Astm F963

Designation: F963 − 11 An American National Standard
Standard Consumer Safety Specification for

Toy Safety1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F963; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
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INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this consumer safety specification is to establish nationally recognized safety
requirements for toys. Although this specification will not eliminate the need for the exercise of
parental responsibility in selecting toys appropriate to the age of a child, or parental supervision in
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situations in which children of various ages may have access to the same toys, its application will
minimize accidents in the normal, intended use and reasonably foreseeable abuse of the toys covered
by this specification. This specification was developed originally as a Voluntary Product Standard
under the auspices of the National Bureau of Standards, Department of Commerce, and published in
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1976 (PS 72–76). The present revision is intended to update the safety requirements to include the
following by reference: published federal mandatory requirements, relevant voluntary standards,
certain new requirements for addressing potential hazards, and several technical revisions based on
producer experience with the original standard.
1. Scope
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1.1 This specification relates to possible hazards that may
not be recognized readily by the public and that may be
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struction (sharp edges, exposed mechanisms, etc.) will be
minimized by the application of this specification.
1.3 This specification covers requirements and contains test
encountered in the normal use for which a toy is intended or methods for toys intended for use by children under 14 years of
after reasonably foreseeable abuse. It does not purport to cover age. Different age limits for various requirements will be found
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every conceivable hazard of a particular toy. This specification in this specification. These limits reflect the nature of the
does not cover product performance or quality, except as hazards and expected mental or physical ability, or both, of a
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related to safety. Except for the labeling requirements pointing child to cope with the hazards.
out the functional hazards and age range for which the toy is
intended, this specification has no requirements for those 1.4 Articles not covered by this specification are as follows:
aspects of a toy that present an inherent and recognized hazard Bicycles
as part of the function of the toy. Such an example is a sharp Tricycles
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point necessary for the function of a needle. The needle is an Non-Powered Scooters
inherent hazard that is well understood by the purchaser of a (see Consumer Safety Specification F2264)
toy sewing kit, and this hazard is communicated to the user as Recreational Powered Scooters and Pocket Bikes
part of the normal educational process. (see Consumer Safety Specification F2641)
Sling shots and sharp-pointed darts
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1.2 On the other hand, while a riding toy has inherent Playground equipment
hazards associated with its use (for example, falling off onto Non-powder guns
the sidewalk), the possible hazards associated with its con- Kites
Hobby and craft items in which the finished item is not
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primarily of play value

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This consumer safety specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Commit- Model kits in which the finished item is not primarily of
tee F15 on Consumer Products and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee play value
F15.22 on Toy Safety.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2011. Published December 2011. Originally
Crayons, paints, chalks, and other similar art materials in
approved in 1986. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as F963 – 08. DOI: which the material itself or the finished item is not
10.1520/F0963-11. primarily of play value, except that all art materials,
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Toy Industry Association, Inc. (TIA) sometimes provides its interpretations of whether or not a component of a toy, must comply with
this specification through its counsel as a service to its members and others. The
TIA’s interpretations are not reviewed or approved by ASTM and should be viewed LHAMA, in accordance with 4.29.1 – 4.29.3.
as TIA’s alone. Toy Chests
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Tue May 19 16:45:56 EDT 2015
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Downloaded/printed by
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F963 − 11
Sporting goods, camping goods, athletic equipment, Test Methods for Determination of Heavy Element 8.3
musical instruments, juvenile products, and furniture; Content in Toys, Toy Components and Materials
Tests for Cleanliness and Preservative Effectiveness 8.4
however, toys that are their counterparts are covered. Normal Use Testing 8.5
(It is recognized that there is often a fine line between, Abuse Testing 8.6
for example, a musical instrument or a sporting item Impact Tests 8.7
Torque Tests for Removal of Components 8.8
and its toy counterpart. The intention of the producer Tension Test for Removal of Components 8.9
or distributor, as well as normal use and reasonably Compression Test 8.10
foreseeable abuse, determines whether the item is a Tests for Tire Removal and Snap-in Wheel and
Axle Assembly Removal 8.11
toy counterpart.) Flexure Test 8.12
Powered models of aircraft, rockets, boats, and land Test for Mouth-Actuated Toys 8.13
vehicles; however, toys that are their counterparts are Projectiles 8.14
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Test for Stability of Ride-On Toys 8.15
covered. Stalled Motor Test for Battery-Operated Toys 8.17
Constant air inflatables Tests for Battery-Powered Ride-On Toys 8.18
Tests for Toys which Produce Noise 8.19
1.5 General guidelines for age labeling toys and toy pack- Dynamic Strength Test for Wheeled Ride-On Toys 8.20
aging are contained in Annex A1. Packaging Film Thickness 8.21
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Test for Loops and Cords 8.22
1.6 Information regarding packaging and shipping is con- Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toy Test Methods 8.23
tained in Annex A2. Magnet Test Methods 8.24
Test Methods for Locking Mechanisms or
1.7 This consumer safety specification includes the follow- Other Means 8.25
Identification 9
ing sections:
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Age Grading Guidelines Annex A1
Title Section Packaging and Shipping Annex A2
Scope 1 Design Guidelines for Toys Attached to Cribs
Referenced Documents 2 or Playpens Annex A3
Terminology 3 Design Guidelines for Bath Toy Projections Annex A4
Safety Requirements 4 Flammability Testing Procedure for Solids and Soft Toys Annex A5
Material Quality
Flammability
Toxicology
Electrical/Thermal Energy
Sound Producing Toys
Small Objects
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
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Flammability Testing Procedure for Fabrics
Compositing Procedure for Total Heavy Metal Analysis
Rationale for 2007 Revisions
Annex A6
Annex A7
Annex A8
Annex A9
Annex A10
Accessible Edges 4.7

1.8 The values stated first are to be regarded as the standard.
Projections 4.8 The values given in parentheses are for information only.
Accessible Points 4.9
1.9 The following precautionary statement pertains only to
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Wires or Rods 4.10
Nails and Fasteners 4.11 the test methods portion, Section 8, of this specification:This
Plastic Film 4.12 standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
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Folding Mechanisms and Hinges 4.13

Cords and Elastics in Toys 4.14
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
Stability and Over-Load Requirements 4.15 of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health
Confined Spaces 4.16 practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limita-
Wheels, Tires, and Axles 4.17
Holes, Clearance, and Accessibility of Mechanisms 4.18 tions prior to use.
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Simulated Protective Devices 4.19

Pacifiers 4.20 2. Referenced Documents
Projectile Toys 4.21
Teethers and Teething Toys 4.22 2.1 ASTM Standards:3
Rattles 4.23 D374 Test Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insu-
Squeeze Toys 4.24
lation (Withdrawn 2013)4
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Battery-Operated Toys 4.25

Toys Intended to be Attached to a Crib D642 Test Method for Determining Compressive Resistance
or Playpen 4.26
Stuffed and Beanbag-Type Toys 4.27
of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads
Stroller and Carriage Toys 4.28 D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Contain-
Art Materials 4.29 ers and Systems
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Toy Gun Marking 4.30

Balloons 4.31
D999 Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Con-
Certain Toys with Nearly Spherical Ends 4.32 tainers
Marbles 4.33 D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
Balls 4.34
Pompoms 4.35
D2240 Test Method for Rubber Property—Durometer Hard-
Hemispheric-Shaped Objects 4.36 ness
Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toys 4.37
Magnets 4.38
Jaw Entrapment in Handles and Steering Wheels 4.39
Safety Labeling Requirements 5 3
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Instructional Literature 6 contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Producer’s Markings 7 Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Test Methods 8 the ASTM website.
General 8.1 4
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
Testing for Hazardous Substance Content 8.2 www.astm.org.
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F963 − 11
D3421 Recommended Practice for Extraction and Determi- 16 CFR 1500.44 Method for determining extremely flam-
nation of Plasticizer Mixtures from Vinyl Chloride Plas- mable and flammable solids
tics (Withdrawn 1986)4 16 CFR 1500.47 Method for determining the sound pressure
D4236 Practice for Labeling Art Materials for Chronic level produced by toy caps
Health Hazards 16 CFR 1500.48 Technical requirements for determining a
D5276 Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by sharp point in toys and other articles intended for use by
Free Fall children under 8 years of age
F404 Consumer Safety Specification for High Chairs 16 CFR 1500.49 Technical requirements for determining a
F406 Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Full-Size sharp metal or glass edge in toys and other articles
Baby Cribs/Play Yards intended for use by children under 8 years of age
F834 Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Chests 16 CFR 1500.50-53 Test method for simulating use and
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F1313 Specification for Volatile N-Nitrosamine Levels in abuse of toys and other articles intended for use by
Rubber Nipples on Pacifiers children
F1148 Consumer Safety Performance Specification for 16 CFR 1500.83 Exemptions for small packages, minor
Home Playground Equipment hazards, and special circumstances
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F2264 Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Powered 16 CFR 1500.85 Exemptions from classification as banned
Scooters hazardous substances
F2641 Consumer Safety Specification for Recreational Pow- 16 CFR 1500.86 Exemptions from classification as a banned
ered Scooters and Pocket Bikes toy or other banned article for use by children
F2853 Test Method for Determination of Lead in Paint 16 CFR 1500.87 Children’s products containing lead: inac-
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Layers and Similar Coatings or in Substrates and Homog- cessible component parts
enous Materials by Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluores- 16 CFR 1500.88 Exemptions from lead limits under section
cence Spectrometry Using Multiple Monochromatic Ex- 101 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act for
citation Beams certain electronic devices
F2923 Specification for Consumer Product Safety for Chil-
dren’s Jewelry
2.2 ANSI Standards:5
C18.1 American National Standard for Dry Cells and
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16 CFR 1500.91 Determinations regarding lead content for
certain materials or products under section 101 of the
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act
16 CFR 1501 Method for Identifying Toys and Other Ar-
Batteries—Specifications ticles Intended for Use by Children Under 3 Years of Age
S1.4 Specification for Sound Level Meters which Present Choking, Aspiration, or Ingestion Hazards
Z315.1 Safety Requirements for Tricycles Because of Small Parts
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2.3 European Standards:6 16 CFR 1505 Requirements for Electrically Operated Toys
EN 71-1 Safety of toys - Part 1: Mechanical and physical or Other Electrically Operated Articles Intended for Use
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properties by Children
EN 71-3 Safety of toys - Part 3: Migration of certain 16 CFR 1510 Requirements for Rattles
elements 16 CFR 1511 Requirements for Pacifiers
16 CFR 1610 Standard for Flammability of Clothing Tex-
2.4 Federal Standards:7
tiles
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15 CFR 1150 Marking of Toys, Look-Alike and Imitation

21 CFR 110 Current Good Manufacturing Practice in
Firearms
Manufacturing, Processing, Packaging, or Holding Hu-
16 CFR 1303 Ban of Lead-Containing Paint and Certain
man Food
Consumer Products Bearing Lead Containing Paint
21 CFR 170-189 Food for Human Consumption
16 CFR 1500 Hazardous Substances Act Regulations, in-
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21 CFR 700-740 Requirements for Specific Cosmetic Prod-

cluding the following sections:
ucts
16 CFR 1500.3 (c) (6) (vi) Definition of “flammable solid”
21 CFR 73, 74, 81, 82 Color Additives
16 CFR 1500.14 Products requiring special labeling under
49 CFR 173.100, 109 Definition of Class C Explosives
section 3(b) of the act
CPSC-CH-E1001-08.1 Standard Operating Procedure for
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16 CFR 1500.18 Banned toys and other banned articles

Determining Total Lead (Pb) in Metal Children’s Products
intended for use by children
(including Children’s Metal Jewelry)8
16 CFR 1500.19 Misbranded toys and other articles intended
CPSC-CH-E1002-08.1 Standard Operating Procedure for
for use by children
Determining Total Lead (Pb) in Non-Metal Children’s
Products8
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Electronic copy available from American National Standards Institute website:
CPSC-CH-E1003-09 Standard Operating Procedure for De-
www.ansi.org; hard copies from Global Engineering Documents, 15 Inverness Way termining Lead (Pb) in Paint and Other Similar Surface
East, Englewood, CO 80112. Coatings8
6
Available from European Committee for Standardization (CEN), Avenue
Marnix 17, B-1000, Brussels, Belgium, http://www.cen.eu.
7
Available from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website:
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www.cpsc.gov or U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of Documents; Available from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 4330 East
P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954; website: www.gpo.gov West Hwy., Bethesda, MD 20814, http://www.cpsc.gov.
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F963 − 11
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FIG. 1 Accessibility Probes
CPSC-CH-E1004-11 Standard Operating Procedure for De- IEC 60086–2 Primary Batteries: Physical and Electrical
termining Cadmium (Cd) Extractability from Children’s
Metal Jewelry8
SS-T-312B Tile, Floor: Asphalt, Rubber, Vinyl, VinylAsbes-
tos9
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Specifications
IEC 61672–1 Electroacoustics—Sound Level Meters—Part
1: Specifications
IEC 61672–2 Electroacoustics—Sound Level Meters—Part
Voluntary Product Standard PS 72-76 Toy Safety10 2: Pattern Evaluation Tests
2.5 ISO and IEC Standards:11
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ISO 3696 Water for analytical laboratory use — Specifica- 3. Terminology
tion and test methods
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
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ISO 3746:1995 Acoustics—Determination of Sound Power

Levels of Noise Sources Using Sound Pressure—Survey 3.1.1 A-weighted sound pressure level (LpA) —the sound
Method Using an Enveloping Measurement Surface Over pressure level obtained by using standardized A-weighting.
a Reflecting Plane 3.1.2 accessible—(part or component) describing any area
ISO 7779 Acoustics–Measurement of Airborne Noise Emit- of the toy that can be contacted by any portion forward of the
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ted by Computer and Business Equipment collar of the accessibility probe as described in 16 CFR
ISO 8124-1 Safety of toys – Part 1: Safety aspects related to 1500.48 and 16 CFR 1500.49. (See Fig. 1.)
mechanical and physical properties
ISO 8124-3 Safety of toys – Part 3: Migration of certain NOTE 1—Dimensions are provided in Fig. 1 for two probes correspond-
ing to two age ranges of children.
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elements
ISO 11202 Acoustics—Noise Emitted by Machinery and 3.1.3 alkaline battery—a non-rechargeable dry cell battery
Equipment—Measurement of Emission Sound Pressure with an alkaline manganese electrochemistry.
Levels at a Work Station and at Other Specified
3.1.4 aquatic toy—an article, whether inflatable or not,
Positions—Survey Method in situ
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intended to bear the mass of a child and used as an instrument

