13/05/2009 - EU approves tougher toy safety law
EU governments have given the green light for tougher toy safety standards including a ban on the use of toxic substances.
The new updates to rules introduced 20 years ago curb the use of some allergenic fragrances, and set new standards for the sale of toys which are marketed with food and could pose a choking risk.
As per the rules use of any carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic chemicals will be banned in toys unless approved as safe by EU scientists.
There will be clearer safety labelling on toy packaging and manufacturers and importers will have to keep more detailed documentation available for inspection.
Consumer Affairs Minister Gareth Thomas said: "Shoppers need to have reassurances that the toys they buy for their children are safe. This new legislation will ensure stricter control on toy manufacture and product safety markings. Consumers should take care and only purchase toys from trusted retailers."
The legislation is being introduced in order to avoid safety scares similar to that of summer 2007 in which thousands of toys had to be withdrawn from sale across Europe because of potential risks to children.
Copyright © Press Association 2009
Related links
|
