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Resources >> Industry Newsletter >> Eurofins THL Monthly Bulletin (November 2024)

Eurofins Toys & Hardlines Monthly Bulletin (November 2024)

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Eurofins newsflash Toys and Hardlines

 

EUROPE

 

Proposal for new application date for the European Deforestation Regulation

 

On 16 October 2024, the Council agreed to the Commission’s proposal to postpone the application date of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010.

 

According to this proposal, the obligations stemming from this regulation would be binding from:

 

  • 30 December 2025: For large operators and traders
  • 30 June 2026: For micro- and small enterprises

 

The Council will now inform the European Parliament of its position in view of the Parliament’s decision on its position. The aim is to have the regulation formally adopted by both co-legislators and published in the Official Journal of the EU so that it can enter into force by the end of the year.

 

For more information, please refer to the official proposal publication here on the European Commission website.

 

 

New update to Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs)

 

On 7 November 2024, the ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) released the new Candidate List of SVHCs with the addition of one new substance. The current list of SVHCs now contains 242 substances.

 

See the table below that indicates the latest substance addition:

 

Substance name

EC number

CAS number

Reason for inclusion

Examples of use(s)

1

Triphenyl Phosphate

204-112-2

115-86-6

Endocrine disrupting properties (Article 57(f) - environment)

This substance is used as a flame retardant and plasticiser in polymer formulations, adhesives and sealants.

 

Legal obligations for companies using SVHC substances include: 

- Suppliers provide customers and consumers with enough information to allow for safe use of products that contain a substance of very high concern (SVHC) above a concentration of 0.1 % (weight by weight)

- Importers and producers of these products must notify the ECHA if their article contains SVHC substances above a concentration of 0.1% weight by weight (w/w) and the substance is present in those products in quantities totalling over 1 tonne per producer or per importer per year. The notifications must be submitted within six months from the date that the substance is included in the list.

- Suppliers of substances on the Candidate List, supplied either on their own or in mixtures, must provide their customers with a safety data sheet.

- Under the Waste Framework Directive (Directive 2008/98/EC on waste- WFD), any supplier of an article containing a substance of very high concern (SVHC) in a concentration above 0.1% weight by weight (w/w) on the EU market is required to submit a SCIP Notification on that article to ECHA, as of 5 January 2021. SCIP is the database holding information on Substances of Concern in articles, as such or in complex objects (products), established under the WFD. The SCIP database complements the existing notification obligations for Candidate List substances in articles subject to REACH regulation and its related communication through the supply chain, according to Articles 7 (2) and 33 respectively.

 

Click here to refer to the official List on ECHA’s website.

 

 

New cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements

 

On 10 October 2024, the European Council adopted a new law related to cybersecurity in products with digital elements such as home cameras, fridges, TVs, and toys and this way they are safe before they are placed on the market. The regulation will apply to all products that are connected either directly or indirectly to another device or a network.

 

It will be published in the EU’s official journal soon. The new regulation will enter into force twenty days after this publication and will apply 36 months after it enters into force with some provisions to apply at an earlier stage.

 

For more information, consult the official publication of the European Parliament and Council publication: Regulation of the European Parliament and the Council on Horizontal Cybersecurity Requirements for Products with Digital Elements and Amending Regulations (EU) no 168/2013 and (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2020/1828 (Cyber Resilience Act)

 

 

New roles of the ‘Safety Gate’ national contact points

 

On 10 October 2024, the European Commission published the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2639, laying down rules for the application of Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety.

 

This implementing act specifies the role and tasks of single national contact points that each Member State must-have for the rapid alert system for sharing information on corrective measures concerning dangerous products (‘the Safety Gate rapid alert system’).

 

For more information, please refer to the official publication on the European Commission website here.

 

 

Evaluation of EU consumer laws

 

On 3 October 2024, the European Commission published the final version of the Commission Staff Working Document Fitness Check of EU consumer laws on digital fairness.

 

In May 2022, the European Commission announced that it would analyse and evaluate several pieces of EU consumer protection legislation such as:

 

  • the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive 2005/29/EC
  • the Consumer Rights Directive 2011/83/EU
  • the Unfair Contract Terms Directive 93/13/EEC

 

This determines if they are fit for purpose to ensure a high level of protection in the digital environment and an equal level of fairness online and offline.

 

For more information, please refer to the official publication on the European Commission website here.

 

 

Standard updates

 

The table below summarises the most recent standard updates and upcoming dates of withdrawal (non-exhaustive):

 

(*) Date of withdrawal: The latest date by which national standards conflicting with a European Norm (EN) (and Harmonisation Document (HD) for the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation (CENELEC)) have to be withdrawn.

