A safe start to the new school year – the NATCP laboratory has tested plastic pencil cases, pencil and pen tip decorations, and modelling clay

The good news for parents is that all the modelling clay, crayons, plastic pencil and pen toppers, and plastic pencil cases tested in the NATCP's laboratory met the strict product safety standards. In the case of modelling clay and crayons, the experts tested for the presence of certain heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and copper, whilst for PVC-based plastic pencil cases and PVC-based pencil and pen tip decorations, they tested for phthalate content.

During the inspections, the experts paid particular attention to ensuring that products frequently used by children – and in some cases coming into contact with their mouths – did not contain substances harmful to health. This is particularly important in the case of special, chewable pencil and pen tip toppers.

In addition to official inspections, however, consumer awareness is also very important. The NATCP urges parents not to base their decisions on price or appearance alone when choosing school supplies. It is worth considering quality, workmanship and durability, as well as finding out about the range of products available in shops and online stores before making a purchase. Discounted school supplies packs are available in many places, which can make it easier to put together the necessary equipment.

It is a good idea to involve children in the selection process. A pencil case, notebook or other school supplies chosen according to their own taste can make preparing for the start of term more enjoyable. It is always advisable to keep the receipt or proof of purchase. If a quality complaint arises later regarding the purchased product, the receipt can serve as proof of purchase, and with it, the consumer can exercise their warranty rights.

The NATCP considers it of paramount importance that the start of the school year is not just about purchasing the right school supplies, but also about children’s safety. Both official inspections and the promotion of consumer awareness serve to ensure that families are well-prepared and that children can start the new school year with safe and good-quality school supplies.