02 May Ensuring Toy Safety for Children: A Shared Responsibility

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Toys play a vital role in a child’s growth and development. They spark creativity, promote physical coordination, and offer countless hours of enjoyment. However, while toys are meant to be fun and educational, they can also present serious dangers if safety is not prioritized. From small detachable parts to toxic materials, unsafe toys can lead to injuries and even long-term health issues. Making sure toys are safe is a responsibility shared by manufacturers, parents, and regulatory bodies alike.

Potential Dangers of Toys

The most frequent injuries associated with toys include choking, suffocation, cuts, scrapes, eye damage, and chemical exposure. Choking is especially common among infants and toddlers, who tend to put objects into their mouths. Small items or parts that break off can quickly become life-threatening. According to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), hundreds of thousands of injuries related to toys are reported every year, many of which could have been avoided with proper safety measures.

Toxicity is another concern. Some toys, particularly those produced without strict quality control or safety testing, may contain hazardous substances like lead, phthalates, or BPA. These chemicals can affect a child’s development, hormone regulation, and overall health. It’s essential that parents be mindful of what goes into the toys their children play with and look for products that meet safety certifications.

The Role of Industry and Regulations

Manufacturers play a central role in safeguarding toy safety. In many parts of the world, including North America and Europe, there are strict guidelines that companies must follow when producing toys. In the U.S., the ASTM F963 standard outlines detailed requirements for toy safety, and products must comply with it to be legally sold.

These regulations cover aspects such as mechanical strength, absence of sharp edges, flame resistance, and the use of non-toxic materials. Manufacturers are expected to thoroughly test their products and include clear labels indicating the appropriate age range, instructions for use, and necessary warnings. However, despite these standards, unsafe toys do occasionally reach the market, emphasizing the ongoing need for enforcement and consumer awareness.

How Parents Can Help Keep Children Safe

While manufacturers and regulatory agencies work to uphold safety standards, parents and caregivers also have a vital role in protecting children. One of the most effective things a parent can do is select toys that are suitable for their child’s age. Age recommendations are not just about developmental readiness—they also reflect safety considerations, such as the size and complexity of the toy.

Regularly checking toys for signs of damage or wear is equally important. A once-safe toy can become dangerous if parts break off or if it deteriorates over time. Batteries, magnets, and small detachable pieces should be handled with care. Observing how children play with their toys can also provide valuable insights and prevent accidents caused by misuse.

Purchasing toys from trusted brands and retailers is another good practice. Generic or counterfeit toys may not be tested to the same safety standards and could contain unsafe materials. Look for symbols like the CE mark (in Europe) or the ASTM label (in the U.S.) to confirm a toy meets recognized safety criteria.

Final Thoughts

Toy safety is not a matter to be taken lightly. While toys are an essential part of childhood, they must be selected and maintained with care to ensure they do not pose any harm. It takes a concerted effort from manufacturers, regulators, and parents to ensure that children can enjoy their toys safely. With proper precautions and informed decisions, playtime can remain a joyful and secure experience for all.

Infographic provided by Scott Marshall Injury Attorney, one of the top product liability lawyers in Florida

More information:

• US Consumer Product Safety
  https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Phthalates

• Ivanovic N, Milenkovic M, Protic A, Jovanovic V, Djordjevic B, Dodevska M. Phthalate content in toy samples available on the market of the Republic of Serbia. Anal Methods. 2024 Aug 29;16(34):5835-5844. doi: 10.1039/d4ay01092b. PMID: 39145428.
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39145428/

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Last Updated on May 2, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD