WECF position paper: European Toy Safety Directive - Will children really be safe from hazardous chemicals in toys

Position Paper in English, French and German

15.10.2008

Toys bad for children's health? We live under the presumption that toys bought here in Europe are safe for our children. However massive recalls of toys in the EU (of 1,605 recalled producted the highest % were toys in 20071), from reputed producers (Mattel, Fisher-Price, Toys R Us, Disney) show that this is not the case.

Toys we buy in the EU can contain a number of highly toxic chemicals or allergens. 90% of the toys on the EU market are imported. The inspection of these toys is random, and to date no common European labelling system exists that allows parents to make informed choices and avoid toys which can harm their children’s health. WECF's position on the proposal for a new Toy Safety Directive can be read in French, English and German