Even as manufacturers navigate new production processes, supply chains and regulatory frameworks, the Consumer Product Safety Commission is finding its own  way through a turbulent environment.

To begin, it seems likely that Dr. Nancy Beck will not be confirmed to head the CPSC. Until we see another appointee, consumer product companies need to operate on a mindset that the agency will maintain its current trajectory under the direction of Acting Chairman Robert Adler, who has been expected to take the agency down a more aggressive approach to product safety. But that requires adequate staff.