EU EN71 certification for plastic model toys
Date：2026-05-06 10:00:13 Classification
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EU EN71 Certification for Plastic Model Toys
I. Relationship between Plastic Model Toys and EN71 Certification
Plastic model toys are one of the core product categories for which EN71 certification applies. According to the EU Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC), all toys sold in the EU market must bear the CE marking, and the EN71 standard is an important technical basis for proving that a product complies with this directive. Plastic model toys typically consist of multiple components, including assembly parts, instructions, and packaging materials, each of which may involve different EN71 testing requirements.
II. Main Testing Items for EN71 Certification
1. EN71-1 Mechanical and Physical Performance Testing
This is the most important testing item for plastic model toys, primarily assessing the safety of the toy under normal use and foreseeable abuse conditions. Tests include: small parts testing (assessing for choking risks), sharp points and edges testing, point testing, projectile testing, stability testing, and strength testing. For model toys with electric motors, electrical safety testing is also required.
2. EN71-2 Flammability Test
This test assesses the flammability of plastic model toy materials to ensure that the product does not burn too quickly or produce dangerous molten droplets when exposed to a flame. Test methods include horizontal and vertical flammability tests, with specific flammability rate limits determined based on the toy's intended use and age group.
3. EN71-3 Migration Test for Specific Elements
This is the most critical chemical safety test for plastic toys, detecting the migration of 19 heavy metal elements (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, barium, selenium, antimony, etc.) in a simulated gastric fluid environment. Each element has strict migration limits, and the paint, coatings, and plastic body of the plastic model toy must be tested separately.
4. EN71-4 Chemical Safety for Toys (Experimental Toys)
If a plastic model toy kit contains chemical experimental components (such as chemical reagents used to create special effects), it must comply with this standard.
5. EN71-9/10/11 Organic Compound Testing
This assesses the content of potentially migrating organic compounds in plastic model toys, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrosamines, phenols, plasticizers, etc. These compounds may originate from plastic raw materials, dyes, inks, or adhesives.
III. EN71 Certification Process
Step 1: Determine Product Scope and Testing Standards
Plastic model toys typically require testing in three core areas: EN71-1, EN71-2, and EN71-3. Some products may also require testing for organic compounds in EN71-9/10/11. A complete list of test items needs to be determined based on the specific materials, structure, and function of the product.
Step 2: Select a Testing Institution
Select a third-party testing laboratory with CNAS accreditation and EU Notified Body accreditation. It is recommended to prioritize well-known institutions with laboratories in China (e.g., Dezewei Testing CNAS Registration No.: L8083), for ease of communication and sample delivery.
Step 3: Application Submission and Sample Preparation
Fill out the testing application form and provide basic product information (including material composition table, design drawings, packaging information, etc.). Prepare representative samples as required, typically 2-3 complete sets of packaged products.
Step 4: Laboratory Testing
The testing organization conducts various tests on the samples. The testing cycle usually takes 5-10 working days. If any non-compliance is found during the testing process, a non-compliance report will be issued, along with corrective action recommendations.
Step 5: Report Issuance and Certificate Acquisition
After all tests are passed, the testing organization issues an EN71 test report and CE technical documentation. The company can then affix the CE marking and sell its products in the EU market.
IV. Processing Time and Fee Reference
| Item | Reference Time | Factors Affecting Fee
| Basic EN71 Testing (Parts 1/2/3) | 5-7 business days | Product complexity, sample quantity
| Expedited Service | 2-3 business days | Laboratory scheduling
Fee Explanation: Specific fees are determined based on factors such as product material type, number of parts, and whether organic compound testing is required. It is recommended to obtain a detailed quote from the testing organization.
V. Precautions and Recommendations
Important Reminders:
Material Consistency: Plastic model toys typically contain multiple plastic materials (such as ABS, PVC, PS, etc.), and each material requires separate EN71-3 heavy metal migration testing.
Coatings and Printing: Paint, pad-printed patterns, stickers, etc., on the surface of model toys all require chemical testing and cannot be omitted.
Packaging Material Compliance: The outer packaging cardboard box and printing inks may also need to comply with EN71 requirements.
Age Labeling: EN71 testing requirements vary depending on the target age group; the applicable age range must be clearly labeled.
Continuous Compliance: After changes in raw material suppliers or adjustments to production processes, it is recommended to retest to ensure compliance.
For specific testing solutions or cost quotations, it is recommended to contact a professional testing organization directly for detailed consultation.
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