What must packaging for household medications contain according to child safety standards?

• A. Standard caps
• B. Child-resistant caps
• C. Easy-to-open closures
• D. Bottles with no warnings

Answer: (B)

Packaging for household medications is mandated to include child-resistant caps as a critical safety feature to prevent accidental ingestion by young children. This design is integral to protecting children from the potential dangers posed by medications that can be harmful if ingested.

Child-resistant caps are engineered to require a certain level of dexterity and strength to open, making it more difficult for children to access the contents of the bottle. This requirement aligns with regulations created by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States, aimed at enhancing safety standards in the pharmaceutical industry.

The other options do not meet the necessary safety criteria. Standard caps do not offer the same level of protection as child-resistant caps, and easy-to-open closures prioritize convenience over safety, which could lead to increased risks for children. Additionally, bottles with no warnings would lack essential safety information, further compromising child safety. The inclusion of child-resistant caps is a crucial measure in safeguarding children from potential hazards associated with medications.