Brake test

Toys, where the hands and/or feet provide the motive power, do not have to be tested.

Roller-skates, skate boards and scooters also do not need to be tested.

Mechanically or electrically propelled toys must have a braking device.

Electrically propelled ride-on toys must have a cut off switch. Applying breaks will automatically cut off the power.

Free wheeling toy bicycles must have assembly and maintenance instructions. They must be fitted with two independent braking systems, one operating the front wheel and one the back wheel.

When tested the toy should not move more than 5cm.

Testing in industry

Test for toys other than bicycles

Load the toy with 50kg (over 36 months) or 25 kg (under 36 months) and stand it on a plane incline at 10° covered with a surface of abrasive paper. Apply a force of 50N to the brake. Each brake must be tested separately. Examine whether the toy moves more than 5cm.

Test for toy bicycles

Load as above, place on the same incline. Apply a force of 30N to a hand operated break and 50N to a pedal operated one.

Examine whether it moves more than 5cm.

Testing in school

Tests can be attempted as in industry, finding a gentle slope in the school/college grounds. A fabric cushion can be made to weigh the correct weight and attached to the toy before testing the product.

Your results should be recorded, a conclusion drawn and a decision made.