Toys, Tested and Trusted: Ensuring Child Safety through Indian Standards on Toys
Parents around the globe share a common concern when it comes to choosing toys for their children –
safety. The potential hazards associated with toys, ranging from choking risks to exposure to harmful
chemicals, underscore the importance of stringent safety regulations.
Development of Indian Standards
Aligned with international benchmarks set by organizations like the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), BIS has developed
comprehensive guidelines covering various aspects of toy safety. These standards encompass
requirements related to physical attributes, chemical composition, and electrical components of toys,
aimed at mitigating risks associated with toy-related injuries and health hazards.
Toys Quality Control Order (QCO)
The regulatory framework for toy safety received a significant boost with the introduction of the Toys
Quality Control Order (QCO) in 2020 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
(DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. This mandate makes it
obligatory for children's toys to adhere to seven specific Indian Standards for safety and display of the ISI
Mark, signifying compliance with BIS regulations. Effective since January 1, 2021, the QCO prohibits the
manufacture, import, sale, or distribution of toys lacking conformity to Indian Standards and the ISI
Mark.
| Sl. No. | Indian Standard | Title |
|---|---|---|
|
1. |
IS 9873 (Part 1):2019 |
Safety of Toys Part 1 Safety Aspects Related to
Mechanical and Physical Properties |
|
2. |
IS 9873 (Part 2): 2017 |
Safety of Toys Part 2 Flammability |
|
3. |
IS 9873 (Part 3): 2020 |
Safety of Toys Part 3 Migration of Certain Elements |
|
5. |
IS 9873 (Part 7): 2017 |
Safety of Toys Part 7 Requirements and Test Methods
for Finger Paints |
|
6. |
IS 9873 (Part 9): 2017 |
Safety of Toys Part 9 Certain Phthalates Esters in Toys
and Children’s Products |
|
7. |
IS 15644: 2006 |
Safety of Electric Toys |
Compliance and Enforcement
Manufacturers operating under BIS licenses are subjected to rigorous testing and inspection protocols to
ensure compliance with safety standards. BIS conducts regular surveillance activities, encompassing
both factory audits and market inspections, to monitor compliance. Through these efforts, BIS aims to
maintain the integrity of the ISI Mark and uphold the safety standards set forth in the Indian Standards
for toys. Over the years, BIS has tested numerous toy samples obtained from manufacturing units and
retail markets, with the majority meeting Indian Standards.
Mandatory BIS Toy Certification: Who Needs It?
Every toy manufacturer, whether domestic or foreign catering to children below the age of 14 is
obligated to obtain the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) toy certification, whether electric or
mechanical, it must bear the ISI mark if it is to be sold in the Indian market.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Toys Quality Control Order (QCO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) play a
crucial role in protecting children's interests by ensuring the safety of toys in the market. With proactive
enforcement and collaboration with the toy industry, BIS strives to foster a safe environment for
producing and selling toys. This provides parents with the confidence they need when buying toys for
their children. As a result, kids can play freely with toys bearing the ISI Mark, knowing they meet strict
safety standards set by BIS.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialistadvice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
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