Which of the following statements about general product safety compliance is true?

• A. Only manufacturers bear responsibility for safety.
• B. A duty placed on all suppliers to ensure products are safe under normal use and instructions.
• C. Safety standards are optional.
• D. Supply chain safety is the consumer's responsibility.

Answer: (B)

Safety responsibility stretches along the entire supply chain, not just to the original maker. The important idea is that every supplier, distributor, and retailer has a duty to help ensure products are safe when used as intended and in accordance with the provided instructions. This means considering hazards, providing clear labeling and warnings, and taking action if a product turns out to be unsafe, such as initiating recalls. Safety standards exist to establish minimum requirements and are not optional; compliance with them is typically legally required. Consumers rely on the chain to deliver safe products, but the duties to ensure safety lie with those who place or handle the products in the market. So the true statement is that a duty is placed on all suppliers to ensure products are safe under normal use and instructions.