Environment
Uniroyal Engineered Products is dedicated to manufacturing innovative vinyl-coated fabric products while operating in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.
Disclosures
Some vinyl products may contain chemicals, including PVC, identified by the State of California as a cause of cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm at certain exposure levels. Under the California law known as "Prop 65", certain warnings to consumers in California are required where such products are sold. The presence of such chemicals in vinyl products, even at extremely low concentrations, can lead to disputes over Prop 65 warning obligations that are very difficult to resolve. If your company intends to introduce Uniroyal Engineered Products vinyl products into commerce in California, Uniroyal Engineered Products recommends that you take steps to confirm whether the warning requirements of California's "Prop 65" are applicable to the products in question and whether your company is complying with the warning requirements for the chemicals contained within these products.
What you need to know about Prop 65
Prop 65 is an initiative started in 1986 in California that requires the state to publish a list of chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm, and businesses to notify California consumers if these chemicals are in the products they manufacture or distribute. Businesses could receive a significant fine or face a more serious legal outcome if there is no warning where specified chemicals are included in their products. The updated list currently sets forth about 800 chemicals, can be downloaded using this link. Businesses are encouraged to become familiar with the chemicals found in their products, refer to the list and make an educated decision on whether to place the warning on their products or post it at their place of business.
Other states are looking at Prop 65 and creating their own laws and guidelines based on it. This type of requirement is not going away, but is being applied on a state-by-state basis. Illinois, Washington, Connecticut, and Colorado are all exploring adoption of part or all of California's Prop 65.
It is important that all businesses familiarize themselves with the requirements of Proposition 65. A warning label is only the first recommended defensive strategy and may not be enough to protect your organization from a violation notice and/or fine. It's strongly recommended that your firm consult with a legal professional for guidance.