When it comes to ensuring product safety, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals, chemicals and consumer goods, child-resistant closures (CR Closures or CRCs) play a critical role. This guide explores what CRCs are, when you need them and how to choose the right option to meet both safety regulations and product integrity.
What is CR Packaging?
CR Packaging is designed to protect young children from accessing harmful substances, such as medications, chemicals and other potentially dangerous products. This packaging, which includes CRCs, is required by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The CPSC enforces the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), which mandates that certain hazardous products, especially in the household and pharmaceutical sectors, be sold in child-resistant packaging. The purpose is simple: to prevent the accidental ingestion or handling of harmful substances by children.
Many products, from over-the-counter medications to household chemicals and pesticides, must be sealed with CRCs to meet these requirements. The closures are designed to be difficult for children under five years old to open, while remaining user-friendly for adults.
Ribbed Argus-Loc Closure with Text
When Do You Need Child-Resistant Packaging?
Child-resistant closures are not just a safety measure but also a regulatory necessity. The CPSC and EPA require special packaging for certain hazardous substances. These include:
- Household chemicals (e.g., furniture polish, cleaners)
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Pesticides (regulated under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, or FIFRA)
These products must meet specific regulations set out by the PPPA and FIFRA to protect children from serious injury or poisoning. For example, substances like aspirin, mouthwash and dietary supplements containing iron must be in CR packaging in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations. To determine whether your product falls under these regulations, it’s essential to consult the relevant guidelines.
Ensuring Product Integrity with CR Packaging
Product integrity is an important factor when selecting CRCs, especially in industries like pesticides. Under the FIFRA, products that trigger CR Closures toxicity criteria must meet stringent standards for compatibility and durability.
Simp-Loc Squeeze’n Turn
Key Considerations:
- Compatibility – Ensure the chemical properties of the product do not compromise the correct functioning of the child-resistant packaging and that the CR components maintain their effectiveness over time.
- Durability – The packaging should withstand frequent use for the expected product lifetime while maintaining its child-resistant features. For example, packaging designed for pesticides should endure the usual wear and tear without compromising safety.
- Voluntary Use – Some products may not be legally required to have child-resistant packaging but can still opt for it voluntarily. If this is the case, it must still meet all necessary standards.
These considerations ensure that your product remains both safe and effective for its entire lifecycle.
Ribbed Clic-Loc Closure with Text
Types of CR Closures
Choosing the proper CR closure depends on your product’s requirements. There are several types of CRCs, each with unique features that cater to different industries.
1. Push Down & Turn Closures: These are one of the most common types of CRCs used in products like medications and personal care items. These closures are easy for adults to use but difficult for children to open.
2. Squeeze & Turn Closures: Typically used for liquid products like dishwasher detergents, these closures require users to squeeze before turning, adding an additional layer of difficulty for children.
Child Resistant Squeeze & Turn
3. Trigger Sprayers: CRC trigger sprayers, like a certified US 16 CFR § 1700.20 CR sprayer, are designed to prevent spills while providing enhanced child-resistant features. These sprayers often come with lock caps and on/off nozzles for added security.
To help you choose the right CRC for your product, we offer a range of options, from ribbed Clic-Loc closures to smooth pictorial closures and more. Each option can be customized with your choice of text or pictorial instructions for ease of use.
MJS Packaging Sleek CR
Picking The Right CR Closure
In summary, selecting the right CR closures is crucial for ensuring compliance with regulations, protecting children and maintaining product integrity. At MJS Packaging, we offer a wide range of child-resistant closures and packaging solutions tailored to each industries’ specific needs. From color options and barrier protection to custom designs and enhanced digital packaging, we can help find the perfect solution for your product.
Ready to start? Shop our range of Child-Resistant closures or Start a Project with us to find the best solution for your packaging needs.
