Firestone tires, Toyota hybrids, Iowa farm eggs – a globalized economy means that flawed products can be distributed to every corner of the world, and fast. But globalized communications technology means information about potential problems can be disseminated even faster.
So if you want to avoid personal injury and years of litigation, make checking product recall lists easier by downloading the follow iPhone apps.
U.S. CPSIA (free)
Start your product safety search with the U.S. CPSIA app (free). It contains the complete text of the U.S Consumer Production Safety Improvement Act, which was passed in 2008 to protect consumers. You can search the bill by section, or read it in long form. It also includes a list of accredited testing laboratories used to review all consumer products.
FDA Recalls (free)
The FDA Recalls app (free) lists all Food and Drug Administration food product recalls in chronological order, newest to oldest. Each recall listed includes a brief description, and a link to the FDA website for a more thorough explanation. It also allows users to bookmark items, as well as share them with others via email.
CPSC Recalls (free)
The CPSC Recalls app (free), which provides recall information from the Consumer Products Safety Commission, is structure exactly like the FDA Recalls app. Recently recalled products include a baby stroller with a faulty safety latch and a bunk bed with an entrapment hazard.
Whistler (99 cents)
While first-hand sources are typically the best option, navigating the web of government websites (and apps) can be confusing. The Whistler app (99 cents) cuts through all the superfluous verbiage and organizes critical information neatly. What’s more, you can sign up to receive e-mail alerts about specific product categories.
EU Recalls (free)
If you are living, or have gone shopping, in Europe, you might want to download the free EU Recalls iPhone app. It allows you to search via subcategories, including country and by date. Lists of recalled products can be scrolled through with a quick swipe of the finger.
Toy Hazard Recalls ($1.99)
And if you are a worrisome parent concerned about the safety of your children’s toys, take a look at the Toy Hazard Recalls app ($1.99). It allows you to bypass the products that don’t apply to you, and review directly what little Johnny is chewing on.
