What empowerment did the Poison Prevention Packaging Act provide?

• A. Allowed increased sales of over-the-counter medications
• B. Empowered the Consumer Products Safety Commission to set packaging rules
• C. Established regulations for online pharmacy practices
• D. Created a national drug monitoring program

Answer: (B)

The Poison Prevention Packaging Act was enacted in 1970 to address the safety concerns associated with easily accessible medications and household substances that could pose a risk to children. The act specifically empowered the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish regulations regarding packaging to ensure that substances such as prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and household chemicals are sold in child-resistant packaging. This initiative aimed to prevent accidental poisonings among children, making it critical for public health and safety.

The act led to the implementation of standards that manufacturers must follow when designing and producing packaging for potentially hazardous materials, reinforcing the importance of child-proof packaging in reducing the risk of poisoning incidents. This regulatory power recognizes the role of appropriate packaging in safeguarding vulnerable populations, especially children, from the dangers of unintentional exposure to harmful substances.