Tips For Navigating Consumer Safety Regulations For Children’s Product And Toys
You’ve got this great idea for a product but now you realize you’re drowning in the prospect of toy safety testing. The whole process seems overwhelming and a bit scary. But here’s a guide to get you started on the process. Don’t let the safety rules intimidate you.
Why are there so many regulations? Well, in 2008, there was a big safety scandal that led to the creation of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). The toy industry had to quickly adapt to the new regulations.
Let’s start with an overview of what needs to be tested and why. We’ll get that information from the ASTM F963, which is the U.S. toy safety standard. ASTM International is a nonprofit organization that works with consumer advocates, manufacturers, and regulators to devise a consensus on standards. The organization has worked hard to make a very technical document (the ASTM F963) as user-friendly and readable as possible. Visit their site for the latest information.
The first thing you need to consider before getting your product tested for safety is where you intend to sell it. Safety standards and labeling requirements vary by region, and some plush labeling standards vary by state in the US!
Key areas to pay attention to in regards to toy safety:
• Small parts warnings: Does your children’s product have a small part? If so, make sure it has the appropriate age grading and labeling.
• Appropriate use of magnets: Magnets come in varying strengths. Certain strengths are OK for use in children’s products, and others that are too strong, won’t pass safety testing.
• ISO 9000 and ISO 9001 certifications are a set of international standards based on quality management and quality assurance that were developed to help companies effectively document the quality system elements needed to maintain an efficient quality system. Does your factory meet those standards?
• Europe’s CE EN71 Toys Certification: Selling in the EU? They’ve got their own requirements.
• ASTM F963: This standard covers toys meant for kids under the age of 14 and encompasses a variety of tests to make sure the toy is built correctly, painted with safe materials, and much more.
• Is the lab your factory uses, compliant?
If you’re unsure what all of the points above mean, don’t worry.
The biggest advice from Toy Safety expert, Bill Baxter, is: “Don’t let this (toy safety) scare you.”
And, certainly, don’t let it stop you!
