Recreational Marine Vessel Parts Warning

A tailored safe harbour warning for recreational marine vessel parts is a new warning format added by OEHHA’s December 2024 amendments (effective January 1, 2025), codified at Title 27 CCR §25607.51. This applies to exposures during the purchase, handling, or installation of parts for recreational marine vessels (boats and other pleasure crafts not used for commercial purposes). The required warning text is: ‘WARNING: Handling recreational marine vessel parts can expose you to chemicals such as phthalates and lead, which can cause cancer and reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, service the vessel outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves, and wash your hands. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/marine-vessel-parts.’

Title 27 CCR §25607.51 (added effective January 1, 2025); OEHHA December 2024 Proposition 65 warning amendments.

Marine vessel parts manufacturers, importers, retailers, and marinas must evaluate whether this tailored safe harbour warning applies to their products. This warning specifically addresses phthalates and lead in marine vessel parts. Companies can use this standardised warning without product-specific chemical identification if they have a reasonable basis to believe that parts contain phthalates or lead above safe harbour levels. The tailored warning provides substantial safe harbour protection against enforcement actions compared to custom warnings.