August 11, 2014
Details
On September 30, 2014, the standard EN 71-1:2011 + A2:2013 “Safety of Toys – Part 1: Mechanical and Physical Properties,” acoustic requirements for sound emitting toys replaces the previous version of EN 71. Amendment A2:2013 specified testing requirements and limits for most toys intended to make a noise to ensure they meet the new acoustic requirements outlined in Directive 2009/48/EC. Reference to this standard was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on October 31st, 2013.
Retailers have a grace period for stock that is already placed on the EU market by September 30, 2014, allowing them to legally sell the product until the stock is depleted.
Why it Matters
From September 30, 2014, all toys intentionally producing sound are now required to be assessed. Toys emitting sounds have been categorized into 11 product types:
- Close-to-the-ear toys
- Table-top or floor toys
- Hand-held toys
- Toys using headphones or earphones
- Rattles
- Squeeze toys
- Pull-along or push toys
- Percussion toys
- Wind toys
- Cap-firing toys
- Voice toys
Toys that emit sounds that exceed the limits stated in the standard will be considered unsafe. Three exposure categories take into account that the length of time a sound is emitted from a toy is variable.
- Category 1: Toys emitting sound during time periods typically longer than 30 s after each initiation
- Category 2: Toys emitting sound during time periods typically shorter than 30 s but longer than 5 s after each initiation
- Category 3: Toys emitting sound during time periods typically shorter than 5 s after each initiation
Test methods have also been updated.
How UL Can Help
To learn how UL can help you comply with all EN 71 requirements, email [email protected]. A UL representative will follow up with you soon.