Strength ropes test

Toys and apparatus which are to take the weight of one or more children must be able to pass this test.

These products such as cars, hand carts, roller skates, skate boards, rocking horses, garden slides see-saws and climbing frames must not tip over or collapse under the weight of the child.

Testing in industry

• Static strength

Load the toy/apparatus with a mass of 50kg on its standing or sitting surface for 5 minutes. If the toy is for children under 36 months, the weight must be 25kg. If more than one child is likely to use the apparatus then extra loads must be added.

• Dynamic strength

Secure the same load to the toy/apparatus. Drive the toy into a 50mm high step at a speed of 2 metres per second three times.

• Swings/see-saws

Load the swing/see-saw for 1 hour.

Testing in school

Tests can be completed as in industry.

As you improve your product you must re test.

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