UK toy suppliers are all regulated by the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011, which means that all toys sold must bear the CE safety mark. This safety mark is your guarantee that the item you are buying is safe and meets the requirements set out 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 types of types and many of them can be found on well-known auction sites, and most of the time they are 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. The 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 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.

Toymakers who do not meet these essential criteria could be guilty of criminal offenses and fines or prison terms, while the toys will be withdrawn from sale across the EU.

Some toys are excluded from this legislation and these include:

– Christmas decorations

– Children’s jewelry

– Toys and sports equipment.

However, even excluded toys must still comply with 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 Bureau of Trade Standards 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.

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