ISO 11204 Acoustics—Noise Emitted by Machinery and
of play in shallow water. This does not include bath toys, beach
Equipment—Measurement of Emission Sound Pressure
balls, and United States Coast Guard-approved life saving
Levels at a Work Station and at Other Specified
Positions—Method Requiring Environmental Corrections devices.
3.1.5 art material—any substance marketed or represented
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by the producer or repackager as suitable for use in any phase
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents,
732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
of the creation of any work of visual or graphic art of any
www.access.gpo.gov. medium. This definition includes items that become a compo-
10
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of nent of the work of art such as paint, canvas, inks, crayons,
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, chalk, solder, brazing rods, flux, paper, clay, stone, thread,
http://www.access.gpo.gov.
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Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de cloth, and photographic film. It also includes items that are
Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iso.ch. associated closely with the creation of the final work of art such
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F963 − 11
as brushes, brush cleaners, solvents, ceramic kilns, silk screens, applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promot-
molds, mold making material, and photographic developing ing or enhancing attractiveness, or for altering appearance.
chemicals. 3.1.20 crushing—injury to part of the body resulting from
3.1.6 ball—any spherical, ovoid, or ellipsoidal object that is compression between two rigid surfaces.
designed or intended to be thrown, hit, kicked, rolled, dropped, 3.1.21 curled edge—an edge in which the portion of the
or bounced. The term “ball” includes any spherical, ovoid, or sheet adjacent to the edge is bent into an arc and forms an angle
ellipsoidal object that is attached to a toy or article by means of of less than 90° with the base sheet, as shown in Fig. 2.
string, elastic cord, or similar tether. The term “ball” also
3.1.22 detection limit of a method—three times the standard
includes any multisided object formed by connecting planes
deviation of the blank value.
into a generally spherical ovoid, or ellipsoidal shape that is
3.1.23 discharge mechanism—an inanimate system for re-
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designated or intended to be used as a ball. The term “ball”
does not include dice, or balls permanently enclosed inside leasing and propelling a projectile.
pinball machines, mazes, or similar outer containers. A ball is 3.1.24 driving mechanism—assembly of linked parts or
permanently enclosed if, when tested in accordance with 16 components (for example, gears, belts, winding mechanisms),
CFR 1500.53, it is not removed from the outer container. at least one of which moves, powered by a source (for example,
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3.1.7 base material—material upon which coatings may be electrical or mechanical means) independent of the child.
formed or deposited. 3.1.25 edge, hazardous—an accessible edge that presents an
3.1.8 battery-operated toy—toy having at least one function unreasonable risk of injury during the normal use and reason-
dependent on electricity and powered by batteries. ably foreseeable abuse of a toy. Metal and glass edges on toys
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intended for children under the age of eight years are defined
3.1.9 burr—a roughness that may be found at an edge or
as potentially hazardous if they fail the sharp edge test
joint of a toy or component if the material is not severed or
described in 16 CFR 1500.49. Edges other than metal and glass
finished cleanly.
are defined as potentially hazardous if they are sharp to the
3.1.10 button cell battery—a battery having a diameter touch under casual handling conditions.
greater than its height.
3.1.11 C-weighted peak sound pressure level (LCpeak )—the
peak sound pressure level obtained when using standardized
C-weighting.
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3.1.26 elastic—material that will recover its former size and
shape essentially and instantaneously after being elongated at
least 10 % at a testing speed of not less than 20 in. (510
mm)/min.
3.1.12 close-to-the-ear toy—a toy that is intended to be used 3.1.27 equivalent sound pressure level (LAeq) —the level of
close to the ear, that is, the sound emitting part of such a toy is a steady-state sound which, in a stated time period and at a
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normally put against the ear of a child (example—toy tele- stated location, has the same A-weighted sound energy as the
phones that emit sounds from the earpiece). time-varying sound.
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3.1.13 coating—all layers of material formed or deposited 3.1.28 explosive action—the sudden release of energy char-
on the base material or toy and includes paints, varnishes, acterized by the rapid expansion or bursting of a material.
lacquers, or other substances of a similar nature, whether they
3.1.29 extension spring—spring which essentially returns to
contain metallic particles or not, which can be removed by
its initial state after tension.
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scraping with a sharp blade as defined under 16 CFR 1303, et

seq. 3.1.30 fastener—mechanical device which attaches two or
more elements together (for example, screws, rivets, and
3.1.14 collapse—sudden or unexpected folding of a struc- staples).
ture.
3.1.31 feathering—the beveling of an edge (or decrease in
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3.1.15 compression spring—spring which essentially re- thickness moving toward the edge) caused during the shearing
turns to its initial state after compression. or cutting of material.
3.1.16 constant air inflatables—structure relying on a con- 3.1.32 flash—excess material that escapes between the mat-
tinuous supply of air pressure supplied from one or more ing parts of a mold assembly.
electrical blowers to maintain its shape, typically made of
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flexible fabric and designed for children’s use that may include 3.1.33 folding mechanism—an assembly of hinged, pivoted,
but not be limited to the following activities: bounce, climb, folding, or sliding members that can produce a crushing,
slide, or interactive play. scissoring, pinching, or shearing action during operation.
3.1.17 continuous sound—any steady-state sound or group 3.1.34 fuzz—bits of fibrous-type material that can be readily
of variable sounds greater than one second in duration. removed from toys with a pile surface.
3.1.18 cord—a length of slender, flexible material including
monofilaments, woven and twisted cord, rope, plastic textile
tapes, ribbon, and those fibrous materials commonly called
string.
3.1.19 cosmetics—any article intended or likely to be
rubbed, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced onto, or otherwise FIG. 2 Curled Edge
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F963 − 11
3.1.35 hand-held toy—a toy that is intended to be used or
operated while being held in the hand. Examples include toy
tools, small electronic games, stuffed animals, dolls, musical FIG. 4 Hemmed Edge
toys, and cap-firing toys.
3.1.36 hazard—any characteristic of a toy that presents an
unreasonable risk of injury or illness during normal use or as a
result of reasonably foreseeable abuse. and strollers, changing tables, full size cribs, gates and
enclosures, handheld infant carriers, high chairs, infant
3.1.37 hazardous magnet—a magnet which has a flux index
bouncers, infant swings, play yards/non-full size cribs, portable
>50 (refer to test method in 8.24.1) and which is a small object
bed rails, portable hook-on chairs, soft infant carriers, station-
(refer to 4.6 and Fig. 3).
ary activity centers, toddler beds and walkers.
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3.1.38 hazardous magnet component—any part of a toy that
3.1.44 lap joint—a joint in which an edge overlaps a parallel
is a small object (refer to 4.6 and Fig. 3) and which contains an
surface but is not necessarily attached to it mechanically at all
attached or imbedded magnet which has a flux index >50 as
points along the length, as in the examples shown in Fig. 6.
determined in accordance with the test method in 8.24.1.
3.1.45 large and bulky toy—toy that has a projected base
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3.1.39 helical spring—spring in the form of a coil.
area of more than 400 in.2 (0.26 m2) or a volume of more than
3.1.40 hemmed edge—an edge in which the portion of the 3 ft3 (0.08 m3) calculated without regard to minor appendages.
sheet adjacent to the edge is folded back on the sheet itself
NOTE 2—The base area for toys having permanently attached legs is
through an angle of approximately 180°, so that the portion of
measured by calculating the area enclosed by straight lines connecting the
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the sheet adjacent to the edge is approximately parallel to the outermost edge of each leg of the perimeter.
main sheet, as shown in Fig. 4.
3.1.46 latex balloon—any toy or decorative item consisting
3.1.41 hinge-line clearance—the distance between the sta- of a latex bag that is designed to be inflated by air or gas. The
tionary portion of a toy and the movable portion along, or term does not include inflatable children’s toys that are used in
adjacent to, a line projected through the axis of rotation, shown
as Dimension A in Fig. 5.
3.1.42 impulsive sound—any sound that is characterized by
a brief excursion of sound pressure significantly exceeding the
ambient noise, typically less than one second in duration.
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aquatic activities such as rafts, water wings, swim rings, or
other similar items.
3.1.47 marble—a sphere made of a hard material, such as
glass, agate, marble, or plastic, that is used in various chil-
dren’s games, generally as a playing piece or marker. The term
3.1.43 juvenile products—consumer products designed or “marble” does not include a marble permanently enclosed in a
intended primarily for use by children which are not used toy or game. A marble is permanently enclosed if, when tested
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primarily for play. These include, but are not limited to, items in accordance with 16 CFR 1500.53, it is not removed from the
such as bassinets/cradles, bath seats, infant bath tubs, carriages toy or game.
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3.1.48 materials intended to leave a trace—graphite mate-

rial in pencils, liquid in pens, and similar substances.
3.1.49 maximum A-weighted sound pressure level
(LAFmax)—the maximum sound pressure level obtained when
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using standardized A-weighting and fast detector response

(time-weighting).
3.1.50 non-replaceable battery—an electrochemical device
that will not require user accessibility or user replacement for
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the expected life of the product or devices it is intended to

power. Such batteries will not be accessible when tested in
accordance with the normal use and, where appropriate,
reasonably foreseeable abuse tests of 8.6 through 8.10.
3.1.51 normal use—play modes that conform to the instruc-
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tions accompanying the toy, that have been established by

tradition or custom, or that are evident from an examination of
the toy.
3.1.52 other materials, whether mass colored or not—
materials such as wood, leather, and other porous substances
which may absorb coloring matter without forming a coating.
3.1.53 packaging—material accompanying the toy when
purchased, but having no intended play function.
3.1.54 peak sound pressure level (LCpk) —the greatest
C-weighted instantaneous sound pressure level within the
FIG. 3 Small Parts Cylinder period of observation.
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FIG. 5 Changing Clearance at Hinge Line
3.1.61 protective cap or cover—a component that is at-

tached to a potentially hazardous edge or projection to reduce
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the possibility of injury.
3.1.62 protective tip—a component that is attached to the
impacting end of a projectile to minimize injury if it should
impact on the body, and also to prevent damage to the
projectile upon striking a target, provide a means of attaching
FIG. 6 Typical Lap Joints
the projectile to the target as in the case of suction cups, or
prevent damage to inanimate objects.
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3.1.55 pinching—created when two moving or one moving 3.1.63 rattle—a toy that is clearly designed to emit sound
and one fixed surface come together in such a way that they when shaken typically intended for children under 18 months.
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could entrap and compress flesh, usually resulting in a contu- 3.1.64 reasonably foreseeable abuse—conditions to which a
sion or laceration. child may subject a toy that are not normal use conditions, such
3.1.56 point, hazardous—an accessible point that presents as deliberate disassembly, dropping, or using the toy for a
an unreasonable risk of injury during normal use or reasonably purpose for which it was not intended. Simulated use and abuse
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foreseeable abuse. Points on toys intended for children under tests for toys are given in 16 CFR 1500.50-53 (excluding the
the age of 8 years are potentially hazardous if they fail the bite test, Paragraph (c), of each section).
sharp point test described in 16 CFR 1500.48. 3.1.65 reference box—a hypothetical surface which is the
3.1.57 pompom—lengths or strands of fiber, yarns, or smallest rectangular parallelepiped that encloses the toy with-
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threads clamped or secured and tied in the center, and brushed out regard to minor appendages.
up to form a spherical shape. Also included are spherical- 3.1.66 rigid—any material having a hardness exceeding 70
shaped attachments made of stuffed material. Shore A scale durometer, as measured by the latest revision of
3.1.58 principal display panel—the display panel for a retail Test Method D2240.
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package or container, bin, or vending machine that is most 3.1.67 rolled edge—an edge in which the portion of the
likely to be displayed, shown, presented, or examined under sheet adjacent to the edge is bent into an arc and forms an angle
normal or customary conditions of display for retail sale. between 90 and 120° with the main sheet, as shown in Fig. 7.
3.1.59 projectile—an object propelled by means of a dis- 3.1.68 scraping—mechanical removal of coatings down to
charge mechanism capable of storing and releasing energy the base material without damaging the substrate material.
under the control of the operator.
3.1.60 projection, hazardous—a projection that, because of
its material or configuration, or both, may present a puncture
hazard if a child should fall onto it. Excluded from this
definition are puncture hazards to the eyes or mouth, or both,
because of the impossibility of eliminating puncture hazards to
those areas of the body by product design. FIG. 7 Rolled Edge
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3.1.69 simulated protective equipment—toys designed to the finger, and a flexible object on the other end intended to be
mimic products that infer some sort of physical protection to thrown and returned to the hand.
the wearer (for example, protective helmets and visors).
3.1.70 soft-filled toy/stuffed toy—toy, clothed or unclothed, 4. Safety Requirements
with soft body surfaces and filled with soft materials, allowing 4.1 Material Quality—Toys may be made from new or
compression of the torso readily with the hand. reprocessed materials and shall be visually clean and free from
3.1.71 splinter—sharp pointed fragment. infestation. The materials shall be assessed visually by the
unaided eye rather than under magnification. If reprocessed
3.1.72 spiral spring—clockwork-type spring. materials are used, they must be refined so that the level of
3.1.73 squeeze toy—a handheld pliable toy, intended for hazardous substances conforms to the requirements of 4.3.1.
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children under the age of 18 months, usually incorporating a 4.2 Flammability—Materials other than textiles (excluding
noise-making feature activated by forcing air through an paper) used in toys shall not be flammable, as defined under 16
opening when flexed or squeezed, and which recovers to its CFR 1500.3 (c) (6) (vi) under the Federal Hazardous Sub-
original shape when released. stances Act (FHSA) (see 16 CFR 1500). For testing purposes,
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3.1.74 steady-state sound (noise)—noise in which there are any textile fabrics used in toys shall comply with 16 CFR 1610.
negligibly small fluctuations of sound pressure level within the A test procedure for testing flammability of toys, which is an
period of observation. interpretation of 16 CFR 1500.44, is contained in Annex A5. A
3.1.75 strap—a piece of flexible material in which the width procedure for testing the flammability of fabrics is contained in
Annex A6.
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is significantly greater than the thickness.
3.1.76 substrate material—all of the accessible materials 4.3 Toxicology:
present in toys, other than paint or similar surface coatings. 4.3.1 Hazardous Substances—Toys or materials used in toys
shall conform to the FHSA and to the regulations promulgated
3.1.77 tabletop, floor, and crib toy—toys intended to be under that act. Exemptions to this act for certain types of toys
played with while attached to or resting on a table top, floor, or
crib. Examples of such toys include, but are not limited to, toy
vehicles, stacking toys, large and bulky toys, games, and
activity toys that attach to crib rails.
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are given in 16 CFR 1500.85. The regulations define limits for
substances that are toxic, corrosive, an irritant, sensitizer or
pressure generating, and radioactive, flammable, and combus-
tible materials. Testing references for hazardous substance
3.1.78 tangle or form a loop—loops that are formed by content are given in 8.2. It should be noted that specific states
reasonably foreseeable manipulation of the cord/strap/elastic. may have hazardous substances regulations that are more
restrictive than the Federal regulations.
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Loops that are formed by excessive or intricate manipulations,
or both, of the cord/strap/elastic shall be considered as exempt. 4.3.2 Manufacturing and Packaging of Food—All food
products supplied with toys shall be manufactured and pack-
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3.1.79 teether—toy designed for oral use and intended