 

The European Committee for Standardisation (CEN)/CENELEC

Reference

Title

Date of withdrawal (*)

Supersedes

EN 17860-3:2024

Carrier Cycles - Part 3: Lightweight multi-track carrier cycles - Mechanical aspects

31 March 2025

 

EN ISO 13351:2024

Fans - Dimensions (ISO 13351:2024)

31 March 2025

EN ISO 13351:2009

EN ISO 2884-1:2024

Paints and varnishes - Determination of viscosity using rotational viscometers - Part 1: Absolute viscosity measurement with cone-plate measuring geometry at high shear rates (ISO 2884-1:2024)

31 March 2025

EN ISO 2884-1:2006

EN ISO 19403-3:2024

Paints and varnishes - Wettability - Part 3: Determination of the surface tension of liquids using the pendant drop method (ISO 19403-3:2024)

31 March 2025

EN ISO 19403-3:2020

EN ISO 19403-2:2024

Paints and varnishes - Wettability - Part 2: Determination of the surface free energy of solid surfaces by measuring the contact angle (ISO 19403-2:2024)

31 March 2025

EN ISO 19403-2:2020

EN ISO 17895:2024

Paints and varnishes - Determination of volatile organic compound (VOC) - Gas-chromatographic method with headspace injection for VOC determination (ISO 17895:2024)

28 February 2025

EN ISO 17895:2005

EN ISO 10705-3:2024

Water quality - Detection and enumeration of bacteriophages - Part 3: Validation of methods for concentration of bacteriophages from water (ISO 10705-3:2003)

28 February 2025

 

EN 13451-1:2020+A1:2024

Swimming pool equipment - Part 1: General safety requirements and test methods for equipment installed in pools for public use

28 February 2025

EN 13451-1:2020/FprA1
EN 13451-1:2020

EN 15338:2024

Hardware for furniture - Strength and durability of extension elements and their components

31 March 2025

EN 15338:2007+A1:2010

EN ISO 21898:2024

Packaging - Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) for non-dangerous goods (ISO 21898:2024)

31 March 2025

EN ISO 21898:2005

EN 10088-2:2024

Stainless steels - Part 2: Technical delivery conditions for sheet/plate and strip of corrosion-resistant steels for general purposes

31 March 2025

EN 10088-2:2014

EN 15346:2024

Plastics - Recycled plastics - Characterization of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) recyclates

28 February 2025

EN 15346:2014

EN 15347-1:2024

Plastics - Sorted plastics wastes - Part 1: General characterisation

28 February 2025

EN 15347:2007

 

 

FRANCE

 

Ban of styrenic polymers or copolymers packaging

 

On 28 September 2024, the French Authorities published the Notice relating to the ban on packaging made entirely or partly from styrenic polymers or copolymers, which are not recyclable and cannot be integrated into a recycling sector.

 

Law No. 2021-1104 of 22 August 2021 on combating climate change and strengthening resilience to its effects prohibits, through its article 23, from 1 January 2025, “packaging made wholly or partially of styrenic polymers or copolymers, non-recyclable and incapable of entering a recycling sector”. This provision is codified in the penultimate paragraph, point III, of article L. 541-15-10 of the environmental code.

 

This entails a risk of conflict with future European regulations. For this reason, for the application of this provision of the environmental code, packaging made wholly or partially of styrenic polymers or copolymers, non-recyclable and unable to be integrated into a recycling sector, is understood to be packaging that does not fall into the recyclability performance classes A, B or C mentioned in article 6 of the draft regulation.

 

 

US

 

PFAS regulations

 

California Assembly Bill 347 (AB 347), signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on 29 September 2024, represents a significant legislative step in regulating perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products.

 

Often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment and the human body, PFAS are synthetic substances found in a wide range of products, including juvenile products, textiles, and food packaging. Although they offer benefits such as water and stain resistance, their potential health risks, including cancer and liver damage, have prompted regulatory action.

 

AB 347 brings the existing PFAS regulations covering juvenile products, textiles, and food packaging, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). The bill outlines a phased approach for implementation, requiring manufacturers to register their products, certify compliance, and adhere to testing and reporting standards. Additionally, the DTSC will be tasked with enforcing these regulations, conducting product tests, and issuing penalties for non-compliance. Notices of violations will be published on the website to ensure transparency and public accountability.

 

The law's primary objective is to reduce consumer exposure to harmful PFAS while establishing a clear and enforceable framework for manufacturers. AB 347’s phased timeline allows companies time to comply, but failure to do so will result in significant penalties. This document provides a detailed analysis of the key provisions of the law, its timeline, and its implications for manufacturers and consumers.

 

Key Provisions of AB 347

 

  1. Extension of Existing PFAS Laws
    AB 347 extends existing laws regulating PFAS in juvenile products, textiles, and food packaging by placing these categories under the jurisdiction of the DTSC. This ensures consistency in the application of restrictions and enforcement measures across all product types.
  2. Restricted Definition of Juvenile Products
    The bill narrows the definition of juvenile products to those specifically mentioned in the law, such as cribs, mattresses, and play mats. This targeted approach focuses the law on products that are most likely to expose children under 12 years of age to PFAS.

