We've all used promotional pens before, particularly classic promotional BIC pens and other popular budget ballpoint writing instruments. But have you ever wondered why all these popular pens seem to have holes in their lids? The answer might surprise you.

1. Choose safe, quality ballpoint pens.
2. Prioritise safety and environmental impact.
3. Invest in high-quality promotional products.

Pen Lids and User Safety

Although we'd probably like to deny it, most of us have chewed on the lid (or even tip) of a branded ballpoint pen before. While it's not a particularly great habit to get into (there's dirt and bacteria all over those things!), it is a reality that no matter what is said, people will continue to give lids a bit of a chew habitually. Of particular concern are young children getting ahold of the pen lids and popping them into their mouth. This leads us to the reason why large companies like BIC produce pens with lids on the end of them -- for consumer safety.

Preventing Deaths: Pen Lids' Hole

Pen lids are small objects that, if swallowed, can easily become lodged in the throat. If a pen lid is swallowed and it doesn't have a hole in the end, air can't pass through it. This means that means someone who accidentally swallowed a lid without a hole is more likely to asphyxiate. The International Organization for Standardization has drawn up rules to ensure all safety precautions are taken with pen lids and that they come with a hole on the end, which in the case of being swallowed would allow air to continue to pass through the lid, thus minimising the person's risk of suffocating.

Even Still, Play It Safe!

However just because lids are far less likely to lead to asphyxiation now the world standard is to produce them with holes, it doesn't mean that you should take up chewing pen lids regularly! Removing a smooth, small object from someone's throat is still a difficult task for doctors and can be quite scary and painful for the lid swallower. Our advice? Try avoiding popping pen lids and other small objects into your mouth and keep using your pens for writing and drawing as they were intended!

Safe, Quality Ballpoint Pens Matter

Choosing the right ballpoint pen is essential, especially when it comes to promotional products. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a safe and quality ballpoint pen:

• Check the pen's manufacturing standards: Look for pens that meet international safety standards, such as the ISO 12757-1:2017 standard. This standard ensures that pens are safe to use, free from toxic substances, and have consistent ink flow.
• Check the pen's tip and ink: The pen's tip should be sturdy and not bend easily. The ink should be smooth, consistent, and not smudge easily. Avoid pens with low-quality ink that can leak or dry out quickly.
• Check the pen's design: The pen's design should be comfortable to hold, with a non-slip grip and a balanced weight. Avoid pens with sharp edges or protruding parts that can cause injury.
• Check the pen's lid: As we've discussed earlier, the pen's lid should have a hole in it to prevent choking hazards. Make sure the lid fits snugly and doesn't come off easily.
• Consider eco-friendly options: Look for pens made from sustainable materials, such as recycled plastic or bamboo. These pens are not only safe and high-quality but also environmentally friendly.

Key Lessons

Aussie companies can learn a lot from the importance of choosing safe and quality ballpoint pens. Here are some key takeaways:

• Prioritise safety: Safety should always be a top priority when choosing promotional products. By selecting safe and high-quality ballpoint pens, Aussie companies can ensure that their customers and employees are protected from potential hazards.
• Consider environmental impact: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, Aussie companies should consider eco-friendly options for their promotional products. Choosing pens made from sustainable materials can help reduce waste and promote sustainability.
• Invest in quality: Investing in quality promotional products can have a positive impact on a company's brand image. By choosing high-quality ballpoint pens, Aussie companies can demonstrate their commitment to excellence and provide a positive customer experience.

Takeaway

Summing up, the holes in pen lids serve an important purpose in preventing choking hazards. When choosing ballpoint pens for promotional purposes, it's essential to consider factors such as safety, quality, and environmental impact. By prioritizing these factors, Aussie companies can select promotional products that reflect their brand values and provide a positive customer experience.

Details first spotted here: http://mentalfloss.com/article/545682/surprising-reason-why-pen-caps-have-tiny-holes-top