Which agency is involved in regulating and assessing the safety of consumer goods?

The agency responsible for regulating and assessing the safety of consumer goods is the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This independent agency of the federal government is focused specifically on protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of consumer products. The CPSC monitors the safety of a wide array of products, including toys, electronics, household appliances, and more. It has the authority to set safety standards, conduct research, and enforce compliance, ensuring that consumer goods meet safety regulations before they reach the market.

Understanding the role of the CPSC is crucial, especially in the context of protecting consumers and minimizing hazards associated with everyday products. Other agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), focus on specific areas such as food safety, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection, rather than the broad category of consumer goods. The Bureau of Standards, while it may engage in testing and setting standards, does not have the same enforcement powers and consumer safety focus as the CPSC. This distinction emphasizes why the Consumer Product Safety Commission is the appropriate answer.