Computer Accessories California 65 Testing Report
Date:2026-03-20 10:37:46 Classification
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For the export of computer accessories to California, USA, obtaining a California Proposition 65 testing report is a key step towards compliance. Due to the fact that computer accessories typically include plastic casings, metal parts, cables, and electronic components, they are high-frequency target products in California's lawsuit 65.
1、 Report on core testing items
The components of computer accessories are complex, and testing is usually carried out using "material classification". The following are the chemical substances that must be tested for computer accessories:
1. Shell and buttons (made of plastic/rubber material)
Key detection: Phthalate esters
Reason: PVC material or soft rubber buttons are often used as plasticizers.
Common substances: DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP, etc.
Key testing: Lead
Reason: It may exist in plastic pigments, stabilizers, or metal coatings.
2. Cables and connectors (power cord, data cable, HDMI cable)
Key detection: Phthalate esters
Reason: The cable sheath (especially PVC material) is a high-risk area for phthalates and has been the most sued project in California in recent years.
Key testing: Lead
Reason: Metal connectors, solder joints, and copper wire insulation inside cables may contain lead.
3. Metal components (interfaces, heat sinks, screws, internal brackets)
Key testing: lead and cadmium
Reason: Metal alloys may contain lead; Cadmium or hexavalent chromium may be present in surface electroplating or rust prevention treatment.
4. Circuit board and electronic components
Key testing: Lead
Reason: Electronic soldering and chip pin positions may contain lead (although RoHS exempts some lead containing soldering, California 65 has very strict restrictions on lead and usually requires warning labels).
Key testing: flame retardants
Reason: Flame retardants may be added to the substrate of the circuit board.
2、 Testing process
The process of obtaining a California 65 test report usually follows the following steps:
1. Fill out the application form: Submit an application (Dezewei Testing CNAS registration number: L8083) to a third-party testing agency (with CPSC accreditation or ISO 17025 qualification), specifying the product name, model, and material list (BOM table).
2. Sample preparation:
Usually, it is necessary to provide finished product samples.
If the product has multiple colors or materials, samples should be sent separately or different materials should be separated by the laboratory for testing.
3. Test implementation:
The laboratory separates the samples and performs chemical pretreatment and instrument analysis on different materials (such as black shell, red button, metal interface, and wire cover) separately (usually using ICP-MS to detect heavy metals and GC-MS to detect ortho benzene).
4. Issue a report:
After the test is completed, the laboratory issues a formal report containing test data, testing methods, result judgments, and recommendations.
3、 Report result judgment and subsequent operations
After receiving the test report, there will be two processing methods based on the results:
Scenario A: The test result is below the limit (safe harbor level)
Conclusion: The product is compliant and does not require warning labels.
Operation: Keep the test report for future reference and respond to possible market inspections or Amazon audits.
Scenario B: The test result is higher than the limit value
Conclusion: The product contains carcinogenic or reproductive toxic chemicals, and the exposure level exceeds the standard.
Operation: Warning labels must be affixed.
This is the most common compliance method in California. Even if the product contains these substances, as long as it is labeled in compliance, it can still be sold legally.
Label style: typically includes a yellow triangle warning symbol and text description.
Example
> ⚠️ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and DEHP, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
4、 Common problems and precautions
Does the California 65 report have an expiration date?
The report itself does not have a fixed validity period. However, if the California government updates the list of chemical substances (usually updated several times a year) or adjusts the 'Non Significant Risk Level (NSRL)', previous reports may need to be reassessed. In addition, if there are changes in the product process, materials, or suppliers, retesting is required.
What should I do if Amazon requires a California 65 certificate?
Amazon typically requires sellers to provide proof of compliance. If your product passes the inspection, you can directly submit the inspection report; If the product exceeds the standard but you have attached a compliant warning label, you can also submit label images and reports as proof of compliance.
3. Cost and Cycle
Cost: depends on the complexity of the material used in the product. The more materials, the more testing points, and the higher the cost. Generally ranging from several hundred to several thousand Chinese yuan.
Cycle: Usually 5-7 working days.
Can RoHS report replace California 65 report?
No. RoHS is an EU directive, while California 65 is a local regulation in California, USA.
Although both control substances such as lead and cadmium, the limit requirements are different. For example, RoHS has a limit of 1000ppm for lead, while California 65 calculates the limit based on the exposure risk of specific products, often requiring stricter requirements or warnings even if the content is low.
summary suggestions
For computer accessories, cables (PVC casing) and plastic shells are the most risky parts. It is recommended to prioritize screening for phthalates and lead in these two parts. If your product is mainly sold to California, it is important to obtain a testing report before shipment to avoid product removal or significant fines due to litigation or platform audits.