How to apply for EU EN71-1-2-3 test report for children's toys
Date:2025-10-22 11:43:44 Classification
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EN71 is the EU standard for toys. The European Union's EN71 toy certification directive aims to establish technical specifications for toys entering the European market, thereby reducing or preventing harm to children. The complete process and key points for obtaining an EN71-1-2-3 test report for children's toys exported to the EU include:
I. Core Contents of EN71 Testing
1. EN71-1: Physical and Mechanical Performance Testing
- Test Items: Drop Test (simulating a 1.7m drop), Small Parts Test (to prevent swallowing and choking), Sharp Edge/Point Test, Tensile Test (seams/ear, nose, and eye adhesion), Pressure Test (simulating child sitting pressure), Torque Test (for detachable parts).
- Key Requirements: Toys for children under 36 months must not contain small parts; the plastic film packaging must be ≥ 0.038mm thick or perforated (1% of the perforation area/30mm²).
2. EN71-2: Flame Retardancy Test
- Applicable Products: Toys containing textile/plush materials (e.g., plush dolls, cosmetics, and apparel).
- Standard: Material burning speed ≤ 30 mm/s (45° inclined burning method).
3. EN71-3: Chemical Migration Test
- Analyzed Elements: Leachable amounts of eight heavy metals (antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and selenium). Limits, for example, lead ≤ 90 ppm and cadmium ≤ 75 ppm.
- Simulated Conditions: Migration is measured after immersion in gastric acid.
II. Application Process and Procedures
Step 1: Preliminary Preparation
- Bill of Materials: Provide product specifications, design drawings, parts list (BOM), and material composition.
- Sample Requirements:
- Submit two to three complete finished products (including packaging).
- Multiple color/material versions require separate samples.
Step 2: Select a Certification Body
- Confirm that the laboratory is EU accredited (e.g., ISO 17025) (Dezewei CNAS registration number: L8083).
- Sign a contract and specify the test items (cost starts at approximately 1,000 RMB, depending on product complexity).
Step 3: Laboratory Testing
- Turnaround time: Normally 5-7 business days (expedited service can be shortened).
- Test Details:
- EN71-1: Mechanical Abuse Simulation (Tension/Torsion/Impact);
- EN71-2: Flame Spread Rate Test;
- EN71-3: Acidic Solution Extraction of Heavy Metals.
Step 4: Obtain Report and Certification
- Upon passing the test, the laboratory will issue an EN71 test report and CE Declaration of Conformity.
- Products must be affixed with the CE mark (height ≥ 5mm) to enter the EU market.
III. Key Considerations
1. Age Grouping:
- Toys for children aged 0-3 years are strictly prohibited from containing small parts; toys for children aged 3-6 years must be labeled with a warning label.
2. Material Compliance:
- Flammable materials such as celluloid are prohibited; plush fillings must be flame retardant.
3. Common Failure Points:
- Small parts falling off (e.g., doll eyes), packaging that is too thin, and excessive levels of heavy metals.
4. Ongoing Maintenance:
- Retesting is required after material/design changes.