New rules agreed by the European Parliament will extend toy safety testing, impose a digital product passport, and oblige online marketplaces to change the way toys are marketed online
The European Parliament has passed new toy safety laws in response to a rise in potentially hazardous products entering the bloc through online marketplaces.
The new rules, an update of an existing 2009 directive, impose additional bans on potentially harmful materials, extend safety regulations, and introduce a digital product passport (DPP) that will be required to ensure adherence with relevant safety checks. Online marketplaces will also be obliged to provide display space for CE marks, new safety warnings and the DPP.
“With the new toy safety regulation, Europe is sending a clear signal: safety must not be left up to chance”
Marion Walsmann (EPP, DE) said: “With the new toy safety regulation, Europe is sending a clear signal: safety must not be left up to chance. Thanks to clear guidelines, modern safety requirements and fair transitional arrangements, companies can plan and grow responsibly – and children can play carefree. This regulation is a win for everyone: consumers, manufacturers and the future of our children.”
The new rules will prohibit the use of chemicals that are particularly harmful to children, such as endocrine disruptors, substances that harm the respiratory system, and chemicals that are toxic for the skin and other organs. Intentional use of PFAS will also be banned, alongside the use of allergenic fragrances for products aimed at children under three.
Safety tests will be extended to include flammability, hygiene and radioactivity. Suppliers will also need to take into account whether digital toys may impact the mental health of children. Manufacturers and distributors will be required to provide warnings in “easily understandable language” and make timely corrective measures if safety issues arise.
Member states and companies will have four and a half years to implement the new rules, which will come into effect 20 days following their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
