European Union – Publication of Three Guidance Documents on the Application of Revised Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC

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European Union – Publication of Three Guidance Documents on the Application of Revised Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC

In July 2012, the European Commission published three Guidance Documents intended to facilitate the application of the Revised Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC by all stakeholders.

Summary of Guidance Documents

New version of the Aquatic Toys Guidance Document No 7 – updated 9 July 2012
The reference to Directive 88/378/CEE is deleted.
One example of a floating leisure article which is not considered as a toy is added (picture 7 in Guidance Document).

New version of the Packaging Guidance Document No 12 – updated 9 July 2012
Definition of toy bag is added in accordance with EN 71-1: 2011.
A toy bag is a bag, clearly intended for use in play, often having features designed to encourage the child to use the bag in play activities.

Publication of Guidance Document No 16 relative to Electronic Equipment – dated 9 July 2012
This document clarifies the classification of electronic equipment.

It reminds that, according to Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC, electronic equipment such as personal computers and game consoles which are used to access interactive software and their associated peripherals are not to be considered as toys.

The only exception is that they shall be considered as toys if they
(i) are specifically designed for and targeted at children and
(ii) have a play value on their own. "Have a play value on their own" means an independent play value that goes beyond just enabling the user to play the software-based game for which it was designed to be used.

It also reminds that interactive software intended for leisure and entertainment, and their storage media are not to be considered as toys.

Examples of products to be considered as TOYS

Examples of ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (not to be considered as toys)

Additional Information
Link for the Guidance Documents: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/toys/documents/guidance/index_en.htm

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