primarily for symptomatic relief of teething discomfort. aged in compliance with 21 CFR 110, which is concerned with
the sanitation practices for the manufacture, processing,
3.1.80 tool—screwdriver, coin, or other object which may packaging, or holding of human food.
be used to operate a screw, clip, or similar fixing device. 4.3.3 Indirect Food Additives—Toy components intended to
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3.1.81 toy—any object designed, manufactured, or marketed be used in contact with food, such as toy cooking utensils, shall
as a plaything for children under 14 years of age. conform to the applicable requirements of the Food, Drug and
3.1.82 toy chest—toy boxes that are designed and marketed Cosmetic Act (FDCA), specifically 21 CFR 170 through 189.
as storage containers for toys. The products subject to the 4.3.3.1 Toys in Contact with Food—Toys comprising com-
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requirements are those with a volume of 1.1 ft3 (0.031 m3) or ponents intended to be used in contact with food, such as toy
more. cooking utensils and toy tableware shall meet the requirements
of 6.7 for instructional literature.
3.1.83 toy seat—a stationary toy product with a seat where 4.3.3.2 Ceramicware, Lead, and Cadmium
the amusement of the child is a primary function of the product Contamination—Ceramic toy components intended or likely to
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and the play pattern intends that the child be in a seated hold food, such as a porcelain tea set, shall conform to the
position. applicable requirements of the FDCA, Section 402 (a) (2) (c),
3.1.83.1 Discussion—Play features may include, but are not and FDA Compliance Policy Guides.
limited to, sliding or rotating features, learning toys, manually 4.3.4 Cosmetics—Cosmetics shall conform to the require-
actuated music etc. with which the seated child may interact. ments of the Federal FDCA as codified in 21 CFR. The
Children’s furniture products without any interactive play regulations applicable to cosmetics are stated in 21 CFR 700
features such as stools, chairs, patio sets, rocking chairs, picnic through 740. The color additive regulations applicable to
tables, storage units etc. are not considered toy seats. In cosmetics are found in 21 CFR 73, 74, 81, and 82.
addition, juvenile products such as bouncers, infant seats, 4.3.4.1 In addition, cosmetics intended for use by children
stationary activity centers etc. are not considered toy seats. under 8 years of age shall meet all requirements of this
3.1.84 yo yo elastic tether toy—a toy consisting of an elastic specification and the FHSA regulations, notwithstanding the
tether that usually contains a loop on one end to wear around exclusions of 16 CFR 1500.81 and 1500.3 (b) (4) (ii).
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F963 − 11
4.3.4.2 The requirements from the Food and Drug Admin- (c) Packaging materials are not subject to these requirements
istration (FDA) will therefore be additive to those existing for unless they are intended to be retained as part of the toy or are
children’s products. intended to provide play value.
4.3.5 Heavy Elements: (d) This requirement is not intended to apply to children’s
4.3.5.1 Paint and Similar Surface-Coating Materials—Paint jewelry, which is addressed by Specification F2923.
and other similar surface-coating materials applied to toys shall (e) In addition, materials now or in future listed in the most
comply with the lead content provisions of 16 CFR 1303, current revision of 16 CFR 1500.88 or 16 CFR 1500.91 as
issued under the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA), as exempt from testing and certification requirements are ex-
amended by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of cluded from this requirement for the purposes of determining
2008 (CPSIA). compliance.
(1) This regulation prohibits the use of paints or similar (2)Requirements:
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surface-coating materials that contain lead or lead compounds (a) Accessible component parts of children’s products (as
and in which the lead content (calculated as lead metal [Pb]) is defined in 3.1.2 and in 16 CFR 1500.87, before and after use
in excess of 0.009 % (90 ppm) of the weight of the total and abuse testing described in 8.4 – 8.9 and in 16 CFR
nonvolatile content of the paint or the weight of the dried paint 1500.50-53 and 16 CFR 1500.87) must not contain lead or lead
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film. compounds in which the lead content (calculated as lead metal
(2) In addition, surface-coating materials shall not contain [Pb]) is in excess of 100 ppm (300 ppm for products manu-
compounds of antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chro- factured or imported prior to August 14, 2011) of the weight of
mium. lead, mercury. or selenium, of which the metal content the component, except as provided under 16 CFR 1500.88 and
of the soluble material is in excess of the levels by weight of 16 CFR 1500.91.
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the contained solids (including pigments, film solids, and (b) The migration of elements from toys and parts of toys as
driers) given in Table 1. The analytical results obtained should specified in 4.3.5.2(1) shall not exceed the limits specified in
be adjusted in accordance with the test method in 8.3.4.3 prior Table 1 when tested in accordance with the methods set forth
to comparing them to the values in Table 1. To determine in 8.3. Modeling clays included as part of a toy shall not exceed
conformance, the soluble level shall be determined by dissolv-
ing the contained solids (dried film including pigments, film
solids, and driers) as specified in 8.3.2.
4.3.5.2 Toy Substrate Materials—These requirements are
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the limits specified in Table 2 when tested in accordance with
the methods set forth in 8.3. Please note that the limits in Table
2 apply only to these materials as a component of a toy; in
addition, please also note that if the primary purpose of the
designed to reduce children’s exposure to heavy elements material is to create a tangible work of art, it may in addition
contained in accessible toy substrate materials. (For require- be subject to the requirements of 16 CFR 1500.14.
ments for surface coating materials, see 4.3.5.1.) (c) In addition, metallic toys or metallic toy components
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(1)Scope—This section specifies requirements and test meth- which are small parts may not exhibit extraction of more than
ods for total lead and the migration of antimony, arsenic, lead, 200 µg of cadmium when tested per 8.3.5.5(3). Compliance
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barium, cadmium, chromium, mercury and selenium in acces- with all of the above requirements may be established by a
sible substrate materials. Accessible glass, metal and ceramic screen of total element content as specified in 8.3.1.
toys or parts of toys, that are small parts (that is, that fit into the 4.3.6 Cosmetics, Liquids, Pastes, Putties, Gels, and
test fixture specified at 16 CFR 1501 (see Fig. 3), are also Powders—The purpose of this requirement is to minimize the
subject to this requirement. risk associated with the lack of cleanliness, shelf life, and
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(a) Accessibility of parts shall be determined as defined in contamination of cosmetics, liquids, pastes, putties, gels, and
3.1.2 before and after use and abuse testing described in 8.4 – powders used in toys (excluding art materials). It sets standards
8.9. for cleanliness and the ability to withstand extended shelf life
(b) Toys and parts of toys which, due to their inaccessibility, or contamination, or both, during use without microbiological
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size, mass, function, or other characteristics, cannot be sucked, degradation.

mouthed or ingested are not subject to this requirement. 4.3.6.1 Water used in the manufacturing and filling of toys
NOTE 3—For the purposes of this requirement, the following criteria are
shall be prepared according to the bacteriological standards for
considered reasonably appropriate for the classification of toys or parts USP Purified Water. (Warning—The various methods for
producing purified water each present different potentials for
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likely to be sucked, mouthed or ingested: (1) All toy parts intended to be

mouthed or contact food or drink, components of toys which are contaminating the final product. Purified water produced by
cosmetics, and components of writing instruments categorized as toys; (2) distillation is sterile, provided that the production equipment is
Toys intended for children less than 6 years of age, that is, all accessible
parts and components where there is a probability that those parts and
suitable and sterile. On the other hand, ion-exchange columns
components may come into contact with the mouth. and reverse osmosis units require special attention in that they
TABLE 1 Maximum Soluble Migrated Element in ppm (mg/kg) for

Surface Coatings and Substrates Other Than Modeling Clay TABLE 2 Maximum Soluble Migrated Element in ppm (mg/kg) for
Included as Part of a Toy Modeling Clays Included as Part of a Toy
Antimony, Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Selenium, Antimony, Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Selenium,
(Sb) (As) (Ba) (Cd) (Cr) (Pb) (Hg) (Se) (Sb) (As) (Ba) (Cd) (Cr) (Pb) (Hg) (Se)
60 25 1000 75 60 90 60 500 60 25 250 50 25 90 25 500
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afford sites for microorganisms to foul the system and con- 4.5.1 Requirements—When tested in accordance with 8.19,
taminate the effluent. Frequent monitoring may thus be called toys that are designed to emit sound shall conform to the
for, particularly with the use of these units following periods of following requirements:
shutdown of more than a few hours.) 4.5.1.1 The A-weighted equivalent sound pressure level,
4.3.6.2 The formulations of these products used in toys shall LAeq, of continuous sounds produced by close to the ear toys
be such that they are not subject to microbial degradation shall not exceed 65 dB.
during shelf life or reasonably foreseeable use. 4.5.1.2 The A-weighted equivalent sound pressure level,
4.3.6.3 The cleanliness of these products used in toys and LAeq, of continuous sounds produced by all other toys except
their ingredients shall be determined in accordance with 8.4.1. close-to-the-ear toys and push/pull toys shall not exceed 85 dB.
Formulations used to prevent microbial degradation shall be 4.5.1.3 The C-weighted peak sound pressure level, LCpeak,
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evaluated in accordance with 8.4.2. of impulsive sounds produced by close to the ear toys shall not
4.3.6.4 Formulations of cosmetics shall be evaluated for exceed 95 dB.
potential microbiological degradation in accordance with 8.4.2. 4.5.1.4 The C-weighted peak sound pressure level, LCpeak,
4.3.7 Stuffıng Materials—Loose fillers for stuffed toys shall of impulsive sounds produced by any type of toy excluding
be free of objectionable matter originating from insect, bird, toys using explosive action (for example, percussion caps)
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rodent, or other animal infestation and of contaminants, such as shall not exceed 115 dB.
splinters and metal chips to the extent possible in good 4.5.1.5 The C-weighted peak sound pressure level, LCpeak,
manufacturing practice. The test methods that shall be used to of impulsive sounds produced by a toy using percussion caps
determine objectionable material are in Chapter 16 of Offıcial or other explosive action shall not exceed 125 dB.
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Methods of Analysis of the Association of Offıcial Analytical
Chemists.12 In addition, fiber filling, whether natural or 4.6 Small Objects—These requirements are intended to
synthetic, should meet the requirements of Title 34, Chapter minimize the hazards from choking, ingestion, or inhalation to
47, Section 47.317, “Tolerances of the Commonwealth of children under 36 months of age created by small objects.
Pennsylvania Regulation for Stuffed Toys.” 4.6.1 Toys that are intended for children under 36 months of
4.3.8 DEHP (DOP)—Pacifiers, rattles, and teethers shall not
intentionally contain DI (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (also known
as dioctyl phthalate). To prevent trace amounts of DEHP
(DOP) from affecting analysis, up to 3 % of total solid content
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age are subject to the requirements of 16 CFR 1501. Criteria
for determining which toys are subject to these requirements
are provided, in part, in 16 CFR 1500.50 and 1501 and also in
Annex A1 of this specification. The requirements of 16 CFR
will be accepted in the result, when tested in accordance with 1501 state, in part, that no toy (including removable, liberated
Practice D3421. components, or fragments of toys) shall be small enough
without being compressed to fit entirely within a cylinder of the
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4.4 Electrical/Thermal Energy—Toys operating from nomi- specified dimensions as shown in Fig. 3. For the purposes of
nal 120-V branch circuits shall conform to 16 CFR 1505, this specification, fragments of toys include, but are not limited
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issued under the FHSA. to, pieces of flash, slivers of plastics, pieces of foam, or fine
4.5 Sound-Producing Toys—These requirements are in- bits or shavings. Pieces of paper, fabric, yarn, fuzz, elastic, and
tended to minimize the possibility of hearing damage that string are excluded from this requirement.
might be caused by toys that are designed to produce sound. 4.6.1.1 The requirements are applicable before and after use
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These requirements are applicable before and after testing in and abuse testing in accordance with Section 8 to determine the
accordance with 8.5 through 8.10. These requirements do not accessibility of small objects such as small toys or components
apply to: (1) sounds produced by mouth-actuated toys where of toys including eyes, squeakers, or knobs, or pieces that
the sound pressure level is determined by the blowing action of break off or are removed from toys.
4.6.1.2 The following articles are exempt from the require-
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the child; (2) child-actuated sounds such as those produced by

xylophones, bells, drums, and squeeze toys where the sound ments: balloons; books and other paper articles; writing mate-
pressure level is determined by the muscular action of the rials (crayons, chalk, pencils, and pens); phonograph records
child. The continuous sound pressure requirements do not and compact discs (CDs); modeling clay and similar products;
apply to rattles; however, rattles are covered by impulsive and fingerpaints, watercolors, and other paint sets. A listing of
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sound pressure requirements; (3) radios, tape players, CD exempt articles is provided in 16 CFR 1501.3.
players, and other similar electronic toys and toys where the 4.6.1.3 Toys that are intended to be assembled by an adult
sound output is dependent on the content of removable media and contain potentially hazardous small objects in the unas-
(for example, game cartridge, flash cards, and so forth); (4) sembled state shall be labeled in accordance with 5.8.
toys that are connected to or interfaced with external devices 4.6.2 Mouth-Actuated Toys—This requirement relates to
(for example, televisions, computers) where the sound pressure toys, such as noisemakers, that are intended to be actuated
level is determined by the external device; and (5) sound repeatedly by blowing or sucking. Mouth-actuated toys that
emitted from earphones/headphones. contain loose objects, such as spheres in a whistle, or inserts,
such as reeds in a noisemaker, shall not release an object that
will fit within the small parts test cylinder, as shown in Fig. 3,
12
“Extraneous Materials: Isolation,” Offıcial Methods of Analysis of the Asso- when air is alternately blown and sucked rapidly through the
ciation of Offıcial Analytical Chemists, 15 ed., Chapter 16, 1990. mouthpiece, according to the procedure described in 8.13. The
10
F963 − 11
procedure of 8.13 shall also be applied to the outlet if the air 4.7.4 Molded Toys—Accessible edges, corners, or mold
outlet is capable of being inserted into or covered by the parting areas of molded toys should be free of hazardous edges
mouth. produced by burrs and flash or so protected that hazardous
4.6.2.1 Small objects contained in an inflatable toy shall not edges are not exposed.
be liberated during inflation or deflation. 4.7.5 Exposed Bolts or Threaded Rods—If the ends of bolts
4.6.3 Toys and games that are intended for use by children or threaded rods are accessible, the thread shall be free of
who are at least three years old (36 months) but less than six exposed, hazardous sharp edges and burrs, or the ends shall be
years of age (72 months) are subject to the requirements of 16
covered by smooth finish caps so that hazardous sharp edges
CFR 1500.19. With the exception of products such as paper
and burrs will not be exposed. Any caps that are used shall be
punch-out games and similar items, any toy or game that is
subjected to the compression test noted in 8.10, regardless of
intended for use by children who are at least three years old (36
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months) but less than six years of age (72 months) and includes whether the cap is accessible to flat-surface contact during the
a small part is subject to the labeling requirements in accor- appropriate impact test(s) described in 8.7. Protective caps
dance with 5.11.2. shall also be subjected to the tension test in 8.9 and the torque
test in 8.8.
4.7 Accessible Edges—Toys shall not have accessible, po-
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tentially hazardous sharp edges. Toys that are intended to be 4.8 Projections—This requirement relates to potentially
assembled by an adult, and may contain unprotected poten- hazardous projections in all toys intended for use by children
tially hazardous sharp edges in the unassembled state, shall be under 8 years of age. This requirement is intended to minimize
labeled in accordance with 5.8. possible puncture hazards to the skin that might be caused if a
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4.7.1 Potentially hazardous sharp metal and glass edges are child were to fall on a rigid projection, such as unprotected
defined in 16 CFR 1500.49. Toys intended for use by children ends of axles, actuating levers, and decorative features. Due to
under 8 years of age are subject to this requirement before or the extremely sensitive nature of the eyes and interior of the
after use and abuse testing, or both, as specified in 8.5 – 8.10. mouth, this requirement will not, nor is it intended to, provide
An illustration of a sharp edge tester is shown in Fig. 8. protection to those areas of the body. If a projection appears to
4.7.2 Toys containing potentially hazardous edges that are a
necessary part of the function of a toy shall carry cautionary
labeling as specified in 5.10 if the toy is intended for use by
children from 48 to 96 months. Toys intended for children aged
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present a potential skin puncture hazard, the projection shall be
protected by suitable means, such as by turning back the end of
a wire or by affixing a smoothly finished protective cap or
cover, which effectively increases the surface area for potential
less than 48 months shall not have accessible hazardous contact with the skin. Toys shall meet this requirement both
functional sharp edges.
before and after testing in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. Toys
4.7.3 Metal Toys—Accessible metal edges, including holes
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intended to be repeatedly assembled and taken apart shall have
and slots, shall be free of hazardous burrs and feathering, or
the individual pieces and fully assembled articles, as shown on
shall be hemmed, rolled, or curled, or shall be covered with a
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packaging graphics, instructions or other advertising, evaluated

permanently affixed device or finish.
separately. The requirements for the assembled toy do not
NOTE 4—Regardless of the manner in which edges are finished, they are apply to toys where the assembling makes up a significant part
subject to the sharp edge technical requirements as described in 4.7.1. If
a device is used to protect an edge, it shall not become detached after
of the play value of the toy. Since this requirement relates to
hazards arising from a child falling onto a toy, only vertical or
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being tested in accordance with the appropriate procedures described in

