Ideas and tests for toys
Here are some ideas to think about and tests you can carry out at home. These tests are not British Standards' tests but are based on them.
Soft or cuddly toys:
- Put your finger nails behind the toy's eyes (if you can) and nose or anything else that could be pulled off. Give it a sharp tug. If it comes off it could be swallowed by a small child.
- Toys with long hair are not very suitable for young children as loose hairs might get into their mouths.
- Carefully feel around the toy for any hidden spikes or sharp points.
- Take hold of the fabric either side of any seam. Give it a good pull. If the seams come apart a child might choke on the stuffing.
Rattles:
- Check that you cannot get at the chimes or beads that make the noise. These could be swallowed or may cut a baby.
- Check that there is nothing which could cut or come off and choke a baby.
- Watch out for ribbons or strings which a baby might get hold of and which could choke it.
Toy cars and trains:
- Check for sharp metal edges. Edges should be rolled, folded over or covered so that they cannot cut you.
- Give wheels and tyres a good tug to make sure that they will not come off easily. If they do they could be swallowed and choke a child.
Rocking toys / horses:
- These toys could tip over so check them carefully by rocking backwards
and forwards and from side to side. A child could fall against something.
* Never use rocking toys next to glass e.g. low windows or patio doors.
Board games:
- There are no specific Standards for board games but many parts of BS EN 71 may apply, for example, ensuring that there is an age warning label about the small pieces that make up the game.
Pull along toys:
- For children under 3 the cord on the toy must be more than 1.5 mm thick. This could stop a child's fingers being cut if the toy gets stuck while a child is pulling.
- Check that the cord does not have any knots or fastenings which could make a slip-knot. This could form a noose and might trip or strangle a child.
Electrical toys:
- No child's toy should plug straight into the mains electricity supply. Toys for younger children should have batteries which are well secured so that only an adult can get to them and take them out.
- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for using batteries. Never let a young child get hold of button batteries. Although they are unlikely to choke a baby, they can do great harm in the stomach.
Imitation helmets:
- All imitation helmets and protective gear should have a warning label stating 'Warning! This is a toy. Does not provide protection'. If you need e.g. a cycle or skateboard helmet ask at a reputable cycle or sports shop.
Kites:
- Check that kite lines are not metal, they could conduct electricity.
* Kites with cords of more than 2 metres should have warnings stating 'Warning! Do not use near overhead power lines or during thunderstorms.'
Folding toys:
- Toys like pushchairs or ironing boards that fold could trap fingers. Use a pencil to test whether or not this could happen. Watch out especially for spring-loaded folding mechanisms.
Toy boxes:
- Check that there is a safety stop or locking device and that it works.
Injuries can happen if you leave toys lying around. It is very easy to trip and fall over them. About half of all toy related accidents are due to falls. This can be avoided by keeping toys in a toy box. This will also help to keep unsuitable toys away from young brothers and sisters.
Warning:
- Always make sure that you keep and read instructions and warnings.
- Always comply with age warning symbols.