On late September, a new version of toy standard EN 71-5 "Chemical toys (sets) other than experimental sets" was published by The European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This new version, EN 71-5:2015, is now harmonized under the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC, and will supersede the previous EN 71-5:2013 on 31st May, 2016.

5 new restricted substances are officially added to EU Toy Safety Directive

12-14-15Greater China

Three Commission Directives (EU) 2015/2115, 2015/2116 and 2015/2117, have been published in Official Journal of European Union on 24 Nov 2015.

These Commission Directives amended Appendix C to Annex II to Directive on the safety of toy as regards chemical requirements in toys that are intended for children under 36 months, or in other toys intended to be placed in the mouth.

Use of restricted chemicals 1. Formamide is used in the plastics and polymers industry as a solvent, plasticiser or as a substance associated with a blowing agent used in the production of foam. It is used in a range of foam toys, such as puzzle mats. 2. BIT is also used as a preservative in water-based toys including hobby paints and finger paints. Since it is a well-documented contact allergen, the use of BIT in cosmetic is already prohibited. 3. CMI and MI, both individually and in a ratio of 3:1, are mainly used as preservatives in water-based toys such as hobby paints, finger paints, window/glass paints, glues and soap bubbles. Contact allergic reactions are observed with either CMI and MI in a ratio of 3:1 or the individual components CMI or MI in cosmetic, therefore these substances are not recommended for use in toys.