8.5 – 8.10. nearly vertical projections are required to be evaluated. The toy
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FIG. 8 Principle of Sharp Edge Test
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F963 − 11
shall be tested in its most onerous position. Corners of 4.10 Wires or Rods—Wires or rods used in the interior of
structures are excluded from this requirement. toys shall have their ends finished to avoid potentially hazard-
4.8.1 Bath Toy Projections—Rigid projections on toys de- ous points and burrs, shall be turned back, or shall be covered
signed primarily for use in the bath tub may pose a specific with smoothly finished protective caps or covers, if they can
hazard that can result in serious penetration and impalement become accessible after use or reasonably foreseeable abuse.
injuries. Additional design guidelines specifically for bath toy Metal wires or other metal materials used for stiffening or for
projections are provided in Annex A4 of this specification. As retention of form in toys shall not fracture to produce a
there are no objective means for determining conformance with hazardous point, edge, or projection hazard when tested in
these guidelines, they are not to be used to judge compliance accordance with 8.12, if the component can be bent through a
with this specification. 60° arc by the applicable maximum force. When applied
perpendicularly to the major axis of the component at a point
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4.9 Accessible Points—Toys shall not have accessible, po-
tentially hazardous sharp points that may occur because of the 2 6 0.05 in. (50 6 1.3 mm) from the intersection of the
following: configuration of the toy; assembly devices such as component with the main body of the toy or at the end of the
wires, pins, nails, and staples that are fastened poorly; poorly component if the component is less than 2 in. (50 mm) long,
sheared sheet metal; burrs on screws; and splintered wood. the maximum force shall be as follows (within a tolerance of
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Toys that are intended to be assembled by an adult and may 60.5 lb (60.02 kg)):
contain potentially hazardous sharp points in the unassembled 10 lbf (45 N) toys intended for use by children 18 months of age or less
15 lbf (67 N) toys intended for use by children over 18 but not over 96
state shall be labeled in accordance with 5.8. months of age
4.9.1 Potentially hazardous sharp points are defined by 16
The ends of spokes on toy umbrellas shall be protected. If
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CFR 1500.48. Toys intended for use by children under 8 years
the protection is removed when tested according to 8.9 (tension
of age are subject to this requirement before or after use and
test) the ends of the spokes shall be free from sharp edges and
abuse testing, or both, as specified in 8.5 – 8.10. An illustration
sharp points when tested in accordance with 4.7.1 (sharp edge
of a sharp-point tester is shown in Fig. 9.
test) and 4.9.1 (sharp point test). Furthermore, if the protective
4.9.2 Toys in which an accessible, potentially hazardous
sharp point is a necessary function of the toy, such as a needle
in a sewing kit, shall carry cautionary labeling as specified in
5.10, if the toy is intended for children from 48 to 96 months
old. Toys intended for children less than 48 months old shall
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components are removed by the tension test, the spokes shall
have a minimum diameter of 0.08 in. (2 mm) and the ends shall
be smooth, rounded, and approximately spherical with no
burrs.
not have accessible hazardous functional points. 4.11 Nails and Fasteners—Nails and fasteners shall not
4.9.3 Wood—The accessible surfaces and edges of wood present a point, edge, ingestion, or projection hazard. Points of
used in toys shall be free of splinters, both before and after nails or fasteners shall not protrude so as to be accessible.
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being tested in accordance with the appropriate procedures Additional requirements for nails and fasteners used as axles
described in 8.5 – 8.10. are given in 4.17.
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FIG. 9 Sharp Point Tester
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F963 − 11
4.12 Plastic Film—This requirement is intended to mini- completion of the testing in 8.25.1, the unit shall remain in its
mize the possibility of asphyxiation hazards that might be recommended use position. The test in 8.25.1 shall not apply to
caused by thin plastic films. Flexible plastic film bags and locking devices or other means where the direction of force of
flexible plastic sheets used as packaging materials for shelf the occupant load opposes the direction of collapse of the
packages or used with or as part of toys shall be at least mechanism.
0.00150 in. (0.03810 mm) in average thickness, but the actual 4.13.1.2 Locking devices shall comply with either of the
thickness of any individual measure shall never be less than following:
0.00125 in. (0.03175 mm). Alternatively, sheeting with an (1) Each single action device shall require a minimum
average thickness of less than 0.00150 in. (0.03810 mm) shall force of 10 lbf (45 N) to activate the release mechanism when
be perforated with defined holes so that a minimum of 1 % of
tested in accordance with 8.25.2.
the area has been removed over any area of 1.18 × 1.18 in. (30
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(2) Each double action locking device shall require two
× 30 mm). The thickness shall be determined using the test
distinct and separate actions to release. There are no force
method in 8.21. This requirement does not apply to the
requirements for double action locking devices.
following:
4.12.1 Shrink film in the form of an over wrap that would 4.13.2 Hinge-Line Clearance—Toys having a gap or clear-
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normally be destroyed when the package is opened by a ance along the hinge line between a stationary portion and a
consumer. moveable portion that weighs more than 1⁄2 lb (0.2 kg) shall be
4.12.2 Bags or plastic film with a minor dimension of 3.94 so constructed that, if the accessible gap at the hinge line will
in. (100 mm) or less. Bag dimensions shall be measured while admit a 3⁄16-in. (5-mm) diameter rod, it will also admit a 1⁄2-in.
in the form of a bag, not cut open into a single thickness sheet. (13-mm) diameter rod at all positions of the hinge.
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4.13 Folding Mechanisms and Hinges—These requirements 4.14 Cords, Straps, and Elastics—These requirements are
are intended to eliminate possible crushing, laceration, or intended to minimize the potential entanglement and strangu-
pinching hazards that might occur in folding mechanisms and lation hazards that might be caused by accessible cords, straps,
hinges. Examples are the sudden collapse or unexpected and elastics. These requirements are applicable before and after
motion of a folding mechanism or hinge that produces a scissor
action; and the changing clearances at the hinge line between
two hinged portions, such that the gap will admit fingers at any
one position of the hinge but not at all positions. These
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use and abuse testing in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10.
4.14.1 Cords, Straps, and Elastics in Toys—Cords or elas-
tics included with or attached to toys intended for children less
than 18 months of age (excluding pull toys, see 4.14.3) shall be
requirements do not relate to the recognized and familiar less than 12 in. (300 mm) long when measured to the
hazards associated with the changing clearances around the maximum length in a free state and under a load of 5 lb (2.25
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edges of doors or pivoted or hinged sections in toy truck kg). If cords/straps/elastics or multiple cords/straps/elastics can
bodies, toy earth moving machinery, and similar toys. Toys tangle or form a loop in connection with any part of the toy,
shall meet the requirements specified in 4.13.1 and 4.13.2 after
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including beads or other attachments on the ends of cords/

they are tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. Requirements for straps/elastics, the loop shall not permit the passage of the head
toy chests are contained in Consumer Safety Specification probe (Fig. 10) when tested in accordance with 8.22.
F834. Specifically, the loop shall not allow the head probe to be
4.13.1 Folding Mechanisms—Toy furniture and other toys inserted so deep that it admits the base of the probe. The
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in which a folding mechanism, arm, or bracing is intended or configuration of the loop shall be determined by using all
likely to support the weight of a child in normal use shall have components that make up the loop. For example, the configu-
a locking device or other means to prevent unexpected or ration of the loop for the product illustrated in Fig. 11 is
sudden movement or collapse of the product, or have adequate comprised of Cord 1, Cord 2, and the toy part.
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clearance to provide protection for the fingers, hands, and toes

4.14.1.1 Cords, Straps, and Elastics Containing a Break-
from crushing, laceration or pinching hazards in the event of
sudden movement or collapse of the product. Examples of away Feature—Cords, straps, and elastics on toys that have
products to which these requirements would apply include, but loops that admit the base of the head probe shall contain a
are not limited to, folding mechanisms in toy strollers a child functional breakaway feature that prevents entanglement by
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can sit in, toy chairs a child can sit in, or a child sized ironing releasing at a force less than 5.0 lbf (22.2 N) when tested in
board. One way to determine if a child can sit in a product is accordance with 8.22.3. The free length of the individual
to verify that the seat width would accommodate the hip released cord, strap, or elastic should not exceed a maximum
breadth of a child in the age range for which the product is length of 12 in. (300 mm). The breakaway feature shall be
intended. Examples of products to which these requirements capable of being reattached without altering the characteristics
would not apply include, but are not limited to, a doll house of the attachment.
sized chair, a doll house sized bed, or an expandable/ 4.14.2 Self Retracting Pull Cords—Accessible cords used in
collapsible sphere. cord-activated mechanisms in toys intended for use by children
4.13.1.1 Locking devices or other means to prevent unex- under 18 months of age, except monofilament-type cords 1⁄16
pected or sudden movement or collapse of the product shall in. (2 mm) or less in diameter, shall not retract more than 1⁄4 in.
engage automatically when the product is placed in the (6 mm) when a weight of 2 lb (0.9 kg) is attached to the fully
manufacturer’s recommended use position. During and upon extended cord with the cord held vertical and the toy held
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FIG. 10 Head Probe for Cords and Elastics

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firmly in the most favorable position for retraction. Monofila- recognize that a child learns instinctively to compensate for
ment cords, 1⁄16 in. (2 mm) or less in diameter, shall not retract inclined positions. The requirements listed in 4.15.2 and 4.15.3
under a load of 1 lb (0.45 kg) when tested in the manner shall apply to the following classes of toys intended for use by
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described above. children aged 60 months or less: ride-on toys, with three or
4.14.3 Pull Toys—Cords, straps, and elastics greater than 12 more load bearing wheels, such as wagons; ride-on, action-type
in. (300 mm) long for pull toys intended for children under 36 toys such as hobby horses, rocking toys (for example, horses,
months of age shall not be provided with beads or other cars); and toy seats. Ride-on toys of spherical, cylindrical, or
attachments that could tangle to form a loop. other shape that do not normally have a stable base are not
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4.14.4 Strings and Lines for Flying Devices—Kite strings covered by these requirements. The toy shall conform to these
and handheld lines over 6 ft (1.8 m) long, attached to flying requirements after it is tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10.
devices intended for use as playthings, shall have an electric 4.15.2 Sideways Stability Requirements—These require-
resistance of more than 108 Ω/cm when tested at a relative ments recognize two types of possible stability hazards: those
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humidity of not less than 45 % and a temperature of not greater associated with ride-on toys or toy seats in which the feet can
than 75°F (24°C), when measured by a high-voltage, resistance provide stabilization, and those situations in which the feet are
breakdown meter. restricted by an enclosing structure.
4.14.5 Cords on Toy Bags Intended for Children Up to 18 4.15.2.1 Sideways Stability, Feet Available for
Months—Toy bags made of impermeable material with an Stabilization—There shall be no sideways stability test for
opening perimeter greater than 14 in. (360 mm) shall not have those ride-on toys or toy seats in which the height of the seat
a drawstring or cord as a means of closing. from the ground is one third, or less than one third, of the
4.15 Stability and Over-Load Requirements: height indicated in Table 3 at the lowest age of the age range
4.15.1 Stability of Ride-On Toys and Toy Seats—These for which the ride-on toy or toy seat is intended, and in which
requirements are intended to minimize unexpected hazards that the legs of the child are unrestricted in their sideways motion
could be caused by a toy that can tip easily. They take into and thus are available for stabilization. (The values given in
account the use of the child’s legs as stabilizing means and Table 3 represent the lower of the following two numbers: (1)
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FIG. 11 Loop Example
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TABLE 3 Height of Fifth Percentile Children (Values Given for with respect to the child’s position, where the child cannot
Boys or Girls, Whichever is Lower) easily use his/her legs for stabilization, and in the backward
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Age, Height, direction with respect to the child regardless of whether his/her
years in. (cm)
legs are available for stabilization. All ride-on toys or toy seats
1 27 (69.8)
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2 29 (74.4)
falling within the scope of 4.15 shall not tip forward or
3 33 (85.1) backward when the toy, which shall be loaded with a simulated
4 37 (93.8) child’s weight, is tested both facing down and up the slope
5 40 (100.5)
using the test method of 8.15, except that the surface shall be
inclined 15° to the horizontal. The stability of ride-on toys is to
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be tested not only with the steering wheels in a forward

