Consumer Product Instructions and Warning Statements

Summary

This practice note describes how to draft effective and compliant instructions and warning labels for consumer products sold in the U.S. and regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Consumer product defects, hazards, and misuse can often lead to sizable product liability claims, recalls, and civil penalties. These problems can be resolved or, at the very least, mitigated through effective warnings and instructions. This note outlines the requirements for product instructions and warning labels and discusses product liability risks and ways to identify potential product hazards.