UK toy suppliers are all regulated under the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011, which means that all toys sold must carry the CE safety mark. This safety mark is your guarantee that the item you are purchasing is safe and meets the requirements for the sale of toys in the UK and the European Union.
If the products you like don’t display the CE mark, it’s a good idea to look for similar ones that do. The last thing you want to do is buy a toy from an unscrupulous seller that could be potentially dangerous and harmful to your children. Unfortunately the market is saturated with these kinds of types and many of them can be found on well known auction sites, most of the time being sold directly from China. Don’t trust them! Buy from reputable UK sellers who can guarantee their products have been tested and comply with regulations.
About toy safety and EN71
Many standards apply to toy safety, and any electrical toy must also meet electrical safety standards. EN71 toy standards have been applied throughout the EU since 1990.
These standards cover toys for children up to 14 years of age and will provide guidance on the appropriate age ranges for toys and any essential warnings for toys that are not suitable for children under three years of age. Some aspects of this legislation include toxicity, flammability and safety markings.
Toy manufacturers that do not meet these essential criteria could be guilty of criminal offenses and fines or imprisonment, while the toys will be withdrawn from sale throughout the EU.
Some toys are excluded from this legislation and these include:
– Christmas decorations
– Children’s jewelery
– Toys and sports equipment.
However, even toys that are excluded must still meet all the requirements of UK consumer safety laws such as the Consumer Protection Act. Some of these essential testing requirements include:
– Flammability
– Electrical components and properties
– Any chemical property
– Hygiene compliance
What to do if you think a toy is unsafe
If you have purchased a children’s toy that you believe violates toy safety laws or has caused injury to your child, you may contact the Trade Standards Office to report your concerns. They will carry out tests on the toy and will be able to manage its immediate withdrawal from sale, if necessary.