The challenge of sharing informationObstacles and co-operation mechanisms in the field of product safety

Peter AveryHead of the Consumer Policy Unit

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

(Peter.Avery@oecd.org)

WTO, 9 November 2011, Geneva

OECD work on product safety

Background

Summer of recalls -- 2007

Work stream launched -- 2008

Working Party on Consumer Product Safety established – 2010 Promote information exchange Support research on product safety issues Monitor and assess policy and regulatory developments Promote co-operation with non-members Promote harmonisation of product safety requirements and information

collection

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OECD work on product safety

Work programmeShort term

Pool information on recalls and emergency alerts Mechanisms to co-ordinate initiatives more effectively Support regional and global fora: i) increase understanding of differences among

jurisdictions; ii) promote harmonisation of standards; iii) flag emerging issues

Medium term Web access to studies of hazards Web access to updates on regulatory activities Directory of safety experts

Longer term Injury data Pooled information on product hazards Confidentiality protocol Co-operation on traceability

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OECD work on product safety

Opportunities, challenges and obstaclesOpportunities

Governments more open to sharing information Strong interest of non-members Cost effectiveness

Principal challenges and obstacles Avoiding duplication Cost and technical challenges of developing web platforms Agreed taxonomies Language Maintaining vitality and relevance of platforms Mechanisms to engage non-members Funding

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For further information on the OECD work on consumer product safety, please contact Ewelina.Marek@oecd.org

www.oecd.org/sti/consumer-policy/productsafety