 

Requirements

 

  1. Regulations for Enforcement (by 1 January 2029)
    The DTSC is required to adopt regulations to implement and enforce PFAS restrictions by 1 January 2029. These regulations will provide the framework for manufacturers to ensure compliance with the law.
  2. Manufacturer Registration (by 1 July 2029)
    By 1 July 2029, manufacturers must register their products with the DTSC, and the registration process will include the following:
    • Paying registration fees.
    • The name and a description of each covered product it manufactures.
    • Providing a Statement of Compliance certifying adherence to PFAS prohibitions.
  3. Compliance and Enforcement (from 1 July 2030)
    Beginning 1 July 2030, the DTSC will enforce compliance with the PFAS restrictions through product testing, random sampling, and other regulatory measures.
  4. Legislative Reporting (by 1 July 2033)
    By 1 July 2033, the DTSC will submit a report to the Legislature detailing its compliance and enforcement activities under AB 347, including summaries of products tested, violations issued, and penalties enforced.

 

Manufacturer Compliance

 

  • Statement of Compliance
    Manufacturers must submit a statement certifying that each covered product complies with PFAS restrictions. The DTSC may request analytical test reports to verify compliance. The DTSC will publish a list of accepted testing methods and accredited third-party laboratories by 1 January 2029, to standardise testing procedures across industries.
  • Notice of Violation Publication
    In cases of non-compliance, the DTSC may issue a Notice of Violation as per Section 108083. The department is required to:
    • Publish the notice on its website, including relevant product information for each covered product subject to the violation.
    • Develop a process to keep interested parties informed of updates to notices of violations, ensuring transparency.
    • Receive and verify reports of alleged PFAS violations from consumers, businesses, and other entities, and assess administrative penalties based on verified findings.

 

Testing Disclosures and Compliance Verification
While AB 347 does not mandate product testing as a blanket requirement, it grants the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) the authority to request technical documentation from manufacturers to verify compliance with PFAS restrictions. This includes the submission of test results performed using analytical methods approved by the DTSC. Manufacturers are expected to maintain records demonstrating that their products meet the applicable PFAS laws and be prepared to provide these results if requested.

 

The DTSC will publish a list of approved testing methods and accredited laboratories, which manufacturers should consult to ensure they are following the appropriate procedures.

 

Existing PFAS Laws Now Under DTSC Jurisdiction

 

  1. AB 652 (2021) - PFAS in Juvenile Products
    • Prohibition: As of 1 July 2023, new juvenile products containing regulated PFAS cannot be sold in California. These products include cribs, mattresses, strollers, and other items for children under 12 years of age.
    • Key Compliance: Manufacturers are required to eliminate PFAS from juvenile products and use the least toxic alternatives.
  2. AB 1817 (2022) - PFAS in Textiles
    • Prohibition: Beginning 1 January 2025, textile articles containing regulated PFAS are prohibited. Outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions is exempt until 1 January 2028. However, from 1 January 2025, such apparel containing PFAS must include a label stating "Made with PFAS chemicals," both on physical products and online listings.
    • TOF Proxy: PFAS in textiles can be measured using Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) as a proxy, with thresholds set at 100 ppm, decreasing to 50 ppm by 2027.

Enforcement and Penalties

 

  • Enforcement
    The enforcement of AB 347 will be conducted by the California Attorney General or the DTSC. Enforcement actions can be initiated by the DTSC based on reports submitted by consumers, businesses, research institutions, and not-for-profit entities. The DTSC will independently test, verify, or inspect the reports to determine violations.
  • Penalties
    For violations of PFAS restrictions, the department may assess administrative penalties starting at $10,000 for the first offence. Additional penalties may accrue for ongoing violations. Penalties will be determined based on:
    • The severity of the violation.
    • The violator’s history of prior offences and cooperation with authorities.
    • Whether the violation was willful or accidental.

 

Implications for Industry
Manufacturers of juvenile products, textiles, and food packaging must comply with the new requirements under AB 347. Compliance involves registering products with the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and submitting a Statement of Compliance certifying that products meet PFAS restrictions.

 

Failure to adhere to these requirements may lead to substantial financial penalties and reputational harm, particularly as violations will be publicly posted on the DTSC’s website. It is crucial for companies to review their product lines for PFAS content and take the necessary steps to meet the compliance deadlines set by the law.

 

Conclusion
California AB 347 sets a new standard in PFAS regulation, providing clear guidelines for manufacturers and establishing strong enforcement mechanisms. The law not only protects consumers from harmful chemicals but also promotes transparency by publishing notices of violation for public access.

 

Companies that comply with AB 347 will demonstrate leadership in environmental responsibility, while those that fail to meet the requirements will face substantial penalties. As the enforcement deadlines approach, manufacturers must act now to align their products and processes with the law.

 

 

CPSC updates standard for infant bath seats

 

On 9 October 2024, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) published a direct final rule to update the mandatory safety standard for infant bath seats (16 CFR 1215) by incorporating the latest version of the ASTM F1967 with no modifications.

 

The latest version, ASTM F1967-24 (Safety Consumer Safety Specification for Infant Bath Seats), contains substantive changes to testing requirements in section 7.4.1.2 that clarify the test surface used in the stability test procedure. The revisions clarify that bath seats intended to contact the bottom surface of the bathtub must be tested on both Test Surface #1 and Test Surface #2.

