Directive 2009/48/EC on the safety of toys

Summary

Toy Safety Directive laying down the essential safety requirements (physical/mechanical, flammability, chemical, electrical, hygiene, radioactivity) for toys placed on the EU market; chemical requirements applicable since 20 July 2013.

Scope

Scope (Art. 2(1)): Applies to products designed or intended, whether or not exclusively, for use in play by children under 14 years of age (toys). Not regarded as toys (Art. 2(2) and Annex I), including but not limited to: festive/decoration items; products for collectors; sports equipment; bicycles with saddle height >85 cm; scooters or other means of transport designed for sport or travel on public roads/paths; electric mobility devices (e.g. e-scooters, hoverboards); video game consoles and peripherals; fireworks; darts with metal points; functional educational products used under adult supervision in schools; electronic equipment (e.g. personal computers, keyboards, mice).

Obligations for the manufacturer

• ▸ Ensure toys meet essential safety requirements before placing on the market
• ▸ Carry out conformity assessment (self-verification or EC-type examination via notified body)
• ▸ Affix CE marking and draw up the EU Declaration of Conformity
• ▸ Keep technical documentation for 10 years