Toys, Games & Amusement Standards (EN & ISO) are the guardians of safe play. The European toy market is governed by the strict Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Harmonized standards provide the technical proof that products—from plush bears to electric ride-ons—are free from physical, chemical, and electrical hazards.
Safe Play is Serious Business
There is no compromise when it comes to children. European Standards (EN 71 series) are globally recognized as the gold standard for toy safety. They define rigorous tests for choking hazards, flammability, and the migration of toxic chemicals, ensuring that playtime remains safe and fun.
🧸 Mechanical Safety
Prevent choking, cuts, and entrapment hazards with the physical testing methods of EN 71-1.
⚗️ Chemical Safety
Ensure materials are non-toxic and compliant with strict migration limits using EN 71-3.
🎢 Amusement Rides
Guarantee the structural integrity and safety of fairground machinery with EN 13814.
Essential Standards for Toy Manufacturers
To place toys on the European market, compliance with these harmonized standards is virtually mandatory for CE marking:
| Standard | Title / Scope | Key Application |
|---|---|---|
| EN 71-1 | Mechanical & Physical Properties | Testing for small parts, sharp points, stability. |
| EN 71-2 | Flammability | Ensures costumes and soft toys don’t burn rapidly. |
| EN 71-3 | Migration of Certain Elements | Limits for heavy metals (lead, mercury, etc.). |
| EN 62115 | Electric Toys – Safety | Battery safety, heating, and electric shock prevention. |
| EN 13814 | Fairground & Amusement Park Machinery | Design and operation of rides and structures. |
| EN 14960 | Inflatable Play Equipment | Safety requirements for bouncy castles. |
Strategic Advantages of Compliance
Compliance is the key to market access and consumer confidence.
- CE Marking: You cannot legally sell toys in the EU without the CE mark. Harmonized standards (EN 71) are the primary route to prove conformity.
- Retailer Requirements: Major retailers and marketplaces (Amazon, etc.) require test reports proving EN 71 compliance before listing products.
- Brand Protection: Rigorous testing prevents dangerous product recalls that can bankrupt a toy company and destroy its reputation.
- Global Recognition: ISO 8124 standards (similar to EN 71) facilitate export to international markets like Australia and New Zealand.
📥 Access Official Toy Safety Standards
Ensure your products are safe for children. Download official EN & ISO documents directly from Genorma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do handmade toys need to comply with standards?
Yes. The Toy Safety Directive applies to all toys sold in the EU, regardless of whether they are mass-produced or handmade. Artisans must ensure their products meet EN 71 requirements and apply the CE mark.
What is EN 71-3?
EN 71-3 limits the migration of 19 toxic elements (like aluminum, arsenic, lead, and mercury) from toy materials. It simulates what happens if a child swallows or licks the toy.
Are electronic toys covered by EN 71?
Electronic toys must comply with EN 62115 (Electric Toys – Safety) for electrical aspects, in addition to the relevant parts of EN 71 (mechanical/chemical) and the EMC Directive.
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