In an era where the production and distribution of toys has become globalized, with approximately 65% of these products manufactured in Asia, the European Union (EU) stands out in its regulations about toys by his strict regulation to ensure the safety of the toys intended for children under the age of fourteen years.
The Directive on Toy Safety in the EU (2009/48/EC) establishes specific requirements for physical properties, flammability, chemical properties, electrical properties, hygiene and radioactivity. This policy is not only essential for the security of the youngest, but it also impacts on the overall dynamics of the market of toys.
In the current scenario, the manufacture and distribution of toys do not know borders. With an impressive 65% of the toys produced in Asia, manufacturers and retailers are constantly seeking to optimize cost and efficiency, to establish connections with global suppliers. This practice, although economic, highlights the importance of regulatory robust and global reach to ensure the quality and safety of toys.
Safety Regulations about Toys of the EU
The backbone of the regulation in the EU is the Directive on the Safety of Toys (2009/48/EC). This policy addresses a wide range of aspects, from physical and mechanical properties up to flammability, chemical properties, electrical, hygiene and radioactivity. Toy safety is a priority for the manufacturers and distributors that seek to comply with the rigorous requirements set out in Annex II to this directive.
The Directive on the Safety of Toys is not just sets strict standards, but it is also mandatory for all the toys imported and sold in the EU. The CE marking, which indicates compliance with this policy and other applicable regulations, it becomes a distinctive crucial for legal access to the EU member states. The safety of children thus becomes a central element of the production, and marketing of toys.
Regulations about Toys in constant evolution
The field of the safety of toys continues to evolve, as evidenced by the recent amendment to the Annex II of the Royal Decree 1205/2011, 26 August, on the safety of toys. This update, made through the use of the PCM/1048/2022, sets specific limits for aniline in toys textile, leather paint and fingers. The aniline, classified as a carcinogen and mutagen, has been the object of attention on the part of experts on the safety of toys and regulatory bodies.
Also the Royal Decree 1205/2011 features of the Directive 2009/48/EC, setting out requirements on chemical substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction. Expert recommendations on the restriction of aniline in toys and their components underscore the importance of continuous risk assessment. The role of the Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks and the Group of Experts on Safety of Toys reflects a continued commitment to children's health and the safety of the product.
Laboratory tests for the toys
The marketing of toys in the EU goes beyond complying with the Directive 2009/48/EC. Manufacturers should consider further regulations, such as en-71, which deals with specific aspects of the safety of toys. The technical documentation, testing, and CE marking are fundamental to compliance and the successful commercialization. Roles and obligations of manufacturers, importers, and distributors are key to maintaining the integrity of the process, from the production until the arrival to the final consumers.
The final consumer, in this case, the parents and caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of toys. Beyond the CE marking, the general warnings, as the signs of age and supervision, are essential to an informed choice. The complaint to the authorities of consumption suspicions of non-compliance or safety issues provides an additional mechanism to protect consumers.
Toys and marketers of private brand
In the boom of e-commerce and marketplaces such as Amazon, it is possible that you have come to this article looking for information about a product you want to market under your own brand. If this is your case, you've acquired the responsibilities that the rules attributed to the manufacturers and it is very important that you know all the aspects and actions you need to carry out, to perform your import according to the rules.
In accordance with the Directive on the Safety of Toys of the European Union, manufacturers have the responsibility to perform tests and evaluations to ensure that their products comply with the stringent safety requirements, to make the technical file that includes the declaration of conformity, as well as, the marked required. All of this includes checking aspects such as physical and mechanical properties, flammability, chemical properties, electrical properties, hygiene and radioactivity.
In addition, they must fully document the conformity of its products and to make sure that toys bearing the CE marking, a manufacturer's declaration that the product complies with all applicable requirements. The technical documentation and the availability of information on request are also obligations that are crucial to the manufacturers, thus contributing to the transparency and safety of the toy market.
We have professionals for your CE marking for toys
Ensure that toys comply with the regulations of safety is a shared responsibility between manufacturers, regulators and, of course, the consumers. In this sense, to have the experience of professionals in counseling and regulatory compliance becomes essential. In Together Comply, we understand the importance of child safety, putting at your disposal our experience, so that you can import your product with total safety and in compliance with the regulations.
If you have any questions regarding regulatory compliance in toys or in any regard, please contact us and we will be happy to help you.