the fifth percentile group of boys at each age from 1 up to and position, but also at an angle of 45° to the left and to the right
including 5 years; and (2) the fifth percentile group of girls at of the forward position.
each age from 1 up to and including 5 years.) For those ride-on 4.15.4 Stability of Stationary Floor Toys—This requirement
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toys, or toy seats in which the height of the seat from the is intended to minimize hazards that might be caused by a toy
ground is greater than one third of the height indicated in Table that tips when a door, drawer, or other movable portion is
3 at the lowest age of the age range for which the ride-on toy extended to its fullest travel. Stationary floor toys of greater
or toy seat is intended, and in which the legs of the child are than 30 in. (760 mm) in height and weighing more than 10 lb
unrestricted in their sideways motion and thus are available for (4.5 kg) shall not tip when placed on a 10° incline with all
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stabilization, the toy shall not tip when tested in accordance movable portions extended to their fullest travel and facing in
with 8.15. When the lowest age of the intended age range falls the direction of the downslope side. The toy shall conform to
between two ages listed in Table 3, the lower of the two shall this requirement after it is tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10.
be chosen. 4.15.5 Overload Requirements for Ride-On Toys and Toy
4.15.2.2 Sideways Stability, Feet Unavailable for Seats—This requirement is intended to minimize unexpected
Stabilization—If the sideways motion of the feet or legs, or hazards that could be caused by a toy that is not capable of
both, is restricted, such as by the enclosed sides of a toy withstanding an overload. All ride-on toys, toys intended for
automobile, the ride-on toy or toy seat shall not tip when tested use as seats, or toys designed to support all or part of the
as specified in 8.15, except that the surface shall be inclined weight of the child shall support a load applied to the seat, or
15° to the horizontal. to other such intended load-bearing components, without
4.15.3 Fore and Aft Stability—This requirement relates to collapsing to produce a hazardous condition when tested in
the stability of ride-on toys or toy seats in the forward direction accordance with 8.26. Examples of hazardous conditions if
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F963 − 11
collapse occurs would include the following: exposure of toy made of impermeable material and having a door or lid,
hazardous edges, or points, projections, crushing or pinching which encloses a continuous volume greater than 1.1 ft3 (0.03
hazards, and power-driven mechanisms. The toy shall conform m3) and in which all integral dimensions are 6 in. (150 mm) or
to this requirement after being tested in accordance with 8.5 more, shall provide one of the following unobstructed ventila-
through 8.10. tion areas:
4.15.6 Wheeled Ride-on Toys—Ride-on toys incorporating 4.16.1.1 A minimum of two openings each having a total
wheels intended for movement along the ground shall be tested area of at least 1 in.2 (650 mm2) placed at least 6 in. (150 mm)
in accordance with the Dynamic Strength Test for Wheeled apart (see Fig. 12(a)).
Ride-ons in 8.20. Wheeled ride-on toys shall be tested after 4.16.1.2 One opening that is the equivalent of the two
being tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. 1.0-in.2 (650-mm2) openings expanded to include the separa-
tion area provided this leaves opening areas of 1.0 in.2 (650
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4.16 Confined Spaces—The purpose of these requirements
is to minimize the possible entrapment of children in toys that mm) on either side of a 6-in. (150-mm) spacing (see Fig.
form enclosures, such as toy refrigerators, and to prevent 12(b)). The ventilation openings shall be unobstructed when
possible suffocation in head-enclosing toys such as space the toy is placed on the floor in any position and adjacent to
helmets. Toys shall meet the requirements listed in 4.16.1 – two vertical plane surfaces meeting at a 90° angle, so as to
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4.16.3 after the toys are tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. simulate the corner of a room. If a permanent partition or bars
See Consumer Safety Specification F834 for requirements for (two or more), which effectively limit the continuous space by
toy chests. making the largest internal dimension less than 6 in. are used
4.16.1 Ventilation—The purpose of these requirements is to to subdivide a continuous space, the ventilation area shall not
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minimize the possible entrapment of children in toys that form be required.
enclosures, such as toy refrigerators, and to prevent possible 4.16.2 Closures—Closures (such as lids, covers, and doors)
suffocation in head-enclosing toys such as space helmets. Any to enclosures falling within the scope of 4.16.1 shall not be
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FIG. 12
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F963 − 11
fitted with automatic locking devices. Closures shall be of a accessible clearances admit a 3⁄16-in. (5-mm) diameter rod, they
type that can be opened with a force of 10 lbf (45 N) or less shall also admit a 1⁄2-in. (13-mm) diameter rod in order to
when treated as follows: prevent the trapping of fingers.
4.16.2.1 With the closure in a closed position, apply the 4.18.2 Circular Holes in Rigid Materials—This requirement
force in an outward direction to the inside of the closure is intended to prevent finger entrapment (which may cut off
perpendicular to the plane of the closure and anywhere within blood circulation) in accessible holes in sheet metal and other
1 in. (25 mm) from the geometric center of the closure. The rigid material in toys intended for children aged 60 months or
force measurement shall be made by means of a force gauge less. (Noncircular holes are believed to present no significant
with a calibrated accuracy within 60.3 lb (0.1 kg) when hazard of cutting off blood circulation in entrapped fingers.) If
measuring a force of 10 lb (45 N). The dial of the gauge shall an accessible, circular hole in any rigid material less than 0.062
be graduated with its finest division not exceeding 0.2 lb (0.9
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in. (1.58 mm) in thickness can admit a 1⁄4-in. (6-mm) diameter
N), and the full-scale range shall not exceed 30 lb (130 N). rod to a depth of 3⁄8 in. (10 mm) or greater, it shall also admit
4.16.3 Toys that Enclose the Head—Toys that enclose the a 1⁄2-in. (13-mm) diameter rod.
head, such as space helmets, which are made of impermeable
4.18.3 Chains and Belts—These requirements are to prevent
material, shall provide means for breathing by the incorpora-
finger crushing through entrapment between links of support-
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tion of unobstructed ventilation areas. The ventilation areas
ing chains or between chains and sprockets or pulleys and
shall consist of a minimum of two holes, with a total of at least
belts.
2 in.2 (1300 mm2) of ventilation and at least 6 in. (150 mm)
between holes. 4.18.3.1 Supporting Chains—Chains in toys that support the
weight of a child, such as hanging seats or similar indoor
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4.17 Wheels, Tires, and Axles—These requirements are devices, intended for children 36 months or less in age, shall be
intended to eliminate the possibility of ingestion hazards (as shielded if the chain is accessible and if a 0.19-in. (5-mm)
described in 4.6) that might be caused by small wheels or tires diameter rod can be inserted between two links, as in Fig. 13,
that separate during normal use or reasonably foreseeable with the chain in slack configuration.
abuse, as well as laceration or puncture hazards from project-
ing axles, either on the toy or on wheel assemblies that may be
removed from the toy during abuse. The requirements shall
apply to transportation wheels on both preassembled and
knocked-down toys intended for children aged 96 months or
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4.18.3.2 Chains or Belts for Ride-On Toys—Power trans-
mission chains and belts in ride-on toys shall be shielded.
4.18.4 Inaccessibility of Mechanisms—Clockwork, battery-
operated, inertial, or other power-driven mechanisms in toys
less, except for ingestion hazards from small wheels and axles, intended for children aged 60 months or less shall not have any
which apply to toys intended for children under 36 months of accessible part of the mechanism present a pinch or laceration
age, as covered in 4.6. In the case of knocked-down toys, the hazard. (For circular holes, also see the requirement under
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toy shall be tested in the form that it would be assembled by the 4.18.2.)
purchaser, using simple household tools or special tools pro- 4.18.5 Winding Keys—This requirement is to prevent the
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vided by the manufacturer, if any, or both. After being pinching or laceration of fingers by entrapment between the
subjected to the use and abuse tests of 8.5 – 8.11, wheels, tires, key and body of the toy. It applies to toys intended for children
or axles shall not present a laceration, puncture, or ingestion under 36 months of age that use winding keys that rotate as the
hazard as defined in 3.1.60 and 4.6.1, respectively. mechanism unwinds. This requirement applies to keys with flat
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4.18 Holes, Clearance, and Accessibility of Mechanisms— plates attached to the stem and that protrude from a rigid
These requirements are intended to eliminate possible hazards surface; the requirement does not apply to those circular knobs
that may be caused by changing clearances. Toys shall meet to which the torque is applied. If the clearance between the
these requirements after they are tested in accordance with 8.5 flukes of the key and body of the toy will admit a 0.25-in.
(6-mm) diameter rod, it shall also admit a 0.5-in. (13-mm)
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– 8.10. The different pinch clearance requirements listed in

4.18.1 – 4.18.6 reflect the different modes of entrapment or diameter rod at all positions of the key. For keys covered by
pinching that may be encountered. this requirement, there shall be no opening in the flukes of the
4.18.1 Accessible Clearances for Moveable Segments—This key that can admit a 0.19-in. (5-mm) diameter rod.
requirement concerns clearances between movable segments 4.18.6 Coil Springs—These requirements are intended to
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on toys intended for children under 96 months only, where the prevent the pinching or crushing of fingers or toes by toys
potential for pinching or crushing fingers or other appendages containing springs. Coil springs (either compression or exten-
exists. It includes, but is not limited to, wheels and rigid-wheel sion) that form part of a component that carries the weight of
wells, fenders, or the radial clearance between the wheels and a child shall be shielded so as to prevent access during use or
chassis of ride-on toys, or the driven wheels and other parts of reasonably foreseeable abuse unless either of the following
toys powered by electrical, spring, or inertial energy. If such occurs:
FIG. 13 Clearance for Chain Links
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F963 − 11
4.18.6.1 A 0.12-in. (3-mm) diameter rod cannot be inserted each of three aliquots of any one nitrosamine. In addition, the
freely; or total nitrosamines of the sample shall not exceed 20 ppb.
4.18.6.2 A 0.25-in. (6-mm) diameter rod can be inserted 4.20.2 Toy pacifiers attached to, or sold with, toys intended
freely between the adjacent coils at all points in the action for children under 36 months of age shall comply with the
cycle when the spring is subjected first to a weight of 3 lb (1.4 requirements outlined in 4.6.1 of this specification (small
kg) and then to a weight of 70 lb (32 kg). objects), and either conform to the requirements of 16 CFR
4.19 Simulated Protective Devices (such as helmets, hats, 1511 or have a nipple length no longer than 0.63 in. (16 mm).
and goggles)—These requirements are intended to minimize This measurement shall be taken from the nipple side of the
hazards that might be caused, for example, by goggles or space shield to the end of the nipple.
helmets if the material from which they are constructed fails; or 4.21 Projectile Toys—These requirements relate to certain,
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by toys that simulate protective devices such as football but not all, potential, unexpected hazards that might be caused
helmets and pads, if the wearer uses the article as a real by projectile firing toys and by the firing of improvised
protective device rather than as a toy. The toy shall conform to projectiles from such toys. Certain well-recognized hazards
the requirements listed in 4.19.1 and 4.19.2 after testing in that are inherent in traditional toys such as slingshots and darts
accordance with 8.7.4 and 8.8 through 8.10. are not covered by these requirements. The discharge mecha-
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4.19.1 Eye Protection—All rigid toys that cover the face, nism as well as the projectile shall conform to the requirements
such as goggles, space helmets, or face shields, shall be specified in this section after testing in accordance with the
constructed of impact-resistant material that will not have appropriate test methods described in 8.5 – 8.10 and 8.14.
sharp edges, sharp points, or loose parts that could enter the eye 4.21.1 These requirements apply to toys that are intended to
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before or after being tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. This launch projectiles into free flight by means of a discharge
applies to items with cutout eye holes as well as items that mechanism in which the kinetic energy of the projectile is
cover the eyes. determined by the toy and not by the user.
4.19.2 Toys that simulate safety protective devices (ex- 4.21.1.1 No projectile intended to be fired from a toy shall
amples include, but are not limited to, construction helmets and have any sharp edges, sharp points, or small parts that would fit
sports helmets) and their packages shall be labeled clearly in
accordance with 5.9 to warn the purchaser that they are not
safety protective devices.
4.20 Pacifiers—Infant pacifiers shall conform to the safety
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within the cylinder shown in Fig. 3.
4.21.1.2 No rigid projectile fired from a toy shall have a tip
radius less than 0.08 in. (2 mm).
4.21.1.3 Any rigid projectile fired from a toy that has a
requirements as specified in 16 CFR 1511. Illustrations of the kinetic energy that exceeds 0.08 J (as determined by 8.14.1)
pacifier test fixture are shown in Fig. 14. shall have an impact surface(s) of a resilient material.
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4.20.1 Pacifiers with rubber nipples shall conform to the 4.21.1.4 Any protective tip shall either (1) not be detached
nitrosamine levels as specified in Specification F1313. This from the projectile when subjected to the torque and tension
tests described in 8.8 and 8.9, or (2) if the protective tip does
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specification states that a test sample of nipples, drawn from a

standard production lot, shall not contain more than 10 ppb in become detached during the test at less than the specified
torque or tension, or both, the projectile shall not be able to be
launched from the provided launcher. Additionally, the protec-
tive tip shall not produce or reveal hazardous points or edges
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when fired into a solid object, in accordance with the test

methods described in 8.14.4.
4.21.1.5 The aforementioned requirements shall not apply
to any discharge mechanism incapable of storing energy
independent of the user, or intended to propel a ground-based
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vehicular toy along a track or other surface, or when the

projectile is inaccessible to a child when it leaves the discharge
mechanism, for example, bagatelle or pinball machines.
4.21.2 Discharge Mechanisms—Discharge mechanisms
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shall be unable to discharge potentially hazardous improvised

