Which federal agency is primarily responsible for consumer product safety?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is the primary federal agency responsible for ensuring the safety of consumer products. Established in 1972, the CPSC's mission is to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products, such as toys, electronics, and household appliances. The agency has the authority to enforce product safety standards, initiate recalls of unsafe products, and conduct research on potential hazards. By doing so, it works to prevent injuries and deaths related to consumer products, making it a critical entity in safeguarding consumer rights and health.

In contrast, other agencies have different focuses. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) primarily deals with protecting consumers in the marketplace by preventing unfair or deceptive business practices, while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food safety, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulation of pollutants rather than direct consumer product safety. Each agency has its domain, but the CPSC is specifically dedicated to the safety of consumer products.