Chemistry sets and crystal kits: reading the labels
What federal labeling rules call for, and why the cautions come first.
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Two kit types
A chemistry set holds chemicals and equipment for experiments. A crystal growing kit holds materials for growing crystals. Either may be sold as a science education set. We do not list chemicals or give experiment steps.
What the labeling rule calls for
Under 16 CFR 1500.83(a)(23), federal labeling rules for chemistry sets and other science education sets intended primarily for juveniles call for each hazardous chemical's container to carry the chemical's name, a signal word, and the statement "Read back panel before using." They call for a caution statement in a box on the manual and the outer carton that ends "Not to be used by children except under adult supervision."
Why the rule allows these kits
16 CFR 1500.3 describes articles "such as chemistry sets" that "bear labeling giving adequate directions and warnings for safe use and are intended for use by children who have attained sufficient maturity, and may reasonably be expected, to read and heed such directions and warnings." Under 16 CFR 1500.85(a)(1), sets labeled under 1500.83(a)(23) are not classed as banned hazardous substances.
Before a child uses one
Read every caution, label, and instruction that comes with the kit, follow its adult supervision statement, and use the protective equipment the maker names. Keep chemicals in their original containers and out of reach of young children.
If something goes wrong
If you think a child swallowed or touched a kit chemical, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. HRSA says "Poison Help is available 24/7 in over 100 languages." In an emergency, call 911.
This is general information, not legal advice.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 1500, Hazardous Substances and Articles (1500.3, 1500.19, 1500.20, 1500.83, 1500.85); HRSA, Poison Help; CPSC, Recalls & Product Safety Warnings.
FAQ
General information only, for adults choosing toys for children. We do not test, certify, or rate any product, and we do not say any toy or kit is safe or right for a particular child or age. Before you buy or use one, read the maker's age grade, warnings, and instructions, follow any adult supervision directions, and check for recalls at cpsc.gov/Recalls. Keep small parts, magnets, button and coin batteries, and kit chemicals away from young children. A swallowed magnet, button battery, or coin battery needs medical help right away; do not delay. If you think a child swallowed or touched something harmful, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: storing kits
Parts and chemicals, put away.