 

In addition, ASTM F1967-24 contains substantive changes to testing requirements in section 7.4.1.1 that relate to specifications for the test platform (i.e., the bathtub on which the infant bath seat is placed for the stability test). ASTM F1967-24 now requires the test platform to be “alcove-style” and no longer requires all surfaces of the tub to be “smooth” or that the side ledge of the tub must have any certain uniform thickness.

 

Infant bath seats are defined as “an article that is used in a bathtub, sink or similar bathing enclosure and that provides support, at a minimum, to the front and back of a seated infant during bathing by a caregiver. This does not include products that are designed or intended to retain water for bathing.”

 

The direct final rule will become effective on 4 January 2025, unless the CPSC receives significant adverse comments by 8 November 2024.

 

 

CPSC issues safety standard for nursing pillows

 

On 25 October 2024, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a Final Rule to establish a consumer product safety standard for nursing pillows (16 CFR 1242).

 

16 CFR 1242 defines a nursing pillow as “any product intended, marketed, or designed to position and support an infant close to a caregiver’s body while breastfeeding or bottle feeding, including any removable covers, or slipcovers, sold on or together with such a product. These products rest upon, wrap-around, or are worn by a caregiver in a seated or reclined position.”

 

16 CFR 1242 includes the following:

 

  • General requirements:
    • Lead in paint and surface coating
    • Small parts
    • Hazardous sharp edges or points
    • Removal of components
    • Permanency of labels and warnings
  • Performance requirements:
    • Firmness
    • Infant containment
    • Infant restraints
    • Seam strength
    • Caregiver attachment strength
  • Test methods
  • Marking and labelling requirements

 

The Final Rule will become effective on 23 April 2025.

 

 

Standards updates

 

See below a table summarising some recent ASTM standards updates:

 

Reference

Title

ASTM F2417-24

Standard Specification for Fire Safety for Candles

ASTM F3669-24

Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Nursing Pillows

 

 

NEW ZEALAND

 

New Zealand updated requirements for graphic materials intended for children

 

On 19 September 2024, the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) updated the rules for interested party graphic materials marketed at children, such as crayons, fingerpaints and felt-tip pens, as part of their decision to reduce the lead levels through the Group Standards (Reducing Lead) Amendment Notice 2024.

 

The key changes for graphic materials marketed at children are:

 

  1. Products using the Graphic Materials Group Standard must meet the new element migration levels by 1 March 2025;
  2. The Graphic Materials Group Standard is now the only group standard for graphic materials marketed at children;
  3. The notification requirement (i.e. need for an EPA import permit) prior to importing these products has been removed. From 19 September 2024, importers are no longer required to notify the EPA, or seek a letter and customs clearance code (permit number), to import these products.
  4. Child or children means any person 12 years old or younger.
  5. The Authority considers that acceptable test methods for element migration include those specified in the EN 71-3:2019+A1:2021 or AS/NZS ISO 8124.3.2021
  6. The new element migration levels are as follows:

 

Elements

Sb

As

Ba

Cd

Cr III

Cr IV

Pb

Hg

Se

Maximum leachable quantity (mg/kg)

Dry, brittle, powder-like or pliable materials

45

3.8

1500

1.3

37.5

0.02

2

7.5

37.5

Liquid or sticky materials

11.3

0.9

375

0.3

9.4

0.005

0.5

1.9

9.4

Sb = Antimony, As = Arsenic, Ba = Barium, Cd = Cadmium, Cr = Chromium, Pb = Lead, Hg = Mercury, and Se = Selenium

 

What these changes mean for interested parties:

  • From 19 September 2024, importers are no longer required to notify the EPA, or seek a letter and customs clearance code, to import these products.
  • Notifications received by the EPA by 19 September 2024 will be processed as normal. If the shipment arrives after 19 September 2024, a letter confirming notification will be provided by the EPA, not a clearance code.
  • Importers or manufacturers are still required to hold evidence of the following, and provide it to the EPA upon request:
  • Importers or manufacturers will need to ensure graphic materials previously tested for migration of elements comply with the new levels of element migration.
  • Products currently being imported or manufactured may need to be re-tested by 1 March 2025 to show they comply with the new levels of element migration.

 

The following terms and definitions are applied to the updated Graphic Materials Group Standard 2020:

 

Graphic material means a material which is deposited onto another material by a graphic[s] instrument including fingers and hands for the purpose of writing, drawing, painting or marking, and includes but is not limited to:

 

  1. a crayon;
  2. a water colour paint;
  3. a finger paint;
  4. pastels, chalk, coloured pencils and felt pens

 

Crayon means a stick of coloured waxy material for writing, drawing, marking or painting.

 

Finger paint means a paste or jelly-like, coloured preparation specially designed for children, directly applicable to suitable surfaces with the fingers and hands.

 

For more information on the new importer obligations, please visit the website here.