projectiles such as pencils or pebbles without modification by
the user.
4.21.3 Any arrow shall have a protective tip that complies
with 4.21.1.4.
4.22 Teethers and Teething Toys—These requirements are
intended to address a potential impaction hazard associated
with teethers. These requirements are applicable before and
after use and abuse testing in accordance with Section 8.
4.22.1 Teethers and teething toys shall conform to the
dimensional requirements for infant rattles as specified in 16
FIG. 14 Pacifier Test Fixture CFR 1510. Illustrations of a rattle test fixture are shown in Fig.
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FIG. 15 Rattle Test Fixture
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15. A teether shall meet this requirement when tested under the
force only of its own weight and in a noncompressed state.
4.22.2 In addition, teethers and teething toys incorporating
nearly spherical, hemispherical, or circular flared ends shall be
designed so that such ends are not capable of entering and
penetrating to the full depth of the cavity in the supplemental
test fixture shown in Fig. 16. A teether shall meet this
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requirement when tested under the force only of its own weight
and in a noncompressed state.
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4.22.3 Exclusion—The requirements of 4.22.1 and 4.22.2
shall not apply to the following: FIG. 16 Supplemental Test Fixture for Rattles, Squeeze Toys,
(1) Teething toys that are composed of liquid-filled beads
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and Teethers
that are attached to form a ring or beads that are threaded on a
flexible cord or string. 4.24 Squeeze Toys—These requirements are intended to
(2) Soft-filled (stuffed) teething toys or soft-filled parts or address a potential impaction hazard associated with squeeze
parts of fabric. toys intended for children under the age of 18 months. These
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(3) Rigid components having a major dimension equal to requirements are applicable before and after use and abuse
or less than 1.2 in. (30 mm) contained within soft-filled testing in accordance with Section 8.
teething toys. 4.24.1 Squeeze toys shall conform to the dimensional re-
4.23 Rattles—Infant rattles shall conform to the safety quirements for rattles as specified in 16 CFR 1510. Illustrations
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requirements as specified in 16 CFR 1510. Illustrations of a of a rattle test fixture are presented in Fig. 15. A squeeze toy
rattle test fixture are shown in Fig. 15. shall meet these requirements when tested under the force only
4.23.1 In addition to meeting the requirements of 16 CFR of its own weight and in a noncompressed state.
1510, rigid rattles incorporating nearly spherical, 4.24.2 In addition, squeeze toys incorporating nearly
hemispherical, or circular flared ends shall be designed so that spherical, hemispherical, or circular flared ends shall be
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such ends are not capable of entering and penetrating to the full designed so that such ends are not capable of entering and
depth of the cavity in the supplemental test fixture illustrated in penetrating to the full depth of the cavity in the supplemental
Fig. 16. A rattle shall meet this requirement when tested under test fixture shown in Fig. 16. A squeeze toy shall meet these
the force only of its own weight and in a noncompressed state. requirements when tested under the force only of its own
These requirements are applicable before and after use and weight and in a noncompressed state.
abuse testing in accordance with Section 8. 4.24.3 Exclusion—The requirements of 4.24.1 and 4.24.2
4.23.2 Exclusion—The requirements of 4.23 and 4.23.1 shall not apply to the following:
shall not apply to the following: (1) Soft-filled (stuffed) squeeze toys or soft-filled parts or
(1) Soft-filled (stuffed) rattles or soft-filled parts or parts of parts of fabric.
fabric. (2) Rigid components having a major dimension equal to
(2) Rigid components having a major dimension equal to or less than 1.2 in. (30 mm) contained within soft-filled
or less than 1.2 in. (30 mm) contained within soft-filled rattles. squeeze toys.
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4.25 Battery-Operated Toys—These requirements are in- different functions or in applications requiring the combination
tended to address potential risks of injury associated with of alternating current and non-rechargeable batteries, each
battery usage in toys intended for use by children (for example, circuit shall be isolated electrically to prevent current from
battery overheating, leakage, explosion and fire, and choking flowing between the individual circuits.
on or swallowing batteries). Both non-rechargeable and re- 4.25.7 The surfaces of the batteries shall not achieve tem-
chargeable batteries are subject to these requirements. Battery- peratures exceeding 71°C.
operated toys shall conform to the requirements specified in 4.25.7.1 This requirement is applicable for all battery-
this section after testing in accordance with the appropriate test operated toys during normal use conditions. In addition,
methods described in 8.5 – 8.12. For purposes of ensuring battery-operated toys intended for children 96 months or less
compliance with these requirements, fresh alkaline batteries shall meet this requirement after reasonably foreseeable abuse.
that meet the dimensional requirements of the latest revision of
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4.25.7.2 If external moving parts of the toy that are me-
ANSI C18.1 or the latest revision of IEC 60086-2 shall be
chanically linked to the motor can be stalled by the user, test
selected for test purposes. If another battery chemistry is
for a stalled motor condition according to the procedures of
specifically required for use in the toy by the manufacturer,
8.17 to determine conformance with the temperature limits.
testing shall be repeated using that type of battery. When
4.25.8 No condition shall occur that would cause the toy to
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rechargeable batteries are specified by the manufacturer, fully
recharged batteries shall be used for testing purposes. fail the temperature requirements of 4.25.7 or present a
4.25.1 The toy shall be marked permanently on the battery combustion hazard as described in 4.25.
compartment or on the area immediately adjacent to the battery 4.25.9 Battery-operated toys shall meet the requirements of
compartment to show the correct battery polarity using the 6.5 for instructions on safe battery usage. Toys which use
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polarity symbols “+” and “−”. Additional markings located on non-replaceable batteries as the only source of power are not
the toy or in the instructions must indicate the correct battery subject to 6.5.
size and voltage. These markings are not required for non- 4.25.10 Battery-Powered Ride-On Toys—These require-
replaceable batteries or for rechargeable battery packs that, by ments cover wheeled ride-on toys, not intended for streets or
design, can only be inserted in the correct orientation. Battery
compartments for button cell batteries are not subject to this
requirement.
NOTE 5—The battery compartment door is considered part of the
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roadways, using a battery power source that is capable of
delivering at least 8 amps into any variable resistor load for at
least one minute.
4.25.10.1 The maximum temperature measured on the in-
battery compartment. sulation of any conductor shall not exceed the temperature
rating of the material (third party test laboratory rating) when
4.25.1.1 Toys containing non-replaceable batteries shall be
tested in accordance with 8.18.2.
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labeled in accordance with 5.15.
4.25.2 The maximum allowable direct current potential 4.25.10.2 Battery-powered ride-on toys shall not present a
risk of fire when tested in accordance with the stalled motor
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between any two accessible electrical points is 24 V nominal.

4.25.3 Battery-operated toys shall be designed so that it is test of 8.18.3.
not possible to charge any non-rechargeable battery. This can 4.25.10.3 A battery-powered ride-on toy designed with a
be achieved through physical design of the battery compart- wiring system that has a user replaceable device (fuse type) for
ment or through the use of an appropriate electrical circuit the primary circuit protection or a wiring system with user
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design. This applies to situations in which a battery may be resetable primary circuit protection (manual reset fuse) shall
installed incorrectly (reversed) or in which a battery charger not actuate (open or trip) when tested in accordance with the
may be applied to a toy containing non-rechargeable batteries, nuisance tripping test of 8.18.4.
or both. This section does not apply to circuits having one or 4.25.10.4 Switches used in battery-powered ride-on toys.
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two non-rechargeable batteries as the only source of power. (1) Polymeric materials in switches used in battery-
4.25.3.1 Toys having a circuit powered only by button cell powered ride-on toys that are used to support current-carrying
type batteries are not subject to this requirement. parts shall carry a minimum flame rating of UL-94 V-0 or have
4.25.4 For toys intended for children less than 3 years old, a glow wire ignition rating of 750°C. Note: This requirement
all batteries shall not be accessible before or after testing in does not apply to switches used in low-power circuits. A
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accordance with 8.5 – 8.10, without the use of a coin, low-power circuit is defined as one using an effective battery
screwdriver, or other common household tool. Testing is power source that is not capable of delivering at least 8 amps
performed using the recommended batteries installed. into any variable resistor load for at least one minute.
4.25.5 For all toys, batteries that fit completely within the (2) The switch body shall not result in a short-circuit
small parts test cylinder shown in Fig. 3 shall not be accessible, condition when subjected to the switch endurance test and
before or after testing in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10, without overload tests of 8.18.5.
the use of a coin, screwdriver, or other common household (3) The switch shall not fail in a mode that could cause the
tool. Testing is performed using the recommended batteries vehicle to run continuously (switch stuck in the “on” position)
installed. when subjected to the endurance test and the overload test in
4.25.6 Batteries of different types or capacities shall not be 8.18.5.
mixed within any single electrical circuit. In applications 4.25.10.5 User replaceable circuit protection devices in
requiring more than one type or capacity of battery to provide battery-powered ride-on toys.
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(1) User replaceable circuit protection devices used in 4.29 Art Materials—The purpose of this requirement is to
battery-powered ride-on toys shall be listed, recognized or minimize the potential risks associated with the use of art
certified by an independent laboratory. materials that present chronic health hazards.
(2) All circuit protection devices used in battery-powered 4.29.1 Toys and components of toys that fall within the
ride-on toys intended to be replaced by the user shall be definition of art material as found in 16 CFR 1500.14 (b) (8)
replaceable only with the use of a tool or by a design which shall meet the requirements for toxicological review by a U.S.
does not easily allow tampering such as a design requiring board-certified toxicologist. The protocol used to evaluate the
excessive force to open. art materials must be filed with the Consumer Product Safety
4.25.10.6 Batteries, as described in 4.25.10, and battery Commission (CPSC), and the list of ingredients must also be
chargers. filed with the commission if the material is or contains a
chronically hazardous substance.
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(1) Battery connectors must be constructed of material with
a V-0 flame rating or have a glow wire ignition rating of 750°C. 4.29.2 Toys and components of toys that are art materials
(2) The battery charging system shall not present a risk of and are determined to contain hazardous materials must have
fire due to a short-circuit condition applied to any point in the appropriate warnings as defined in the Federal regulations and
length of a charger/battery interconnecting cable when tested in as noted in 5.13 of this specification. Items that do not contain
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accordance with 8.18.7. hazardous materials must also be labeled as to their conformity.
(3) During charging, battery-charging voltages shall not 4.29.3 Toys and components of toys that have been deter-
exceed the recommended charging voltages when tested in mined to pose a chronic health hazard and require warnings are
accordance with 8.18.6. not suitable for use by children who are in pre-kindergarten, or
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(4) Battery chargers must be certified to the appropriate grades one through six.
current national standard, for example UL, CSA, or equivalent 4.30 Toy Gun Marking—This requirement is intended to
standards body. minimize the potential for a toy gun to be mistaken for a real
4.25.10.7 Wiring connected to the main/motor battery shall firearm.
be short-circuit protected and shall not present the risk of fire
when tested in accordance with 8.18.7.
4.25.10.8 Strain relief shall be provided to prevent mechani-
cal stress on wires entering a connector block during routine
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4.30.1 This requirement applies to all toy, look-alike, and
imitation firearms which have the general appearance, shape,
or configuration, or combination thereof, of a firearm. This
includes, but is not limited to, nonfunctional guns, water guns,
maintenance such as battery charging, and tested in accordance air soft guns, cap guns, light emitting guns, and guns with an
with 8.18.8. opening to eject any nonmetallic projectile.
4.25.10.9 Battery-powered ride-on toys shall comply with 4.30.2 This requirement does not apply to the following
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the requirements in 5.15.1 for safety labeling, 6.5.3 for types of guns:
additional instructional literature, and 7.2 for required produc- 4.30.2.1 Futuristic toy guns that do not have the general
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er’s markings. appearance, shape, or configuration, or combination thereof, of

any firearm.
4.26 Toys Intended to be Attached to a Crib or Playpen— 4.30.2.2 Nonfiring collector replica antique firearms that
These requirements are intended to minimize entanglement or look authentic and may be a scale model but are not intended
strangulation hazards that might be caused by toys intended to
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as toys.
be attached to a crib or playpen (see also 4.14).
4.30.2.3 Traditional B-B guns, paint ball guns, or pellet
4.26.1 Protrusions—Toys attached to a crib or playpen in guns that expel a projectile through the force of compressed air,
the manner prescribed by the manufacturer’s instructions shall compressed gas, or mechanical spring action, or combination
not have hazardous protrusions that could contribute to en- thereof.
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tanglement injury. This requirement is applicable before and 4.30.2.4 Decorative, ornamental, and miniature objects hav-
after use and abuse testing in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. ing the appearance, shape, or configuration, or combination
Design guidelines are provided in Annex A3. thereof, of a firearm provided that the objects measure no more
4.26.2 Crib Mobiles—Crib mobiles shall comply with the than 1.50 in. (38 mm) in height by 2.75 in. (70 mm) in length,
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requirements listed in 5.6 for safety labeling and 6.3 for with the length measurement excluding any gun stock length
instructional literature. measurement. This includes items intended to be displayed on
4.26.3 Crib Gyms—Crib gyms, including crib exercisers a desk or worn on bracelets, necklaces, key chains, etc.
and similar toys intended to be strung across a crib or playpen, 4.30.3 Items subject to this requirement must be marked or
shall comply with the requirements listed in 5.5 for safety manufactured, or both, in any one of the following ways. The
labeling and 6.2 for instructional literature. marking must be permanent and must remain in place after
being tested in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. The word “perma-
4.27 Stuffed and Beanbag-Type Toys—Stuffed and beanbag-
nent” excludes the use of ordinary paint or labels for the
type toys shall meet the applicable requirements of this
purposes of this section. The “blaze orange” color referred to in
specification after being tested in accordance with 8.9.1. 4.30.3.1 and 4.30.3.2 is Federal Standard 595a, Color 12199.
4.28 Stroller and Carriage Toys—Stroller and carriage toys 4.30.3.1 A blaze orange plug, or brighter orange colored
shall comply with the requirements for safety labeling in 5.7. plug, affixed into the muzzle end of the barrel as an integral
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F963 − 11
part of the toy. The plug shall not be recessed more than 0.25 (1) Exclusions—The requirement of 4.32.2 does not apply
in. (6 mm) from the muzzle end of the barrel. to the following toy fasteners:
4.30.3.2 A blaze orange band, or brighter orange colored (a) Soft{filled (stuffed) or fabric fasteners,
band, covering the circumference of the muzzle end of the (b) Fasteners with non{rigid ends, and
barrel for a distance of at least 0.25 in. (6 mm). (c) Fasteners tethered to a toy where the weight of the
4.30.3.3 Coloration of the entire exterior surface of the toy combined toy/fastener is more than 1.1 lb (0.5 kg) and the
in white, bright red, bright orange, bright yellow, bright green, length of the tether is less than 12 in. (300 mm).
bright blue, bright pink, or bright purple, either individually or 4.32.3 Preschool Play Figures—This requirement is in-
as the predominant color in combination with any other color tended to address the potential choking/obstruction hazard
in any pattern. associated with certain preschool figures intended for children
under three years of age. The characteristics that distinguish
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4.31 Balloons—Packages containing latex balloons and toys
or games containing latex balloons shall comply with the toy figures falling within the scope of this requirement include:
labeling requirements of 16 CFR 1500.19. Labeling statements (1) a round, spherical, or hemispherical end with tapered neck
for balloons are contained in 5.11.5 of this specification. attached to a simple cylindrical shape without appendages, and
(2) an overall length not exceeding 2.5 in. (64 mm) (see
4.32 Certain Toys with Nearly Spherical Ends—These re-
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examples in Fig. 19). This includes figures with added or
quirements are intended to address a potential impaction molded features such as hats or hair, which retain the rounded
hazard associated with nearly13 spherical, hemispherical, cir- shape of the end.
cular flared or dome shaped ends on toys or components of 4.32.3.1 Preschool play figures intended for children under
toys. three years of age shall be designed so that their rounded ends
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4.32.1 Nearly spherical, hemispherical, circular flared, or are not capable of entering and penetrating to the full depth of
dome-shaped ends of toys or components of toys must not be the cavity in the supplemental test fixture illustrated in Fig. 16.
capable of penetrating the full depth of the cavity of the Test the play figure under the force of its own weight.
supplemental test fixture shown in Fig. 16 when tested under 4.32.3.2 Exclusion—The requirement of 4.32.3.1 shall not
the force only of their own weight and in a non{compressed
state. This requirement applies to toys if they meet all the
following criteria:
4.32.1.1 The toy is intended for children up to the age of 18
months.
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apply to soft play figures made of textiles.
4.33 Marbles—Marbles shall comply with the labeling re-
quirements of 16 CFR 1500.19. Labeling statements for
marbles are contained in 5.11.4 of this specification.
4.32.1.2 The toy or component containing the nearly spheri- 4.33.1 Toys and games intended for children at least 3 years
cal end weighs less than 1.1 lb (0.5 kg). of age but less than 8 years of age that contain a marble shall
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4.32.1.3 The nearly spherical, hemispherical, circular flared comply with the labeling requirements 16 CFR 1500.19.
or dome shaped end adjoins a shaft, handle or support that has Applicable labeling statements are contained in 5.11.4.1 of this
a smaller cross section.14 specification.
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(1) Exclusion—The requirement of 4.32.1 does not apply to 4.34 Balls:

soft{filled (stuffed) toys or soft{filled parts of toys or parts 4.34.1 Balls intended for children under 36 months of age
entirely of fabric. are subject to the requirements of 16 CFR 1500.18 (a)(17). A
4.32.2 Nearly spherical, hemispherical, or dome-shaped loose ball in toys intended for children under 36 months of age
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ends of toy fasteners (for example, nails, bolts, screws, pegs) shall not, under the influence of its own weight and without
(see Fig. 17) must not be capable of penetrating the full depth compression, pass entirely through the template shown in Fig.
of the cavity of the supplemental test fixture shown in Fig. 16 20. A ball which does pass through the template is determined
when tested under the force only of their own weight and in a to be a “small ball.”
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non{compressed state. This requirement of 4.32.2 applies to 4.34.2 Toys intended for children at least 3 years old but less
toy fasteners if they meet all the following criteria: than 8 years of age that contain a loose small ball are subject
4.32.2.1 They are intended for children aged at least 18 to the requirements of 16 CFR 1500.19. Applicable labeling
months but less than 48 months of age. statements are contained in 5.11.3 of this specification.
4.32.2.2 They have an overall length of 2.25 in. (57.1 mm)
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or greater. 4.35 Pompoms—These requirements are intended to address

