Group detects lead in kids' backpacks

TOXIC and waste watchdog organization Ban Toxics on Saturday sounded the alarm after discovering "brain-damaging" lead in children's backpacks, amid preparations for the start of the new school year.In a statement, Ban Toxics said that colorful bags are sold in bargain stores and sidewalks along streets in Divisoria, Manila. The group used an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, screened the bag samples from the designs to the zippers and detected toxic lead levels up to 11,900 parts per million (ppm).Therese Carmela Diaz, a "patroller" of the group, said that none of the inspected bags had proper labeling."It is alarming to discover that, until now, we still find the presence of toxic chemicals in some children's products, such as school supplies, despite existing regulations in the country," Ban Toxics campaigner Thony Dizon said.According to the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources' Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds, using lead in producing and selling school supplies is strictly prohibited.Also, the World Health Organization said that exposure could have "serious consequences" for children's health, which could lead to damage to the brain and central nervous system, which could cause comatose, convulsions, and even death.

Tomas Kauer - Moderator Tomas Kauer - Moderator
Jul 8, 2024 - 01:06
Group detects lead in kids' backpacks

TOXIC and waste watchdog organization Ban Toxics on Saturday sounded the alarm after discovering "brain-damaging" lead in children's backpacks, amid preparations for the start of the new school year.

In a statement, Ban Toxics said that colorful bags are sold in bargain stores and sidewalks along streets in Divisoria, Manila.

Parents start shopping for school supplies and uniforms for their students at Ilaya, Divisoria in Manila on July 6, 2024, but according to vendors, their sales are still relatively low and sluggish at the moment. They hope that in the next few days there will be an influx of pre-school shoppers. Meanwhile in Las Piñas City, tailor Mario Casabuena, 64, prepares pre-ordered public school uniforms at his stall, Althea Anne Tailoring. Classes will officially start on July 29, 2024. PHOTO BY RENE H. DILAN AND MIKE ALQUINTO

The group used an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, screened the bag samples from the designs to the zippers and detected toxic lead levels up to 11,900 parts per million (ppm).

Therese Carmela Diaz, a "patroller" of the group, said that none of the inspected bags had proper labeling.

"It is alarming to discover that, until now, we still find the presence of toxic chemicals in some children's products, such as school supplies, despite existing regulations in the country," Ban Toxics campaigner Thony Dizon said.

According to the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources' Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds, using lead in producing and selling school supplies is strictly prohibited.

Also, the World Health Organization said that exposure could have "serious consequences" for children's health, which could lead to damage to the brain and central nervous system, which could cause comatose, convulsions, and even death.

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