 

 

CHINA

 

Update of approved national standards

 

In August and September 2024, the State Administration for Market Regulation (National Standardization Administration Committee) in China published lists of approved national standards for different product categories.

 

Below is a summary table with the relevant standards for consumer products.

 

No.

Standard

Applicable Scope

Into force

Furniture

1

GB 17927-2024

Safety technical specification of flame resistance for furniture

This document specifies the requirements, inspection rules and labelling of flame resistance for furniture, and describes the corresponding verification methods.

This document applies to the quality control of upholstered furniture and furniture upholstery.

1 September 2025

Hard goods

1

GB 27887-2024

Child restraint systems for power-driven vehicles

This document specifies the terms and definitions, general requirements, performance requirements and test methods, test reports, labels, and instructions for Child restraint systems for power-driven vehicles (hereinafter referred to as child restraint systems).

This document applies to the following types of child restraint systems suitable for installation on motor vehicles:

  1. Integral universal ISOFIX child restraint system (i-Size);
  2. Integral ISOFIX child restraint system for special vehicles;
  3. Integral universal harness-fixed child restraint systems;
  4. Seat belt-fixed child restraint system for integral special vehicle types;
  5. Non-integral universal child restraint system with backrest (i-Size booster seat);
  6. Child restraint system for non-integral special vehicles with backrest (booster seats for special models);
  7. Non-monolithic backless universal child restraint system (universal booster pad);
  8. Child restraint system for non-integral without backrest for special vehicles (booster pads for special vehicles).

1 July 2025

2

GB 44702-2024

Specification for the limitation of harmful substances found in watch casings contacting directly with skin

This document defines the terms and definitions of specification for the limitation of harmful substances found in watch casings directly in contact with the skin(hereinafter referred to as the "exterior parts of the watch"), stipulates the requirements, inspection rules and labels, and describes the corresponding test methods.

This document applies to watch casings made of metals, cermets, leather, plastics, rubber, synthetic sapphires, inorganic glass, and fibre composites that are in direct contact with skin.

1 October 2025

3

GB/T 30364-2024

Bamboo scrimber flooring

This document stipulates the terms and definitions, classification, technical requirements, test methods, inspection rules and product marking, packaging, transportation, and storage of bamboo scrimber flooring.

This document applies to flooring made from recombinant bamboo.

1 April 2025

4

GB/T 27728.1-2024

Wet wipes and similar products Part 1:General requirements

This document specifies the general requirements for wet wipes, special requirements for adult wet wipes, special requirements for pet wet wipes, special requirements for wet wipes for objects, as well as inspection rules, labelling, packaging, transportation, and storage, defines terms and definitions, gives product classifications, and describes corresponding test methods.

This document applies to the production, inspection, and sales of various wet wipes made of non-woven fabrics, dust-free paper, or other raw materials used in daily life.

Note 1: The requirements for wet wipes include general requirements and special requirements. The special requirements for adult wet wipes, pet wet wipes, and wet wipes for objects are shown in this document, and the special requirements for baby wet wipes and disinfectant wet wipes are shown in GB/T 27728.2 and GB/T 27728.3, respectively.

Note 2: The special requirements for adult wet wipes and wet wipes for objects in this document do not apply to disinfectant wet wipes.

1 October 2025

5

GB/T 22728.2-2024

Wet wipes and similar products—Part 2:Particular requirements for babies and children wet wipes

This standard stipulates the classification, requirements, test methods, inspection rules, marking and packaging, transportation and storage of babies and children wet wipes.

This standard applies to all kinds of babies and children wet wipes made of nonwoven, wood pulp or other raw materials used in daily life.

1 October 2025

6

GB/T 22728.3-2024

Wet wipes and similar products—Part 3: Particular requirements for disinfection wet wipes

This part of GB/T27728 specifies the terms and definitions, requirements, test methods, inspection rules, marks and packaging of disinfection wet wipes, transportation, and storage.

This part applies to the non-woven fabrics and other materials used in daily life as the carrier, purified water as production water, and an appropriate number of disinfectants and other raw materials to make products with cleaning and disinfection effects, and disinfectant wet wipes for cleaning and sterilizing the surface of hygienic hands, intact skin, environment and ordinary objects.

This section does not apply to disinfectant wet wipes for infant skin and products for infants and toddlers.

1 October 2025

Labelling

1

GB/T 17889.3-2024

Ladders Part 3: Information for use

This document gives the safe use suggestions and warning signs for the ladders covered by GB/T17889.1 and meeting the requirements of GB/T17889.1, GB/T17889.2, GB/T17889.4, GB/T17889.5 and GB/T17889.6, as well as the safe use of hinged ladders that meet the requirements of GB/T17889.4 and are used as self-supporting or relying ladders; Suggestions and warning signs for the safe use of self-supporting or reliant telescopic ladders as required by T17889.5, and suggestions and warning signs for safe use of movable platform ladders that meet the requirements of GB/T17889.6.

This document applies to ladders covered by GB/T17889.1, and also to hinged ladders used as self-supporting or relying on ladders.

