How does the EN 71-3 standard set limits on heavy metal content?

1. Lead:

EN 71-3 sets a limit value of 0.05% (500 mg/kg) for lead. This is because lead is a heavy metal that is particularly harmful to children, and is potentially harmful to neurological and intellectual development.

 

2. Cadmium:

The EN 71-3 limit value for cadmium is 0.01% (100 mg/kg). Cadmium is also considered a heavy metal that is harmful to children's health and potentially harmful to the kidneys and skeletal system.

 

3. Mercury:

The EN 71-3 limit value for mercury is 0.1% (1000 mg/kg). Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that is potentially harmful to the nervous system and kidney health.

 

In addition to the three heavy metals mentioned above, the EN 71-3 standard also sets limits on the content of a number of other metals, such as hexavalent chromium (Chromium VI), tin (Tin), silver (Silver) and antimony (Antimony).

 

It is important to note that these limits are based on scientific studies and risk assessments to ensure that the levels of heavy metals in children's toys do not pose a risk to children's health. Toys complying with EN 71-3 must be tested and analysed accordingly to ensure that their heavy metal content is within the limit values.

 

It is also worth mentioning that for components and surface materials, the standard may set different limit values for different uses and modes of contact. For example, for oral contact materials, the standard may be more stringent, limiting heavy metals to lower levels.

 

In summary, the EN 71-3 standard ensures that the content of heavy metals in toys is within safe limits by setting specific limit values. This is to protect children from the potential hazards of heavy metals and to promote chemical safety and children's health in the toy industry.

 

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