light sculptures
Under the terms of the Act, the electrical cord casings of these products must contain no more than 100 ppm of lead or they should carry, as a minimum, the following warning either printed on or attached to the product:
“WARNING: HANDLING THE COATED ELECTRICAL WIRE OF THIS PRODUCT MAY EXPOSE YOU TO LEAD. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER USE”
Persons, firms, corporations or association violating these provisions will be subject to a civil penalty of not more than USD 1,000 for each violation.
The act comes into effect on February 28, 2022.
SGS Luminaire Product Services
SGS’s global network of accredited testing laboratories and specialized teams of local experts offer a range of services to manufacturers and retailers in the luminaire industry. They understand regulations and standards for every product type and target market and can help reduce risk, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance. After all, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s Luminaire Product Services
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Brian Lo
Technical Manager – Restricted Substances
Email: crs.media@sgs.com
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