This document does not apply to ladders for special purposes, such as: Fixed ladders, fire ladders, or insulated ladders.

Note: This document is used in conjunction with GB/T17889.1.

29 September 2024

 

For the complete list, please refer to the following official publications:

 

 

INTERNATIONAL

 

Standard updates for toys

 

The table below summarises the most recent standard updates and upcoming dates of withdrawal (non-exhaustive):

 

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

Reference

Title

Publication date

Previously

ISO/TR 8124-8:2024

Safety of toys

Part 8: Age determination — First age grade for the appropriate play of toys

September 2024

ISO/TR 8124-8:2016

 

 

New legislations and proposals for single-use plastic products

 

The table below summarises the most recent publications regarding single-use plastic products (non-exhaustive):

 

Entity

Date

Publication

Ley Chile

12 August 2024

Law 21691 Electronic signature modifies law no. 21,368, which regulates the delivery of single-use plastics and plastic bottles, and modifies the legal bodies that it indicates, in terms of the entry into force periods of its obligations.

The purpose of this law is to postpone the entry into force of the obligations established in articles 3, 4 and 5 of law 21.368. In particular, it extends to 54 months, that is, until February 2026, the deadline for compliance with the provisions on the delivery of single-use products. Likewise, the deadline for the disposal of the percentage of returnable bottles in the display case, provided for in Article 8 of the law, is extended to 54 months.

Finally, it extends the period from 18 to 40 months from the publication of law 21.368, for the Ministry of the Environment to issue the regulation referred to in the second transitory article of the aforementioned law.

World Trade Organization

29 August 2024

G/TBT/N/PER/164

Draft Technical Regulation on reusable plastic tableware and/or flatware

The notified draft Technical Regulation establishes the technical and labelling requirements to be met in the manufacture of reusable plastic tableware and/or flatware for food and beverages for human consumption, to ensure that no microplastic pollution occurs or hazardous substances are produced.

The European Commission

18 September 2024

C/2024/5583

Special report 16/2024: EU revenue based on non-recycled plastic packaging waste – A challenging start hindered by data that is not sufficiently comparable or reliable

The European Commission

19 September 2024

2024/0527/PL

Draft Act amending the Act on Packaging Management and Packaging Waste and certain other Acts.

The planned implementation of deposit and return systems and the coordination and supervision of their operation in Poland.

The European Commission

11 October 2024

Rules on single-use plastics and fishing gear (evaluation)

The Single-Use Plastics Directive aims to prevent this waste and reduce its impact on the marine environment. This initiative will evaluate the impact of the Directive’s measures, informing any possible future updates or amendments.

 

 

PRODUCT RECALLS / ALERTS

 

Below, you will find a monthly table summarising product recalls and alerts in Europe (Source” Safety Gate (RAPEX)” and “RASFF”) and the U.S. (Source “CPSC”)

 

 

Europe

 

Safety Gate (RAPEX) (European Commission Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products – Alerts reported by EU national authorities)

 

The following 44 alerts regarding toys, childcare articles and children's equipment products were reported between week 39 and week 42 of 2024.

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes


Burns, Chemical, Choking, Damage to sight




1

Ball

The toy has small parts that can easily detach (a piece of yellow casing). In addition, the toy material contains methylisothiazolinone (MI) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI).

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.





















Chemical




1

Ballons

The rubber of the balloons releases an excessive amount of nitrosatable substances (NDMA).

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive.



1

Fancy-dress mask

The product has an excessive concentration of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.



13

Toy slime

The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-3.



2

Beach ball

The plastic material of the product has an excessive concentration of diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.




1

Toys

The toys release an excessive amount of nitrosatable substances, which generate nitrosamines notably N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), N-Nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA), and N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA).

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-12.



2

Inflatable toy

The toy contains an excessive amount of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.



1

Plastic doll

The doll has an excessive concentration of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.






Chemical, Choking




1

Toy pétanque set

The product has a small part. Moreover, the plastic releases an excessive amount of N-nitrosatable substances.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-12 and EN 71-1.




1

Toy dinosaur

Small parts are easily detached from the toy. The button batteries inside the sound-producing part can also detach at the same time.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.




Chemical, Choking, Health risk





1

Stacking toy

A small part can easily detach from the toy. Moreover, the migration of lead from the toy is too high.

In addition, the migration of N-nitrosatable substances from the toy is too high.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1, EN 71-3 and EN 71-12.



Chemical, Environment



1

Toy slime

The migration of boron and organic tin from the toy slime is too high.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-3.







1

Toy robot

The plastic material of the cable has excessive concentrations of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) and lead. The solders in the product have an excessive concentration of lead.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS Directive) or the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) Regulation.

























Choking



1

Plastic toy

The toy snail has small parts that can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Soft toy

The soft toy has small parts that can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Toy rattle

Small parts can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Fishing toy

The fishing toy set has small parts.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.




1

Toy jewellery set

Due to its characteristic appearance, form, colour and size, the product may be mistaken for foodstuff.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.




1

Children's bedding set

The stuffing material of the products is easily accessible due to the weakness of certain seams.

