EU Updates Toy Safety Standards: What Manufacturers and Distributors Need to Know
As a toy manufacturer or distributor, it is critical to remain up to date with the latest regulatory changes to ensure compliance and consumer safety. On December 4, 2024, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) released an amendment to the EN 71-3:2019+A2:2024 Toy Safety Standard. This update introduces new testing and migration procedures, underscoring the EU’s commitment to child safety.
Understanding the Key Changes to EN 71-3
The revised standard includes significant updates to testing approaches and migration procedures that aim to improve the safety and quality of toys sold within the European Union. These updates are expected to harmonize under the EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC after being accepted by the European Commission and published in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Updated Testing Approaches
1. Categorization of Slime-Type Materials: The new standard incorporates the CEN/TS 17973:2023 guidelines for categorizing products with slime-like properties.
2. Toy Material Separation: Test portions must now consist of a single toy material unless physically inseparable. Composite testing is prohibited without modifications due to potential inaccuracies.
3. Warning Requirements: Prominent warnings must be displayed before purchase and cannot be buried in general website content.
Revised Migration Procedures
1. De-waxing Procedure Removed: To improve reproducibility, the de-waxing step for materials such as grease and wax has been eliminated.
2. Compliance Presumptions: The total migrated tin and chromium results may now be used to presume compliance with organic tin and chromium (III and VI) requirements.
These updates ensure greater accuracy and safety in the manufacturing and testing of toys.
What Manufacturers and Distributors Should Do
With the standard expected to replace conflicting national standards by June 2025, it is essential for manufacturers and distributors to act promptly to ensure compliance. Here’s what you can do:
• Review Product Lines: Assess your toy inventory for compliance with the new EN 71-3 standards.
• Conduct Testing: Partner with accredited third-party testing providers to verify your products meet the updated requirements.
• Stay Informed: Monitor further developments regarding the harmonization of this standard under the EU Toy Safety Directive.
How QIMA Can Help
At QIMA, we provide expert regulatory support to help businesses navigate complex updates like EN 71-3:2019+A2:2024. Our comprehensive toy safety testing services ensure your products meet EU standards while maintaining consumer trust. Contact us today to learn more.
For the latest updates on toy safety regulations and other compliance standards, visit Toy Testing Laboratory Services.
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