4.32.2.3 Their nearly spherical, hemispherical or domed choking hazards associated with pompoms on toys intended for
ends have a diameter equal to or greater than 0.6 in. (15 mm). children under three years of age that detach during 8.16.
4.32.2.4 The distance from the apex of the fastener to the Pompoms detached during 8.16 must not pass entirely through
undercut is 1.75 in. (44.4 mm) or less as shown in Fig. 18. the 1.75-in. (44.5-mm) test fixture (see Fig. 20) under their own
weight. Any components, pieces, or individual strands of the
pompom that are liberated during the torque and tension tests
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should not be subject to this test. Test the pompoms by putting
The term “nearly” is used here, consistent with the long standing and
successful squeeze toy requirement. the free ends of fiber into the gauge.
14
This sentence attempts to clarify that the requirements only apply to the nearly
4.36 Hemispheric-Shaped Objects—These requirements ap-
spherical end and not to non{spherical areas of the toy or component. In addition, the
term “adjoins” replaces the term “attached” as the handle and spherical end may be ply to toy cup-, bowl-, or one-half egg-shaped objects having
all part of the same molded piece. a nearly round, oval, or elliptical opening with the minor and
22
F963 − 11
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FIG. 17 Examples of Hemispherical and Domed Ends

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major inner dimensions between 2.5 in. (64 mm) and 4.0 in. 4.36.4 Non-detachable (as determined by testing in accor-
(102 mm), a volume of less than 6.0 oz (177 mL), a depth dance with 8.6 – 8.10 of this specification) components of
greater than 0.5 in. (13 mm), and intended for children under 3 larger products (for example, bowl-shaped smoke stack that is
years of age. The following are exempt from this requirement: permanently attached to a toy train or a swimming pool that is
4.36.1 Objects intended for drinking (for example, tea molded into a larger toy playscape).
cups). 4.36.5 Containers that are part of the retail package intended
4.36.2 Objects intended to hold liquids in products appro- to be discarded once the toy is removed from the package.
priate for children at least 2 years old (for example, pots and 4.36.6 Performance Requirements—Cup/bowl/one-half
pans). egg-shaped objects must have, as a minimum, one of the
4.36.3 Containers that must be airtight so the contents can following characteristics (a, b, c, d, or e). For purposes of these
maintain their functional integrity (for example, modeling clay requirements, unless otherwise specified, an opening is defined
containers.) as a hole of any shape with a minor dimension of 0.080 in. (2
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FIG. 18 Undercut and Diameter
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FIG. 19 Examples of Preschool Play Figures

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mm). These requirements apply before and after testing in

accordance with 8.6 – 8.10 of this specification.
(a) Have at least two openings that are a minimum of 0.5
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in. (13 mm) from the rim as measured along the outside
contour.
(1) If the openings are placed in the base of the object, at
least two of the openings must be a minimum of 0.5 in. (13 FIG. 20 Test Fixture for Small Balls
mm) apart. (See Fig. 21.)
(2) If the openings are not placed in the base of the object,
at least two of the openings must be placed at least 30° but not
more than 150° apart. (See Fig. 22.) (c) Have three openings that are at least 100° apart, located
(b) The plane of the open end of the cup shape shall be between 0.25 in. (6 mm) and 0.5 in. (13 mm) from the rim as
interrupted at the center by some type of divider that extends to measured along the outside contour.
0.25 in. (6 mm) or less from the plane of the open end of the (d) Have a repeating scalloped edge pattern around the
cup. (See Fig. 23 for an example.) entire rim. The maximum distance between center lines of
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FIG. 21 Openings in Base of Bowl
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FIG. 22 Opening Placement
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FIG. 23 Rib Through Cup Center

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adjacent peaks shall be 1 in. (25 mm) and the minimum depth the object, the edge of the opening must be at least 0.5 in. (13
shall be 0.25 in. (6 mm). (See Fig. 24 for examples of scalloped mm) from the rim as measured along the outside contour.
edge patterns.)
(e) Have an opening with a minor dimension of at least
0.66 in. (17 mm) located anywhere in the base or in the side
wall of the object. If the opening is located in the sidewall of
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FIG. 24 Scalloped Edge Pattern
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4.37 Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toys—These requirements are 4.39.3 Openings in handles and steering wheels that allow a
intended to address potential strangulation hazards associated 0.75 by 0.75 by 1 in. (1.9 by 1.9 cm by 2.5 cm) test fixture to
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with yo yo elastic tether toys intended for children 36 months pass completely through must also allow a 1.5 by 2.5 by 1 in.
and over. (3.8 by 6.35 by 2.5 cm) test fixture to pass completely through
4.37.1 Toys with an end mass greater than 0.02 kg (0.044 lb) (see Fig. 25). Test fixtures can be made of any rigid material.
shall have a tether length less than 50 cm (20 in.) measured The test fixture shall be oriented such that the 0.75-in. (1.9-cm)
when the toy is rotating at any speed up to a maximum speed dimension and the 2.5-in. (6.35-cm) dimension is parallel with
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of 80 r/min. Testing shall be conducted in accordance with the major dimension of the handle or steering wheel opening.
8.23.
4.37.2 Exemptions: 5. Labeling Requirements
(1) Paddle balls. 5.1 Federal Government Requirements—All toys that fall
(2) Sports balls with wrist or ankle straps longer than 70
cm (27.6 in.) intended to be kicked or thrown and returned to
the user. The length of the strap shall be measured when the
product is placed on a horizontal surface with no load.
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within the definitions and requirements of the U.S. FHSA shall
conform to the labeling requirement of that act. For specific
requirements, reference 16 CFR 1500.3, 1500.14, 1500.19,
1500.82, 1500.83, 1500.86, 1500.121, 1500.122, 1500.123,
4.38 Magnets—This requirement is intended to address 1500.125, 1500.126, 1500.127, 1500.128, 1500.130, 1505.3,
ingestion hazards associated with toys intended for children up and 1511.7. In addition, state labeling requirements may exist.
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to 14 years of age that contain a hazardous magnet. This 5.2 Age Grading Labeling—Toys that are subject to any of
requirement does not apply to magnets used in motors, relays, the requirements of this specification should be labeled to
speakers, electrical components, and similar devices where the indicate the minimum age for intended use or have such
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magnetic properties are not part of the play pattern of the toy. labeling on any retail packaging. If the toy or toy package is
4.38.1 Toys must not contain a loose as-received hazardous not age labeled in a clear and conspicuous manner or, based on
magnet or a loose as–received hazardous magnetic component. such factors as marketing practices and the customary patterns
4.38.2 Toys shall not liberate a hazardous magnet or a of usage of the toy by children, is inappropriately age labeled,
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hazardous magnetic component after being tested in accor- the toy shall be subjected to the most stringent applicable
dance with 8.8 and 8.9 and magnet use and abuse testing as requirements within this specification. (Examples: (1) a tensile
specified in 8.24. force of 15 lbf (67 N) shall be required instead of 10 lbf (45 N)
4.38.3 Hobby, craft, and science kit-type items intended for when testing in accordance with 8.9 if no limiting age range is
children over 8 years of age, where the finished product is specified; (2) the “highest age of the age range” in 4.15 would
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primarily of play value, that contain a loose as-received be 14 years, the maximum age addressed in the scope of this
hazardous magnet or a loose as-received hazardous magnetic specification.)
component, or both, are exempt from the requirements of 5.2.1 For certain toys, such as costumes and riding toys, it
4.38.1 and 4.38.2 provided they comply with the requirements may also be appropriate to label the toy or its package, or both,
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for safety labeling described in 5.17. in terms of height or weight limitations.

4.39 Jaw Entrapment in Handles and Steering Wheels: 5.2.2 Guidelines for determining the appropriate age grade
4.39.1 These requirements are intended to address potential for toys are provided in Annex A1 of this specification.
jaw entrapment in handles and steering wheels that are located 5.3 Safety Labeling Requirements—Certain toys, and in
such that they are accessible for teething in the following some cases their packages, are required to carry safety labeling
categories of toys intended for children under 18 months of to comply with this specification.
age: activity tables intended to be played with by a standing 5.3.1 Required safety labeling shall consist of an alert
child, large bulky toys, stationary floor toys, push toys intended symbol (an exclamation mark within an equilateral triangle), a
to be pushed by a child walking upright, and ride-on toys. signal word (CAUTION or WARNING), and text that de-
4.39.2 Handles that are connected to the toy with a hinge scribes the hazard that is present. Additionally, safety labeling
and handles made from a pliable material (for example, straps may contain text about what to do or not to do to avoid injury
and ropes) are exempt from this requirement. (for example, “Keep out of baby’s reach”). The signal word
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F963 − 11
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FIG. 25 Jaw Entrapment
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shall be in all upper case sans serif letters not less than 1⁄8 in. 5.3.5 For toy items packed as premiums in or on a package
(3.2 mm) in height and shall be center or left aligned. The alert containing other items, safety labeling shall be on the toy
symbol shall directly precede the signal word. The height of the package, and similar labeling shall appear on the larger
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triangle shall be at least the same height as the signal word. The package.
height of the exclamation point shall be at least half the height 5.3.6 All safety labeling shall be conspicuous and legible,
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of the triangle and be centered vertically in the triangle. Text shall be separated distinctively from any other wording or
describing the hazard(s) and hazard avoidance behavior(s) designs, and shall appear in the English language at a mini-
shall appear in sans serif lettering and shall be either left mum. Such labeling shall be clearly visible to the intended
aligned or center justified. Capital letters shall be no less than audience and shall be in a color contrasting with the back-
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1⁄16 in. (1.6 mm). Recognizing space constraints, it is

ground on which it appears.
recommended, that where possible, such text begin on the next
5.3.7 When safety labeling is printed onto the toy itself
line below the signal word, and that a new line be used for each
using a decoration process such as hot stamping, silk screening,
subsequent statement or separate thought.
or a similar process, it shall remain legible after normal use and
5.3.2 Sections 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.11, and 5.15 require the
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reasonably foreseeable abuse when tested in accordance with

signal word WARNING. When no signal word is specified for 8.5 – 8.10.
safety labeling in accordance with 5.3, it is recommended that
the signal word CAUTION be used to indicate a potentially 5.3.8 When safety labeling is affixed to a toy in the form of
hazardous situation which could result in minor or moderate an applied label, the label shall be applied so that it adheres
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injury, and that the signal word WARNING be used to indicate firmly to the toy and none of its edges is lifted off the surface
a potentially hazardous situation which could result in death or of the toy. Such label shall remain legible after normal use and
serious injury. reasonably foreseeable abuse when tested in accordance with
8.5 – 8.10.
5.3.3 Sections 5.11 and 5.15 specify required text describing
the hazard(s) and hazard avoidance behavior(s). When no 5.4 Aquatic Toys—Aquatic toys and their packages shall
required text is specified for safety labeling in accordance with carry safety labeling in accordance with 5.3, consisting of the
5.3, the text is left to the discretion of the manufacturer. signal word “WARNING” and contain, at a minimum, the
Sections 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, and 5.15.1.1 provide recommended following text or equivalent text which clearly conveys the
text to describe the hazard(s) and hazard avoidance behav- same warning: This is not a lifesaving device. Do not leave
ior(s). child unattended while device is in use. In addition, no
5.3.4 The required safety labeling described throughout advertising copy or graphics shall state or imply that the child
Section 5 shall be on the principal display panel. will be safe with such a toy if left unsupervised.
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F963 − 11
5.5 Crib and Playpen Toys—This requirement is applicable 5.10 Toys with Functional Sharp Edges or Points—Toys
to toys intended to be strung across a crib or playpen by means that are intended for use by children between the ages of 48 and
of string, cord, elastic, or straps (including, but not limited to, 96 months, which contain accessible potentially hazardous
crib exercisers, crib gyms, and activity toys). sharp edges or sharp points that are a necessary part of the
5.5.1 Age Grading—Crib and playpen toys, as well as their function of the toy, shall carry safety labeling on their packages
packages, shall be labeled with the following text or equivalent as defined in 5.3, stating that a sharp edge or sharp point, or
information (text or graphic), which clearly conveys the age both, exists.
grade: from birth to 5 months. 5.11 Small Objects, Small Balls, Marbles, and Balloons:
5.5.2 Safety Labeling—Crib and playpen toys shall carry 5.11.1 The packages of small balls, marbles, balloons, and
safety labeling, in accordance with 5.3, consisting of the signal certain toys and games, any descriptive material that accom-
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word “WARNING” and contain, at a minimum, the following panies them, and, if unpackaged and unlabeled, any retail
text or equivalent text which clearly conveys the same warn- display container provided by manufacturers or importers shall
ing: Possible entanglement or strangulation. Remove toy when carry safety labeling in accordance with 16 CFR 1500.19(b).
baby begins to push up on hands and knees. 5.11.1.1 In accordance with 16 CFR 1500.19(d), all labeling
statements required by 5.11 shall appear at least in the English
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5.6 Mobiles—This section addresses all mobiles intended to
be attached to a crib, playpen, wall, or ceiling. language on the principal display panel (except under 5.11.7)
5.6.1 Age Grading—Mobiles intended to be attached to a and shall be blocked together within a square or rectangular
crib or playpen, as well as their packages, shall be labeled with area, with or without a border. The label design, the use of
the following text or equivalent information (text or graphic), vignettes, or the proximity of other labeling or lettering shall
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which clearly conveys the age grade: from birth to 5 months. not obscure or render inconspicuous any labeling statement.
5.11.1.2 The statements required by 5.11 must appear on at
5.6.2 Safety Labeling:
least two lines and appear on a solid background and be
5.6.2.1 Mobiles intended to be attached to a crib or playpen, separated from all other graphic material by a space no smaller
and mobiles intended to be attached to a crib or playpen and than the minimum allowable height of the type size for “other
later moved to a wall or ceiling, as well as their packages, shall
carry safety labeling in accordance with 5.3. The labeling shall
consist of the signal word “WARNING” and contain, at a
minimum, the following text or equivalent text which clearly
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cautionary material” (for example the phrase “Not for children
under 3 yrs.”). If not separated by that distance, the labeling
statements must be surrounded by a border line.
5.11.1.3 All labeling statements required by 5.11 shall
conveys the same warning: Possible entanglement injury. Keep comply with the following type size requirements based on the
out of baby’s reach. Remove mobile from crib or playpen when computed area of the principal display panel. For these
baby begins to push up on hands and knees.
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purposes, Signal Word means the word “Warning” and the
5.6.2.2 Mobiles intended to be attached only to a wall or words “Safety Warning”; Statement of Hazard means “Chok-
ceiling, as well as their packages, shall carry safety labeling in ing Hazard”; Other Material means all other remaining state-
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accordance with 5.3. The labeling shall consist of the signal ments.
word “WARNING” and contain, at a minimum, the following
Area, in.2 0–2 +2–5 +5–10 +10–15 +15–30 +30–100 +100–400 +400
text or equivalent text which clearly conveys the same warn- Type Size— 3/64 in. 1/16 in. 3/32 in. 7/64 in. 1/8 in. 5/32 in. 1
/4 in. 1/2 in.
ing: Possible entanglement injury. Keep toy out of baby’s Signal
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reach. Word
Type Size— 3/64 in. 3/64 in. 1/16 in. 3/32 in. 3/32 in. 7/64 in. 5
/32 in. 1/4 in.
5.7 Stroller and Carriage Toys—Toys intended exclusively Statement
of Hazard
to be strung across strollers or carriages by means of string, Type Size— 1/32 in. 3/64 in. 1/16 in. 1/16 in. 5/64 in. 3/32 in. 7
/64 in. 5/32 in.
cords, elastic, or straps shall carry safety labeling in accordance Other
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with 5.3. The labeling shall consist of the signal word “WARN- Material
ING” and contain, at a minimum, the following text or 5.11.1.4 An equilateral triangle with an exclamation point
equivalent text which clearly conveys the same warning: (shown in 5.11.2) shall precede the signal word. The height of
Possible entanglement or strangulation injury when attached the triangle shall be equal to or exceed the height of the letters
to crib or playpen. Do not attach to crib or playpen. of the signal word “WARNING” and separated from it by a
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distance at least equal to the space occupied by the first letter

