MONDAY, JUL 22, 2013 02:56:40
As of 20 July, new chemical requirements for toys will enter into force for the European Union (EU) market.
The rules are actually not new, but previously enshrined in the toy safety directive published in 2009. Its general provisions are already applicable to toys placed on the market since July 2011.
Member states were, however, given an additional 2-year transition period to comply with the provisions on chemical requirements.
According to them, substances which are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction as well as 55 allergenic fragrances will be banned from use in toys. Additionally, labeling will be required for 11 potential allergens and strict limits will be applied for 19 so-called “heavy elements” (such as lead or barium).
“Toy safety and protection of children’s health is one of the Commission’s highest priorities,” says Vice President Antonio Tajani and promises that the EC will continue to follow up scientific developments to ensure that chemical requirements for toys are swiftly adapted to scientific progress.
Currently, the union of 28 has ones of the strictest requirements in the world when it comes to toys for children. They provide a quite broad definition, stipulating that a toy is any product or material designed or intended whether or not exclusively for use in play by children under 14 years of age.
The chemical provisions which were applicable until now already included a large safety margin and required that only safe toys were be placed on the market. However, the Commission believes that the new requirements to enter into force tomorrow will further strengthen the high level of protection of children’s safety in the EU. europe on line
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