PollyPockets from Mattell may contain lead Product Recall

[HappyCappy]

Mattel announces expanded recall of toys

One product recalled for impermissible levels of lead November 2006 magnet recall expanded TORONTO, Aug. 14 /CNW/ - Mattel, Inc. announced today that the companyhas voluntarily recalled one toy from the "CARS" die-cast vehicle line("Sarge" character), sold between May 2007 and August 2007, containingimpermissible levels of lead. The recalled vehicles include 436,000 total toysworld-wide, 32,800 of which are in Canada. The recall of the Sarge toy results from Mattel's increased investigationand ongoing testing procedures following the recall of select Fisher-Pricetoys on August 1, 2007. The toy was produced by Early Light Industrial Co.,Ltd (Early Light), one of Mattel's contract manufacturing facilities in China,which subcontracted the painting of parts of the toy to another vendor, HongLi Da Plastic Cement Products Facility (HLD), also in China. While thepainting subcontractor, HLD, was required to utilize paint supplied directlyfrom Early Light, it instead violated Mattel's standards and utilized paintfrom a non-authorized third-party supplier. "We have immediately implemented a strengthened three-point check system:First, we're testing paint in every single batch at every single vendor. If itdoesn't pass, it doesn't get used. Second, we have increased randominspections at vendor facilities throughout the production process. Third,we're testing every batch of finished toys to ensure compliance before theyleave our control. We've met with our vendors to ensure they understand ourtightened procedures and our absolute requirement for strict adherence," saidJim Walter, senior vice president of Worldwide Quality Assurance, Mattel. Additionally, Mattel announced the voluntary recall of magnetic toysmanufactured between 2002 and January 31, 2007, including specific dolls,figures, play sets and accessories that may release small, powerful magnets.The recall expands upon Mattel's voluntary recall of eight toys in November2006 and is based on a thorough internal review of all Mattel's brands.18.2 million toys are now being recalled globally (Approximately 890,000 inCanada), however, the majority of the toys are no longer at retail. Beginningin January 2007, Mattel implemented new and enhanced magnet retention systemsin its toys across all brands. "Since our November 2006 magnet-related recall, we have implemented morerobust magnet retention systems and more rigorous testing. We are exercisingcaution and have expanded the list of recalled magnetic toys due to potentialsafety risks associated with toys that might have loose magnets," said Walter. "The safety of children is our primary concern, and we are deeplyapologetic to everyone affected," said Robert A. Eckert, chairman and chiefexecutive officer, Mattel. "Mattel has rigorous procedures, and we willcontinue to be vigilant and unforgiving in enforcing quality and safety. Wedon't want to have recalls, but we don't hesitate to take quick and effectiveaction to correct issues as soon as we've identified them to ensure the safetyof our products and the safety of children." Mattel is working in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product SafetyCommission and other regulatory agencies worldwide. Mattel is also workingwith retailers worldwide to identify and remove affected products from retailshelves. Details of the recall are as follows: Mattel magnetic toys voluntarily recalled in the Canada were sold atretail prior to January 2007. These toys include 53 different Polly Pocket(TM)toys, 11 different Doggie Day Care(R) toys, 1 One Piece(TM) toy, 4 Batman(TM)toys, and the accessory part of 1 Barbie(R) toy. For additional informationregarding the magnetic toy recall, contact Mattel at (888) 597-6597, or visitthe company's Web site at www.service.mattel.com. The Sarge toy from the "CARS" die-cast vehicle line was sold at retailfrom May 2007 through August 2007. For additional information regarding theSarge toy recall, contact Mattel at (800) 916-4997, or visit the company's Website at www.service.mattel.com. A full list of products is published on the company's Web site atwww.mattel.com, as well as by the Consumer Products Safety Commission.Consumers should immediately take these products away from children andcontact Mattel to arrange return and to receive a voucher for a replacementtoy of the consumer's choice, up to the value of the returned product. About Mattel Mattel, Inc., (NYSE: MAT, www.mattel.com) is the worldwide leader in thedesign, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products. The Mattelfamily is comprised of such best-selling brands as Barbie(R), the most popularfashion doll ever introduced, Hot Wheels(R), Matchbox(R), American Girl(R),Radica(R) and Tyco(R) R/C, as well as Fisher-Price(R) brands, including LittlePeople(R), Power Wheels(R) and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toylines. Mattel is recognized as one of the 100 Most Trustworthy U.S. Companiesby Forbes Magazine and is ranked among the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by CROMagazine. Committed to ethical manufacturing practices, Mattel marks a 10-yearmilestone in 2007 for its ever-evolving Global Manufacturing Principles andfocus on sustainable business practices. With global headquarters in ElSegundo, Calif., Mattel employs more than 30,000 people in 43 countries andterritories and sells products in more than 150 nations. Mattel's vision is tobe the world's premier toy brands -- today and tomorrow.

[lynnmm]

happycappy already posted this lol