The Consumer Product Safety Database: Frequently Asked Questions

In March 2011, consumers, governmental agencies, and others will be able to submit reports of harm involving consumer products to a public database created by the Consumer Product Safety Commission ("CPSC"). Manufacturers and private labelers will receive copies of these reports and have an opportunity to comment on them and have those comments published on the database along with the report of harm. The database, located at www.saferproducts.gov, will allow the public to search for and review reports on consumer products, as well as the comments that manufacturers or private labelers provide in response to those reports. The CPSC will also use this data to assist in identifying potential product hazards or safety concerns. As the CPSC prepares for implementation of this database, manufacturers and private labelers should understand how it works and prepare accordingly. Below are some common questions and answers about the database.