Guide to UKCA-EN71 Certification for Toys
Introduction
UKCA-EN71 certification is essential for toy manufacturers seeking to enter the UK market. The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark, introduced on January 1, 2021, replaces the CE mark in Great Britain, while EN71 standards ensure toy safety. This guide outlines the importance of UKCA-EN71 certification and the steps to obtain it.
Importance of UKCA-EN71 Certification
UKCA Certification: Serves as a compliance mark for products sold in Great Britain (England, Wales, Scotland), ensuring adherence to UK safety regulations.
EN71 Certification: A rigorous European toy safety standard covering:
Physical and mechanical properties (e.g., no sharp edges or small parts).
Flammability (e.g., fire resistance).
Chemical properties (e.g., limits on heavy metals and hazardous substances).
Together, UKCA-EN71 certification ensures toys are safe for children and compliant with UK market requirements, facilitating market access and consumer trust.
Key Testing Requirements
To achieve UKCA-EN71 certification, toys must pass third-party testing by a UKCA-accredited laboratory. Key EN71 standards include:
EN71-1: Physical and mechanical safety (e.g., choking hazards, sharp edges).
EN71-2: Flammability (e.g., ensuring toys do not ignite easily).
EN71-3: Migration of hazardous elements (e.g., lead, cadmium).
Additional standards (e.g., EN71-9 for organic compounds) may apply based on materials.
How to Obtain UKCA-EN71 Certification
Follow these steps to certify your toys:
Consultation and Application
Contact a UKCA-accredited testing agency (e.g., Huabiao Testing) for guidance.
Submit an application form with product details (e.g., material composition, age group).
Provide 2–3 toy samples for testing.
Quotation and Agreement
The agency determines applicable EN71 standards, testing costs, and timeline (typically 5–10 business days).
Sign the service agreement and make the payment.
Testing Execution
The laboratory tests the toy for compliance with EN71 standards and UKCA requirements, including physical, chemical, and flammability tests.
Additional UKCA-specific checks, such as labeling, are performed.
Technical Documentation and Declaration
Compile a technical file with test reports, risk assessments, and manufacturing details.
Issue a UK Declaration of Conformity, signed by the manufacturer or importer.
Affix the UKCA mark to the toy or its packaging.
Report Issuance
Receive a test report confirming compliance. Retain the technical file and report for 10 years for regulatory audits.
Why Choose Huabiao Testing?
Huabiao Testing offers comprehensive UKCA-EN71 certification solutions with an experienced technical team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our accurate and reliable testing data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and achieve global market success.
