AC power cords
By Sillychick
@Sillychick (3275)
United States
May 10, 2008 7:33am CST
Lately I have noticed with new appliances there is a warning that touching the power cord will expose you to lead. Is this a new thing, or are they just now telling us about it? It does not say anything about the levels. I am concerned about having these things in my home. It could expose my son to lead. But I don't really have a choice, it's on pretty much everything from TV to cell phone chargers. How serious do you think this is? Is it minimal, and they just want to cover their butts?
2 responses
@luvstochat (6907)
• United States
10 May 08
I think they have said this for a long time. If you ever read the warning on the Chrismas tree lights at Christmas they twll you to wash your hands after handing as there is something on it that can casue cancer. I don't think very many people wash their hands after handing them though.
@peavey (16936)
• United States
10 May 08
I haven't heard of any legislation requiring it, but there might be some... otherwise, they're just trying to cover their rear ends. According to Consumer Reports, "Lead is often added to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic--which coats electrical cords, wire, and cable--to make it more durable and heat-resistant. Research has found that some lead may come to the surface and stick to skin as the cord is handled."
Adding lead to the plastic coating is nothing new, although the awareness of it is. As our environmental cops look more and more closely at the things we use on a daily basis, they're finding more and dangers.



