FAQ

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

With increasing global safety requirements for children's products, toy safety standards have become a critical aspect of international trade. EN71 is the EU's safety standard for the migration of harmful chemical substances in toys, serving not only as a legal basis for entering the EU market but also exerting a broad influence on the global toy industry. So, can toys that comply with EN71 standards smoothly enter global markets? Today, the Huabiao Testing team will explain which standards apply to EN71 certification for party decorations and how to obtain EN71 certification for party decorations.

What Standards Apply to EN71 Certification for Party Decorations?

The EU market imposes strict EN71 certification requirements for party decorations, which are categorized into three main types based on product characteristics:

Hanging Decorations (EN71-1/EN71-2 Applicable)

Balloons, ribbons, hanging ornaments, etc.

Focus on suspension strength and small parts hazards.

Tabletop Decorations (EN71-1/EN71-3 Applicable)

Candle holders, table flags, figurines

Emphasis on chemical migration and stability testing.

Interactive Decorations (Full EN71 Testing Required)

Party hats, masks, noise makers

Additional sound pressure testing (EN71-1 Clause 5.11) is required.

How to Obtain EN71 Certification for Party Decorations?

Find a Professional Testing Agency

Choose an accredited and experienced testing agency (e.g., Ningbo Huabiao Testing) and complete the testing application form.

The agency will provide a detailed testing plan and quotation based on product details and testing requirements.

Sign a Testing Contract

Agree on testing scope, timeline, and costs before signing the contract.

Fees depend on factors like testing complexity and sample quantity. For example, additional fees apply for extra chemical hazard tests beyond standard EN71-1, EN71-2, and EN71-3 requirements.

Submit Samples and Payment

Provide samples as specified and pay the testing fees.

Receive Certification

Upon successful testing, obtain the EN71 certification for EU market access.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Expert Team & Advanced Equipment: Ensures precise and efficient testing.

CMA/CNAS Accredited: Internationally recognized test reports.

Comprehensive Solutions: Covers all EN71 testing needs for global compliance.

Risk Management: Helps products meet market requirements for seamless global sales.

Ensure your party decorations meet EU safety standards with Huabiao Testing’s professional EN71 certification services!