This guide provides an overview of special packaging (child-resistant and senior-friendly, commonly referred to as “child resistant packaging” or “CRP”), what types of packaging are available, and which companies manufacture and test packaging. CPSC does not approve, certify, or endorse any specific special packaging, package manufacturer, testing firm, package consultant, or any of their services.
Both the CPSC and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require the use of special packaging with certain products. The CPSC administers the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), and the EPA administers the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Regulations issued under the PPPA and FIFRA require the use of special packaging for many harmful household products. This helps prevent children under the age of five years old from gaining access to those household products that could cause serious illness or injury. More information on pediatric poisoning is available here.
The requirement for special packaging applies to the primary or immediate packaging (i.e., the package with which the regulated substance is in direct contact). Using these special packaging only for secondary packaging, for example to hold multiple, individually wrapped products, would not comply with the PPPA.
The Special Packaging Index contains descriptions and photographs of special packaging and is sortable by ASTM type, manufacturer, or package name/model. Packages are listed strictly based on data supplied by manufacturers and are included here with the permission of those manufacturers. This index is not a comprehensive listing of all special packaging available. In addition, CPSC staff has not certified or verified the manufacturers’ test data on child-resistant or adult-friendly use effectiveness. It is the responsibility of the finished product manufacturer (i.e., the entity placing the regulated substance in the packaging) to select packaging that is suitable for their substance and ensure compliance.
The ASTM D3475 voluntary standard classifies types of special packaging by the type of closure and action needed to open. The general types of packages defined in the standard, and their descriptions, are as follows:
- ASTM Type I Reclosable Packaging Continuous Thread Closure
- ASTM Type II Reclosable Packaging Lug Finish Closure
- ASTM Type III Reclosable Packaging Snap Closure
- ASTM Type IV Unit Non Reclosable Packaging Flexible (Strip/Pouch)
- ASTM Type VII Aerosol Packages
- ASTM Type VIII Non Reclosable Packaging Semi Rigid (Blister)
- ASTM Type IX Dispensers (Not Intended To Be Removed)
- ASTM Type X Box Or Tray Package
- ASTM Type XI Reclosable Packaging Flexible
- ASTM Type XIII Reclosable Packaging Semi Rigid (Blister)
CPSC also maintains lists of special package manufacturers, testing facilities, and consultants.
The information provided here is a joint undertaking of the CPSC and the EPA. A version of this guide is also posted on EPA’s website with EPA’s own index and lists. For questions on FIFRA-regulated substances or requests on additions/corrections to EPA-maintained indexes and lists, contact the EPA at ChildResistantPackaging@epa.gov or by mail to:
Attention: Child Resistant Packaging Team
Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Pesticide Programs (7505P)
Registration Division
1200 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20460
Additions/Corrections
If you would like your product to be included in CPSC’s “Special Packaging Index”, send at least 2 samples of the package (empty), the manufacturer’s permission, and a copy of the PPPA protocol data to:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Compliance and Field Operations
4330 East West Highway, Room 610
Bethesda, MD 20814
Requests for additions or corrections to CPSC’s list of package manufacturers, testing facilities, or consultants should be made to SBO@cpsc.gov.