The Arsenic Rating is based on the occurence and concentration of arsenic in components of a product. Levels below 40 ppm were deemed to be LOW. Products with arsenic between 41 and 100 ppm were assigned a MEDIUM level. Products with levels of arsenic above 100 ppm were assigned a HIGH level of arsenic. Arsenic, depending on the level of exposure, and the form of the arsenic, has been linked to cancer, blood disorders, and damage to fetal development.
Note: The European toy standard (for migration from toys) is 25 ppm. The U.S. voluntary toy standard (ASTM F973-07 for migration from toys) is 25 ppm. On February 10, 2009 the CPSC adopted the ASTM F973-07 limits for arsenic and other metals(view ASTM standard) as a mandatory standard.