Child-resistant packaging helps to reduce the chances of a child accessing a drug or chemical.
Child-resistant packaging is not "child proof". They are designed to slow a child down and increase the amount of time it takes for a younger child to open the package.
Types of Child-Resistant Packages
There are two types of child resistant packages: re-closeable and non re-closeable.
Re-closeable packaging involves a container being fitted with a child safety cap which can be re-used to close and secure the bottle. Examples of the child safety caps are the "Palm-n-Turn" or "Clic-Loc" variety which can be found on products such as methylated spirits or dishwasher powders. The caps have to be pushed and turned at the same time to be able to open the bottle. They need to be turned until they click to close them.
Non re-closeable is packaging that cannot be re-sealed or re-closed once it has been opened. It is a 'one-time' only use type of packaging. Examples of non re-closeable packaging can include:
- aluminium foil strip packaging (an example of this packaging is paracetamol tablets)
- opaque/clear laminated plastic blister packaging which generally contains a single tablet/item (an example of this is dishwasher tablets)
General Prevention Advice
- If you have children in your house at any time, ask your Pharmacist to put child safety caps on your medicines when you pick up your prescription. These are not automatically added unless asked.
- Remember that child resistant packages are not "child proof"!
- Child resistant packages need to be used correctly in order to be effective. For example, when putting a safety cap back on, turn it until you hear or feel a click.
- Never leave a lid off a container to make it easier and quicker to use the product. That just makes it easier and quicker for children to get into it.
- Double check after each use that you cannot just pull the lid off before returning the container to it's safe and secure location, out of reach of children.
- Never leave the bottles sitting around in places like on/under the bench or bathroom cabinet, bedside table, or on the laundry floor.