It has recently been reported in the news that a number of children in the UK have fallen ill after playing with magnetic putty with some requiring hospital treatment. Parents of one of the children affected have stated that they are currently seeking legal action on their daughter’s behalf for the unsafe levels of the chemical in her system.
The symptoms the children have been experiencing appear to relate to one particular brand of putty and retailers who sell the product have now removed it from sale.
It has been found that a magnet which was included in the toy, contained twice the amount of lead permitted, and the magnetic force was discovered to be 29 times over the allowed limit.
Magnetic putty like any other putty can be stretched, moulded, bounced and torn. However, the difference with magnetic putty is that it will become magnetic when iron oxide particles are put into it.
Arsenic can be found in a number of minerals and was found in elevated levels in the iron oxide in this particular brand.
Arsenic poisoning can occur when a person ingests too much arsenic and if the exposure takes place over a brief period of time, symptoms can be vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Over a long period of exposure, symptoms can include thickening of the skin, abdominal pain, heart disease, numbness and cancer.
Who can claim?
If you, or anyone you know has experienced issues relating to the use of a defective or faulty product, it may be possible to make a claim against the manufacturers under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. Parents may be able to claim on behalf of their children and it may also be possible to raise a group action.
It’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible and our specialist solicitors are able to provide support and advice relating to product liability claims.
