USA - Washington Sets to Implement Prohibition on Cookware Containing Lead

Beginning January 1, 2026, the State of Washington is set to implement HB 1551 - Reducing lead in cookware.

This bill specifies that manufacturers may not manufacture, distribute, or sell or offer for sale cookware or cookware components containing lead or lead compounds at a level exceeding 5 parts per million (ppm).

The legislation defines cookware and components as follows:

• "Component" includes separate or distinct parts of the cookware including, but not limited to, accessories such as lids, knobs, handles and handle assemblies, rivets, fasteners, valves, and vent pipes.
• "Cookware" means any metal pots, pans, bakeware, rice cookers, pressure cookers, and other containers and devices intended for the preparation or storage of food.

The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued Lead in Cookware Guidance for Manufacturers and Sellers to help manufacturers in complying with Chapter 70A.565 RCW Cookware Containing Lead (HB 1551).

This focus sheet explains the new law, what it means for manufacturers and sellers, and how to find more information. This sheet answers the following questions:

• Why did the legislature adopt this new law?
• Where can I read the law?
• Who is covered by this new law?
• What is covered by this new law?
• How do businesses prove they are complying with the new law?
• Ecology’s compliance focus.
• Concerned about compliance?

It is important to note that the guidance states: “The lead restriction extends to cookware and components composed of any material, not just metal. For example, a metal knife with a silicone hand grip cannot have lead exceeding five parts per million in either the blade or the handle.”

To be compliant with Washington's Lead in Cookware police businesses must determine if their cookware and cookware components contain lead above 5 mg/kg.

UL Solutions global chemical laboratories conduct testing for the chemicals listed within the Proposition 65 regulation in products and raw materials. Contact us to continue bringing compliant articles in your target markets.

Sources

Focus on: Lead in Cookware Guidance for Manufacturers and Sellers

HB 1551 - 2023-24