How to apply for EU EN71 certification for plastic animal models
Date：2025-09-27 09:33:57 Classification
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EN71 certification is the EU's mandatory safety standard for toys for children under 14 years old. As children's toys, plastic animal models must pass this certification to ensure they meet EU market access requirements. Products that fail to pass the certification risk customs detention and market recalls. Certification, however, can enhance consumer trust and improve a company's competitiveness.
I. Core Testing Items and Standard Requirements
Plastic animal models must focus on the first three parts of the EN71 standard:
EN71-1: Physical and Mechanical Properties
Testing items include sharp edges, risk of small parts falling off (such as protruding parts like ears and tails), drop testing to ensure they do not break, and tension/compression testing to prevent loose parts from posing a choking hazard.
EN71-2: Flame Retardancy
This test measures the burning rate of materials and prohibits the use of flammable materials (such as certain plastic coatings or fabric accessories) to avoid fire hazards.
EN71-3: Heavy Metal Migration
Tests for the content of eight heavy metals, including antimony, arsenic, barium, and cadmium. Strict limits are set (e.g., lead ≤ 0.05%) to prevent children from chewing and ingesting harmful substances.
II. Certification Process
Document Preparation
Company information, product manual (age indication required), parts list (BOM);
Test samples (2-3, identical to those in mass production).
Choose a Certification Body
Select an EU-approved laboratory (such as Dezewei Testing) to avoid invalidating the certificate due to unqualified laboratories.
Application and Testing
Submit application form and documents → Send samples → Laboratory testing for EN71-1/2/3 items. Turnaround time is approximately 5-7 business days.
Certification Obtaining and CE Marking
After passing the test, you will receive the EN71 certification. The product must affix the CE mark before entering the EU market.
III. Fees and Notes
Fee: Depending on the complexity of the product and the organization involved, the fee is typically around RMB 1,000. Please contact the certification body for details.
Key Tips:
Test samples must represent mass-produced products; otherwise, the test results may be invalid.
If the model contains electronic components (such as sound generation), additional testing of the battery compartment safety and electromagnetic compatibility is required.
Product consistency must be maintained throughout the certificate's validity period; changes to materials or design require retesting.
Through these steps, plastic animal models can enter the EU market in compliance with regulations, ensuring product safety and consumer trust. Companies are advised to reference the EN71 standard during the R&D phase to reduce subsequent rectification costs.
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