SEATTLE -- The U.S. House just approved a ban that could turn toy makers on their ears.

The proposed toxic toy bill targets the Consumer Product Safety Commission, as well as the people who make the toys, and a small business in Bellevue is doing its part to turn up the heat.

One item at a time, Seth Goldberg and his small start-up company are helping families and businesses pinpoint the toxic chemicals lurking in toys and other products. They launched the company last December.

"We've done over 20,000-25,000 different tests," Goldberg said.

They've found high levels of lead and other hazardous chemicals in toys, ceramics, mugs and glasses.

"Unfortunately, nothing really shocks me anymore," he said.

Goldberg says he’s tested products for retailers, local businesses and individual consumers, as well as offering tests at community events. And already, ESSCO Safety Check is making a difference.

This month, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a nationwide recall after Safety Check notified regulators about what they discovered last May.

Children's jewelry by Bead Bazaar -- called "It's a Girl Thing". (www.cpsc.gov). They are beaded bracelets, necklaces and cell phone charms with excessive levels of lead. If you have one, return it for a refund.

"I was shocked to get an e-mail from the CPSC saying that we helped, and 'Thank You.' Plus they were looking at all the information that we provided them about the other items," Goldberg said.

Now Congress is moving to make a difference with new legislation that bans lead in all products for kids 12 and under.

The bill includes a possible ban on plastic softeners called phthalates, linked to reproductive problems in children.

The proposed legislation also gives the CPSC more muscle to regulate the industry with stricter testing rules, and mandatory third-party testing, before toys are shipped to market.

"I don't think the problem's going away," said Goldberg.

As the uncle of a young toddler, Goldberg sees the bill as another step toward toys parents can trust without having to pay a business like his to be sure.

"If we didn't have to do testing, we would know things were safer and that's the ultimate goal," Goldberg said.

The proposed federal legislation follows similar laws passed in several other states including this one. The Washington state law restricting lead, phthalates and cadmium in toys takes effect next July.

The federal bill now in the Senate is expected to be approved in September, after the August recess.

For More Information -- www.essco-safetycheck.com