The product does not comply with the General Product Safety Directive or EN 16779.




2

Teething bracelet

The bracelet is not sufficiently strong: the cord can break, generating small parts as the beads release.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Teething necklace

The product can easily break, resulting in small parts.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Toy pistol set

The suction cups of the projectiles can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.



1

Toy telephone

Small parts can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.




1

Soft toy

The fibrous stuffing material of the toy is easily accessible due to the weakness of certain seams.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-1.







Choking, Strangulation




1

Lightweight quilt

Due to the weakness of the seams, the filling in the product is easily accessible. Moreover, the product has threads that can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or EN 16779-1.




1

Cot bumper

The zippers can be easily opened whereby the child can access the filling of the product, put it in the mouth and choke. Moreover, the product has loops and threads that can easily detach.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or EN 16780.












Injuries




1

Swing

The product has accessible openings and holes, in which children can become trapped.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive or EN 71-8.




1

Car seat cushion

When the product is placed on the car seat, it forces the car seat belt in an incorrect position.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive.




1

Children's car seat

The child restraint system does not sufficiently prevent vertical displacement of the head in case of an accident.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or the Regulation UNECE No 44.

 

The following 2 alerts regarding furniture were reported between week 39 and week 42 of 2024.

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes






Injuries



1

Outdoor chair

The chair can easily collapse.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive.



1

Table

The table can easily collapse under heavy weight.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive.

 

The following 6 alerts regarding miscellaneous consumer products were reported between week 39 and week 42 of 2024.

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes









Chemical



1

Gloves

The leather in the product contains chromium VI.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.



1

Massage ball set

The product has an excessive concentration of dibutyl phthalate (DBP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.



2

Swimming ring

The product is child-appealing and the plastic material of the toy has an excessive concentration of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP).

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.





Chemical, Environment





1

Pottery wheel

The plastic cord has excessive concentrations of short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs), bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The solders in the product have an excessive concentration of lead.

The product does not comply with the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) Regulation or the Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).




Drowning




1

Inflatable swim seat

The product may resemble a toy; however, there is a risk of drowning if children play with it unsupervised. Floating seats must be used under constant adult supervision.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Directive or EN 13138-3.

 

 

UK

 

OPSS issues Product Safety Alerts on the UK market.

 

The following 12 alerts regarding toys, childcare articles and children's equipment products were reported between week 39 and week 42 of 2024.

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes



Burn



1

Halloween Projector Torch

It can overheat, causing the bottom of the product to melt.

The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.



Chemicals



1

Princess Figure in Slime

The green-coloured slime contains excess concentrations of boron.

The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.







Choking




1

Doll

The soother ring is easily detachable which can cause the magnet to be easily accessible.

The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.




1

Magnetic Darts Toy

The metal tips on the darts were found to detach too easily. Additionally, one of the magnets was found to have a magnetic flux which exceeds the maximum permissible level.

The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.






Choking






1

Magnetic Dart Board

The metal tips on the darts were found to detach too easily.

Additionally, one of the magnets was found to have a magnetic flux which exceeds the maximum permissible level.

The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.















injuries



1

Baby Stroller

It is possible for the restraint system to fail while in use.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.




1

Child’s Car Seat

A number of the car seats within the affected batch numbers had a screw working loose resulting in the handle not operating correctly. This could cause the handle to become detached.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.



1

Baby Swing Chair

It has been identified as insufficiently stable.

This product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.




1

Children’s Car Seat Base

The affected products present a risk of injuries due to an installation error that could potentially result in the seat dislodging from the base.

The affected products do not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.






Suffocation






1

Bed Rail Bumpers

The possibility of the user becoming trapped between the rail bumper and the cot side or between the bumper and the cot mattress.

Additionally, the presence of the attachment straps presents a potential strangulation hazard.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.







Injuries



1

Baby Swing Chair

It has been identified as insufficiently stable.

This product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.




1

Children’s Car Seat Base

The affected products present a risk of injuries due to an installation error that could potentially result in the seat dislodging from the base.

The affected products do not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

 

The following 7 alerts regarding miscellaneous consumer products were reported between week 39 and week 42 of 2024.

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes




Chemicals




1

Decorative Robot

The green paint used was found to contain organic tin at a level which exceeds the maximum limit in paint on toys and poses a potential toxicity hazard to a child.

Additionally, although designed/intended as a decorative article it has been deemed that the product is potentially child-appealing.





Choking and cuts





1

Decorative Robot

It has been deemed that the product is potentially child-appealing. During tension testing, the body easily detached from the legs, exposing nails, springs and exposed points. The springs were not secured and were able to fit entirely into a small parts cylinder. If a young child were to place one of these small springs in their mouth, they may choke.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.












Injuries





2

Bicycle Components

It has been identified that during a specification change, an incorrect brake rotor was fitted to the bicycles. In addition to the specification change, a 1mm spacer was added to the brake calliper, which caused the brake pads to sit slightly high on the rotor.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.



