Toys Safety Regulations 2011
The Regulations provide the framework and the detail to ensure the safety of toys sold in the UK.
Overview:
The 2011 Regulations derive from the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
The Regulations specify the obligations that economic operators (manufacturers, importers and distributors) have to ensure that all toys made available in the UK meet the essential safety requirements set out in the toy Regulations and carry a CE Marking which is the manufacturer’s or his authorised representative’s declaration that the toy satisfies the essential safety requirements. The new regulations mirror the Directive’s clarification of scope and warnings along with new requirements in relation to standards, both physical and chemical, although the requirements relating to the latter will only enter into force in 2013. The Regulations are enforced by Trading Standards in Great Britain and by District Councils in Northern Ireland.
The Regulations enter into force on 19 August 2011 and revoke the 1995 Toys (Safety) Regulations (SI 1995/204). The Department undertook a public consultation on the proposed UK Regulations ending on 1 April 2011.
Am I affected?
The Regulations define toys as “products designed or intended (whether or not exclusively) for use in play by children under 14 years old”. They exclude certain toys and certain categories of object which might otherwise be considered to be toys.
The new Regulations affect manufacturers, importers and others involved in the supply chain.
Latest developments
The Regulation is new. BIS Guidance will be developed in due course.
Contact us:
at Prodregs@bis.gsi.gov.uk
