Jul 26, 2016

As part of its continuing efforts to proactively address potential toy safety issues, ASTM International Committee F15 on Consumer Products has approved revisions to ASTM F963, Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety. Changes made to the standard include revisions to the section on heavy metals, the introduction of compositing procedures, and new safety requirements and technical guidance for bath toy projections, acoustics and other potential safety hazards in toys.

ASTM F963, under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee F15.22 on Toy Safety, includes guidelines and test methods to prevent injuries from choking, sharp edges and other potential hazards. The standard is reviewed and updated on a regular basis by the subcommittee, which includes technical experts from academia, consumer groups, industry and government.

"These revisions build on the already comprehensive F963 standard by proactively addressing areas where potential risks or opportunities for harmonization have been identified," says Joan Lawrence, F15.22 chairman and vice president, standards and government affairs for the Toy Industry Association (TIA).

Revisions now approved for F963 include the following:

As part of the landmark Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, the U.S. Congress endorsed both the F963 standard and the process under which it wass developed and is continually reviewed and revised. If the CPSC agrees that the revisions improve safety, ASTM F963-11 will replace the 2008 version of the standard as federal law in 180 days from notification of publication. For more information about the CPSIA and compliance with this law, visit the CPSC Web site.

ASTM International standards are available for purchase from Customer Service (phone: 610-832-9585) or at www.astm.org.

CONTACT Technical Information: Joan Lawrence, Toy Industry Association • New York, N.Y. • Phone: 212-675-1141 O ASTM Staff: Leonard Morrissey • Phone: 610-832-9719