Why is there a warning label on Protec products?

If you spend much time in California, you’re probably getting used to seeing warning signs about Proposition 65. They’re on display at restaurants, banks, gas stations, grocery stores, even Disneyland. But why is there a proposition 65 warning on Protec products? We are providing Prop 65 warning labels on our products out of an abundance of caution to comply with California Prop 65. We have tested our products and have ensured that they meet or exceed Prop 65 requirements for all elements that we know to have a high likelihood of existing in the products we sell, specifically, Di-n-butyl (DBP”), butyl benzyl phthalate (“BBP”) and di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (“DEHP”). However, the list for potentially hazardous chemicals under California Prop 65 is not static and currently lists over 900 chemicals. Our label exists to protect us as we cannot test all products for a variable list of over 900 chemicals.

What is California Proposition 65?

In 1986, California voters approved the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act (known as “Proposition 65”). Proposition 65 is a “Right to Know” statute; its initial purpose was to make sure people are aware, before they purchase, that the product they come into contact with contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. While the initial intentions were good, the State of California has listed over 900 chemicals that must be disclosed under Prop 65 of which many have been determined to be safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority.

Why is this label included on my Protec product if I don’t live in California?

Protec products are sold worldwide. It would be considerably complex to determine which products will be ultimately sold or brought into California. Therefore, to ensure compliance with Proposition 65 requirements, we have decided to include these labels on a broad range of products, regardless of where they might be purchased or sold and unfortunately, regardless of whether or not they actually contain any chemicals that are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm.

Where can I find out more information about Proposition 65?

The State of California provides Proposition 65 information on the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment website (https://oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65/about-proposition-65).