1

Light -up Diffuser

It has been identified that the batteries can be removed too easily.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.




1

Aluminium Telescopic Ladder

The ladder did not have a bar-type stabiliser as required by the standard, in order to ensure the ladder has sufficient stability.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.



Microbiological contamination



1

Christmas Garland and Wreath

It has been identified that some products have become contaminated with mould.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

 

 

U.S.

 

Between 29 August 2024 and 24 October 2024, the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) published the following recalls:

 

9 recalls regarding toys and childcare products

 

Hazard

Number of alerts

Notes


Choking


1

Toy dumbbell

The gray caps on the end of the dumbbell toy can come off, posing a choking hazard to infants.



Lead poisoning



1

Kid’s garden set

The painted long hoe and rake of the recalled garden set contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead paint ban, posing a lead poisoning hazard to children. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health issues.




Fall




1

Highchairs

The recalled highchairs violate the regulations for high chairs, as the leg openings on the high chair are too wide, posing an entrapment hazard to infants. Additionally, the highchairs pose a fall hazard because the tray can become disengaged from the product.














Ingestion














4

Fort kits

The flashlight on the recalled kits violates the mandatory federal battery-operated toy regulation because the flashlights contain button cell batteries in a compartment that can be easily opened without requiring the use of a common household tool. When button cell batteries are swallowed, the ingested batteries can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death, posing an ingestion hazard.

Children’s jewellery sets

The rings contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead content ban and levels of cadmium that are prohibited in children’s products by the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Lead and cadmium are toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Party Supply toy set

The recalled Glow in the Dark Supplies Toy Sets violates the mandatory federal battery-operated toy regulation because the Bunny Ears Headbands found in the sets contain button cell batteries that can be easily accessed without requiring the use of a common household tool. When button cell batteries are swallowed, the ingested batteries can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns and death, posing an ingestion hazard to children.

Baby gallery art cards

The recalled Baby Tummy Time Gallery art card pockets have clear plastic coverings that contain levels of phthalate that exceeds the federal phthalates ban. Phthalates are toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.






Suffocation



1

Playpens

The recalled playpens violate the federal safety regulations for play yards. The included basketball hoop accessory can be a head entrapment hazard and children can become entrapped beneath the mattress, posing a suffocation hazard.



1

Infant swings

The swing should never be used for sleep and bedding materials should never be added to it. If the product is used for sleep or bedding material is added, the headrest and body support insert on the seat pad can increase the risk of suffocation.

 

12 recalls of consumer products

 

Type of Risk

Number of alerts

Notes



Injury



1

Ceiling hoist

The plastic buckles on the straps being used to hold a kayak, canoe or other large objects with the ceiling hoist can break, posing an injury hazard to consumers.






Fall






2

Climbing harnesses

The recalled harness can be put on backwards and the rope or carabiner can be attached to a non-weight-bearing leg loop elastic band, placing the user at risk of falling from a height and sustaining serious injury, including paraplegia or death.

Tub safety bars

The plastic sticker grip pads can become dislodged after installation on tubs with tapered side walls, making the recalled Multi-Grip Tub Safety Bars unstable during use, posing a fall hazard.











Fire and burn


1

Flashlights

The flashlights can overheat and melt the outer casing, posing fire and burn hazards.






1

Firepits

Alcohol flames can be invisible and lead to flame jetting when refilling the fire pit reservoir. Flame jetting is a serious event that can occur while pouring alcohol, when fire flashes back to the alcohol container and suddenly propels burning alcohol out of the container and onto people nearby.

Alcohol can also splash, spill or leak out of the fire pit reservoir during use, causing a flash fire that can spread and create larger hotter flames, that can escape the unit.

Use of the recalled fire pits can lead to injury quickly and unexpectedly, causing burns in less than one second, that can be serious and deadly.




1

Lighters

The recalled lighters do not have child-resistant mechanisms and were not tested to the federal regulatory requirements for child resistance. Young children under 5 years of age could ignite the lighters, posing fire and burn hazards.






Entrapment






2

Drain covers

The recalled drain covers do not conform to the entrapment protection regulations of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA), posing an entrapment hazard to swimmers and bathers.

Portable bed rails

The recalled bed rails violate federal regulations for adult portable bed rails, posing a serious entrapment hazard and risk of death by asphyxiation. When the bed rails are attached to a bed, users can become entrapped within the bed rail or between the bed rail and the side of the mattress.


Fall and injury


1

Platform beds

The recalled beds can sag, break, or collapse during use, posing fall and injury hazards to consumers.


Fire


1

Desk lamp

The desk lamp’s battery compartment can overheat while using the USB charging cord, posing a fire hazard.


Injury and laceration


1

Mirrors

The mirrors’ glass can detach from the wall attachment base and fall, posing injury and laceration hazards.




Head injury




1

Helmets

The recalled helmets do not comply with the positional stability, retention system, impact, labelling and certification requirements of the mandatory federal safety regulations for bicycle helmets. The helmets can fail to protect the wearer in the event of a crash, posing a risk of head injury.