USA: Update of the ASTM standard for toys

 

USA has notified its intention to update the toy standard ASTM F963-23.

Section 106 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) made ASTM F963-07e1, Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety, a mandatory consumer product safety standard. Section 106 also provides procedures for revisions to the ASTM F963 standard. In accordance with those procedures, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC or Commission) has allowed the revised standard, ASTM F963-23, to become the mandatory toy standard. This direct final rule incorporates by reference ASTM F963-23 and updates the existing notice of requirements (NOR) that provide the criteria and processes for Commission acceptance of accreditation of third-party conformity assessment bodies for testing to ASTM F963.

The rule is effective on 20 April 2024, unless CPSC receives a significant adverse comment by 20 February 2024. If CPSC receives such a significant adverse comment, it will publish a document in the Federal Register withdrawing this direct final rule before its effective date.

The 2023 version of ASTM F963 outlines the criteria and testing procedures for toys designed for children under 14 years of age. Varied age limits corresponding to specific requirements are specified in this document, aligning with the hazards and the anticipated cognitive or physical capabilities of a child in addressing these hazards.

It is essential to note that this specification does not encompass product performance or quality considerations, except in the context of safety.

Companies should conduct tests in accordance with the latest version of ASTM F963. While testing against the 2023 version is permissible, it attains official status only after notification by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) within 90 days, with mandatory implementation expected 180 days thereafter, projected for mid-April 2024.

The 2023 version of ASTM F963 introduces updates in various areas:

1. Heavy elements in toy substrates
2. Phthalates
3. Acoustics
4. Batteries
5. Expanding materials
6. Labeling requirements
7. Drop test
8. Projectiles
9. Bow and arrow testing

Notable modifications include exemptions for certain materials from routine testing and certification, clarification on phthalate limitations aligning with federal requirements, and refined definitions and testing procedures for acoustics, especially for push or pull toys.

Changes in battery requirements conform to Reese’s law, extending coverage to toys for children over 96 months and introducing fastening mechanisms for battery compartments. Expanding materials criteria have been adjusted to address hazards posed by items that, while not small parts, may cause similar risks.

New federal labeling requirements are incorporated, and the drop test references an updated document. Bow and arrow testing procedures are restructured for improved coherence, including limitations on bowstring stretching to ensure practical relevance and safety during velocity tests. Storage conditions for projectiles were clarified by removing unnecessary notes, aligning with industry standards such as ISO 8124 and EN71.

The full text of the notification of the CPSC can be accessed HERE.

To find out more about toy compliance worldwide, please contact the Product Compliance Institute directly.