Data SystemsThe Directorate for Epidemiology has a complementary mix of systems that collect data about consumer products and all injuries. CPSC bases its recommendations on the information collected through these systems. Without good data systems, CPSC would not be able to make accurate assessments about potentially dangerous products. CPSC uses several means to collect data on consumer goods. Product-related death information is received from hospitals and coroners through the Medical Examiners and Coroners Alert Project (MECAP), Death Certificates, and NEISS. To ensure that all avenues are examined CPSC also receives information from the general public through the hotline, web site reporting, and news clips. Through analysis and investigation based on information collected with these systems, CPSC can identify problem products. They can then take action to potentially prevent injuries and deaths from these consumer products.
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