As a renowned testing institute, the Hohenstein Institute is expanding its range of services with immediate effect. With accreditation and notification in the product sector of Toys, Hohenstein is now a Notified Body for Toys (Notified Body Number: 0555).

For obvious reasons relating to the protection and safety of children, a toy must comply with strict directives before it can be sold in the EU, the Institute report. All tests and certifications are carried out in accordance with the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and the valid standards.

The manufacturer, in accordance with the European regulations, may only affix the CE marking ("Communauté Européenne" = European Community) to the product if the toy meets the necessary requirements. The manufacturer hereby confirms to the market monitors and the consumers that the toy complies with all applicable European directives.

“As a Notified Body we have expanded our scope and offer services within the framework of the EC type examination certificate,” said Simone Trümper, Division Manager Certification at Hohenstein Laboratories GmbH & Co. KG. Directive 2009/48/EC defines the requirements for general principles as well as specific safety requirements for:

• physical and mechanical characteristics
• flammability
• chemical characteristics
• electrical characteristics
• hygiene
• radioactivity

Besides the obligation to provide proof within the framework of the CE marking, testing and certification also demonstrate clear benefits for manufacturers and importers. On the one hand, the safety of the toy is proven with an EC type examination certificate from an accredited and notified testing and certification body. On the other hand, the liability risk and probability of complaints is reduced due to documented tests in accordance with the valid standards and the applicable directives.

www.hohenstein.com