The Consumer Council on Monday said that some desk mats commonly used as table protectors contain chemicals that can affect fertility or growth. Among 15 desk mats it tested, seven contained four plasticisers listed as reproductive toxicants exceeding a European Union limit. In the worst example, plasticisers in a desk mat by Qivation surpassed the EU limit by 222 times. The product has been referred to the Customs and Excise Department. The council also revealed that nine desk mats contain three other plasticisers that can affect children's livers. Although people are unlikely to absorb plasticisers through their skin, they are at risk if they have a cut, or put on sunscreen or oil-soluble moisturising products after touching the mats, the council said. The watchdog urged the public not to use desk mats as place mats when they eat, and to wash their hands immediately after using them in other circumstances. It also called on manufacturers to offer clear product information for customers.
