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Child-resistant containers: are we kidding ourselves?
British Medical Journal (Clinical Research Ed.)
|July 25, 1981
Summary
Child-resistant packaging failed when a toddler bit through a polystyrene medicine container. Testing revealed these containers fracture below child bite force, indicating a safety risk.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Pediatric Safety
Background:
- Childhood accidental poisoning is a significant concern.
- Current medicine packaging standards may not adequately protect young children from ingestion hazards.
Observation:
- A 20-month-old child ingested medication by biting through a polystyrene container.
- This incident prompted an investigation into the mechanical integrity of such containers.
Findings:
- Polystyrene containers (25 and 32 ml) fractured at forces significantly lower than the average child's bite force (392 N).
- The British Standards test (35 N) is insufficient to prevent children from accessing medication through container fracture.
Implications:
- Existing polystyrene medicine containers pose a potential risk to young children.
- Packaging standards require re-evaluation to enhance child safety and prevent accidental poisonings.