In this episode of Promo Insiders, Sara Lavenduski, senior editor of Advantages magazine, speaks with product safety and compliance expert Larry Whitney, managing partner of Whitney & Whitney Consulting Group, about what promo firms need to know when selling face masks and coverings. Since the products come in contact with the mouth and nose as well as sensitive skin on the face, it’s important to work with trusted manufacturers and make sure purchased products are tested and labeled.

Podcast Chapters:
0:50 “Due diligence” when sourcing masks
2:52 What to be aware of when sourcing direct
4:32 Looking at indemnification clauses
5:45 Including test reports and use instructions
6:54 What should disclaimers say?
7:53 Sock manufacturer’s masks recalled
10:30 Labeling requirements, by law
11:36 Who should promo firms consult about their liability?

With the majority of promo firms now selling PPE to clients, it’s important that they’re aware of product safety best practices when sourcing and selling it to end-buyers for general use, especially masks and coverings that come in contact with the face.

Larry Whitney, managing partner of Whitney & Whitney Consulting Group

“They are apparel, you’re wearing them,” says Whitney. “So companies should think of them in terms of the apparel requirements. Make sure that the dyes, chemicals and fabrics they’re using are good for the skin.” Whitney adds that they should meet CDC guidelines so they’re actually helping to mitigate spread of the virus.

With important documentation for the masks, such as test reports and proper use instructions, Whitney recommends making sure each piece as its own set of paperwork. “It’s the recipient who needs to know how to use the mask,” he explains. “They need to understand how to put the mask on, is it washable, and that it’s not an N95 or medical mask. So those instructions need to be conveyed to the recipients of the masks themselves. It’s not enough to put one copy in a box and expect that the customer is going to pass them on.”

If the masks are imported, make sure they have proper labeling inside, including a country of origin marking, fabric content, care instructions, and the name of the importer or an RN number from the Federal Trade Commission.

Speak with a lawyer or their business insurance agent if there are compliance and liability concerns, says Whitney. “This is an ideal area for you to lean on your insurance company and ask them what they recommend, so you can get a comfort level for whether this is something you want to do long-term or not.”