Document 6wq90Oq0Y0rzVw9OmB4Ey6n79

Amer ica n St a n d a r d s A sso c ia t io n INCORPORATED 70 East F o r ty - fifth Street N e w Y o rk 17, N . Y. Se c t io n a l Co mmit t e e Co r r e s p o n d e n c e Dr. Robert A. Kehoe The Kettering Laboratory University of Cincinnati College of Medicine Eden Avenue Cincinnati 19, Ohio ADDRESS REPLY TO One Madison Avenue New York 10, N. Y. June 6, 1958 Dear Dr. Kehoe: Thank you very much for sending me so promptly a copy of your study of "The Occurrence and Significance of Lead in the Paint Used on Toys." I expect you are familiar with the Z66.1 standard of the A.S.A. established for paint to be used on toys, furniture, and interior surfaces which may be chewed by children. It is our objective to secure the cooperation of toy manufacturers in adhering to this standard. I understand that paint manufacturers are finding no difficulty in meeting this standard in producing paint for the above-mentioned purposes. In connection with the recommendations appearing in your report. I am glad to say that steps are being taken to meet with the National Retail Drygoods Association to clarify some misconceptions which some of them have about "lead free" paints. It appears that some of them are seeking this type of paint rather than paint which conforms to the Z66.1 standard. As a practical problem in paint manufacturing, I understand that it is most difficult to produce a paint absolutely free of lead. Lead driers are desirable in paints which do not contain lead as a basic component. I also understand that lead appears as a contaminant or an impurity in many pigments and specifically in titanium dioxide. We also think it is desirable to let the Z66 specification be followed since it would rule out the use of mercury pigments and possibly certain other colorants which might be more dangerous than lead. The toy manufacturers appear to be quite understanding about this problem but we must do more education with the Retail Drygoods people. ' Kindest personal regards. Sincerely yours, P 4 jl. h & a i C u ^ . George M. Wheatley, M.D. Chairman Committee on Hazards to Children