5.8 Toys Intended to be Assembled By an Adult—Packages
of the signal word. The height of the exclamation point shall be
of toys that are intended to be assembled by an adult and that
at least half the height of the triangle, and be centered vertically
in their unassembled state contain potentially hazardous sharp
in the triangle.
edges or points, or small parts if the toy is intended for children
5.11.2 For toys and games intended for children at least 3
under 3 years of age, shall carry safety labeling in accordance
years old but less than 6 years of age, and which contain
with 5.3 stating that the toy is to be assembled by an adult.
as-received small part(s), the labeling shall read:
5.9 Simulated Protective Devices—Toys that simulate safety " WARNING:
protective devices (examples include, but are not limited to, CHOKING HAZARD—Small parts.
construction helmets and sports helmets), as well as their Not for children under 3 yrs.
packages, shall carry safety labeling as defined in 5.3, stating 5.11.3 For any small ball intended for children 3 years of
that these toys are not safety protective devices. age or older the labeling shall read:
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F963 − 11
" WARNING: 5.14 Electric Toys—Refer to 16 CFR 1505.3 for required

CHOKING HAZARD—Toy contains a small ball. labeling.
Not for children under 3 yrs.
5.15 Battery-Operated Toys—Toys with non-replaceable
5.11.3.1 For any toy or game intended for children who are
batteries that are accessible with the use of a coin, screwdriver,
at least 3 years old but less than 8 years of age that contains a
or other common household tool shall bear a statement that the
small ball the labeling shall read:
battery is not replaceable. If the manufacturer determines that
" WARNING:
CHOKING HAZARD—Toy contains a small ball.
it is impractical to label the product, this information shall be
Not for children under 3 yrs. placed on the packaging or in the instructions.
5.11.4 For any marble intended for children 3 years of age 5.15.1 Battery-Powered Ride-on Toys:
or older the labeling shall read: 5.15.1.1 Battery powered ride-on toys shall carry safety
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labeling in accordance with 5.3, consisting of the signal word
" WARNING:
CHOKING HAZARD—This toy is a marble.
“WARNING” and contain, at a minimum, text which clearly
Not for children under 3 yrs. conveys the following:
5.11.4.1 For any toy or game intended for children who are (a) To reduce the risk of injury, adult supervision is
at least 3 years of age but less than 8 years of age that contains required. Never use in roadways, near motor vehicles, on or
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a marble the labeling shall read: near steep inclines or steps, swimming pools or other bodies of
water; always wear shoes, and never allow more than ____
" WARNING:
CHOKING HAZARD—Toy contains a marble. rider(s)
Not for children under 3 yrs. (b) RISK OF FIRE. Do not bypass. Replace only with
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5.11.5 For any latex balloon or any toy or game that ____. (Note: This warning must be placed at the location of any
contains a latex balloon, the labeling shall read: user replaceable fuse or circuit protection device. Manufacturer
" WARNING:
should state the part number or equivalent.
CHOKING HAZARD—Children under 8 yrs. can choke or 5.15.1.2 The packaging or point-of-sale literature of battery-
suffocate on uninflated or broken balloons. powered ride-on toys shall state the manufacturer’s recom-
Adult supervision required.
Keep uninflated balloons from children.

Discard broken balloons at once.
5.11.6 Combination of Labeling Statements—The labels of

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mended user age or weight limitations for use of the toy, or
both.
5.15.1.3 The packaging or point-of-sale literature of battery-
powered ride-on toys shall bear the warnings as specified in
products that contain more than one item subject to the 5.15.1.
requirements of 5.11 may combine information, if the con- 5.16 Promotional Materials—Packaging, literature accom-
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densed statement contains all of the information necessary to panying toys, and point-of-sale presentations shall not use
describe the potential hazard associated with each product. For words, statements, or graphics that are inconsistent in any way
products that contain a balloon and a small ball, small object,
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with the safety labeling instructions for use or assembly or age

or marble, only the signal word and statement of hazard may be grading of the toy.
combined.
5.17 Magnets—The packaging and instructions of hobby
5.11.7 Alternative Labeling Statements for Items Subject to
and crafts items and science kit-type items for children over 8
the Requirements of 5.11—Labeling statements on small pack-
years of age which contain a loose as-received hazardous
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ages of toys or balloons that have a principal display panel of

magnet or a loose as-received hazardous magnetic component
15 in.2 or less and that display cautionary statements in three or
shall carry safety labeling in accordance with 5.3. The labeling
more languages may appear on a display panel other than the
shall consist of the signal word “WARNING” and contain, at a
principal display panel if the principal display panel bears the
minimum, the following text or equivalent text which clearly
appropriate statement below and bears an arrow or other
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conveys the same warning: “This product contains (a) small

indicator pointing toward or directing the purchaser’s attention
magnets(s). Swallowed magnets can stick together across
to the display panel on the package where the full labeling
intestines causing serious infections and death. Seek immediate
statement appears.
medical attention if magnet(s) are swallowed or inhaled.”
5.11.7.1 For a toy or game that is or contains a small object,
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small ball, or marble:

6. Instructional Literature
" SAFETY WARNING
6.1 Definition and Description—Information and instruc-
5.11.7.2 For a balloon or a toy or game that contains a tions that are provided for the safe use or assembly, or both, of
balloon: a toy, whether on the package or in leaflet form, shall be easy
" WARNING—Choking Hazard to read and understand by persons of the age level for whom
5.12 Toy Caps—Refer to 16 CFR 1500.86 for required the instructions and information are intended, including, if
labeling. appropriate, children for whom the toy is intended. All such
5.13 Art Materials—Toys and components of toys that fall literature shall be shown in the English language at a mini-
within the definition of art material as found in 16 CFR mum.
1500.14 (b) (8) shall be labeled in accordance with the 6.2 Crib and Playpen Toys—Toys intended to be strung
provisions of that section and Practice D4236. across a crib or playpen by means of string, cords, elastic, or
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F963 − 11
straps (including, but not limited to, crib exercisers, crib gyms, 6.5.3.4 Only use the battery(ies) specified by the
and activity toys) shall be provided with instructions for proper manufacturer, and
assembly, installation, and use to insure that the product does 6.5.3.5 Only use the charger(s) specified by the manufac-
not present an entanglement or strangulation hazard. The turer.
instructions shall include at least the following information: 6.6 Toys in Contact with Food—The packages or
6.2.1 This toy is not intended to be “mouthed” by the baby instructions, or both, for toys and their components intended to
and should be positioned clearly out of reach of the baby’s face be used in contact with food shall be labeled to alert caregivers
and mouth. to wash the product thoroughly before use.
6.2.2 On cribs with adjustable mattress levels, the highest
position may allow the toy to be too close to the baby. The 7. Producer’s Markings
second or lower position is more appropriate.
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7.1 Either a principal component of a toy or the package of
6.2.3 The drop side of the crib should never be lowered with a toy shall be marked with the name and address of the
the toy in place and the baby left unattended. producer or the distributor. In the case of toys sold in bulk, such
6.2.4 Always attach all provided fasteners (strings, straps, as jacks or marbles, only the container need be marked. All of
clamps, etc.) tightly to a crib or playpen according to the these markings shall be legible and so positioned as to be seen
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instructions. Check frequently. easily by the customer and shall resist normal use conditions.
6.2.5 Do not add additional strings or straps to attach to a Toys may carry a code that will enable the producer to identify
crib or playpen. model changes except for toys comprising many loose
6.3 Mobiles—Mobiles intended to be mounted on a crib, components, in which case the container may be so coded.
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playpen, or wall or ceiling nearby shall be provided with 7.2 Battery-Powered Ride-on Toys—Battery-powered
instructions for proper assembly, installation, and use to insure ride-on toys shall bear a permanent label or marking identify-
that the product does not present an entanglement hazard. The ing the manufacturer or distributor, place of business, the
instructions shall include at least the following information: model numbers, and a date of manufacture or date code that
6.3.1 A crib mobile is intended for visual stimulation and is
not intended to be grasped by the child.
6.3.2 If attached to the crib or playpen, remove when baby
begins to push up on hands and knees. If so designed, mount on
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will allow determination of, at a minimum, the month and year
of manufacture.
8. Test Methods
wall or ceiling clearly out of a standing baby’s reach. 8.1 General—The inspection and test procedures contained
6.3.3 If mounted on a wall or ceiling, install the mobile herein are to be used to determine the conformance of products
clearly out of a standing baby’s reach. to the requirements of this specification. All types of toys
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6.3.4 Always attach all provided fasteners (strings, straps, covered by this specification must undergo the normal use and
clamps, etc.) tightly to a crib or playpen according to the abuse tests in accordance with 8.5 – 8.10. The remaining tests
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instructions. Check frequently. in this section apply to types of toys as specified within the
6.3.5 Do not add additional strings or straps to attach to a requirements of Section 4. The relevant tests for a type of toy
crib or playpen. can be performed in any order except where specified. Each
test may be conducted on a different toy unless otherwise
6.4 Toys Intended to be Assembled By an Adult—Assembly
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specified. The tests can be considered as qualification tests and

instructions that accompany toys that are intended to be not necessarily as quality control tests. These tests shall also be
assembled by an adult and that in their unassembled state conducted when there is a design or material change in the toy.
contain potentially hazardous sharp edges or sharp points, or Each producer or distributor who represents his products as
small parts if the toy is intended for children under 3 years of conforming to this specification may use statistically based
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age, shall carry safety labeling as defined in 5.3 and also state sampling plans that are appropriate, but he shall keep such
that the toy is to be assembled by an adult. essential records as are necessary to document with a high
6.5 Battery-Operated Toys—For toys that use more than one degree of assurance his claim that all of the requirements of
battery in one circuit, the instructions or the toy shall be this specification have been met. Any test methods that are
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marked with the following (or equivalent) information. made mandatory by the CPSC shall supersede any applicable
6.5.1 Do not mix old and new batteries. test methods in this section.
6.5.2 Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc), or re- 8.2 Testing for Hazardous Substance Content—The appli-
chargeable (nickel-cadmium) batteries. cable sections of 16 CFR, issued under the FHSA to be used for
6.5.3 Instructions supplied with battery-powered ride-on determining the presence of hazardous substances, are given in
toys shall contain guidance for safe use and maintenance of the Table 4. The references in Table 4 refer to the regulations
toy. The instructions shall include at least the following: issued on Sept. 27, 1973.
6.5.3.1 Maximum weight or age limitations, or both, for NOTE 6—The latest issue of the regulation shall be used to determine
safe use of the toy, compliance of the toy with the requirements of this specification. The
6.5.3.2 The kinds of surfaces which are appropriate for safe requirements of the FHSA are mandatory by law.
use of the toy, 8.3 Test Methods for Determination of Heavy Element
6.5.3.3 The warning statements contained in 5.15.1.1, Content in Toys, Toy Components and Materials:
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F963 − 11
TABLE 4 Determination of Hazardous Substance Content
Hazardous Substance Regulation (Title 16 CFR)
Toxic substance 1500.3(b)5, 1500.3(c)2, and 1500.40
Corrosive substance 1500.3(b)7, 1500.3(c)3, and 1500.41
Irritant substance 1500.3(b)8, 1500.3(c)4, 1500.41, and 1500.42
Strong sensitizer 1500.3(b)9, 1500.3(c)5, and 1500.13
Pressure-generating substance 1500.3(c)7
Radioactive substance 1500.3(b)11 and 1500.3(c)8
Flammability 1500.3(b)10, 1500.3(c)6, 1500.43, and 1610.
8.3.1 Total Element Content Screening: following specifications: (a) Nominal wire diameter: 0.315 µm;
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8.3.1.1 Toy material under test is to be digested per the (b) Maximum size deviation for an individual opening: 60.090
appropriate CPSC Method: µm; (c) Tolerance for average opening: 60.018 mm; and (d) 6
(1) CPSC-CH-E1001-08.1 (metal substrates) % or fewer of the openings to exceed the nominal plus 0.054
(2) CPSC-CH-E1002-08.1 (non-metal substrates) mm.
(3) CPSC-CH-E1003-09 (paint and similar surface-coating (2) pH, a means of measuring pH with a minimum accu-
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materials) racy of 0.2 pH units.
8.3.1.2 With the following modification: Concentrated (3) Membrane Filter, with a pore size of 0.45 µm.
HNO3 digestant is to be replaced with aqua regia (three parts (4) Centrifuge, capable of centrifuging at 5000 6 500 × g
concentrated HCl to one part concentrated HNO3). Glass and RCF (g = 9.80665 m/s2)
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ceramic components shall be digested using three parts HF to (5) A means to constantly agitate the mixture at a tempera-
one part HNO3. Certain polymeric materials such as PVC and ture of 37 6 2°C.
CPVC may require use of three parts concentrated HNO3 to (6) Container, of gross volume between 1.6 and 5.0 times
one part 30 % H2O2 for complete digestion; in all cases, that of the volume of HCL extractant.
knowledge-based adjustments to the above digestant mixtures 8.3.2.2 Reagents—Use only reagents of recognized analyti-
on a case-by-case basis may be necessary for products made
from certain materials, and are allowable so long as complete
digestion is achieved and avoidance of formation of insoluble
metal salts is taken into consideration. In all cases, the use of
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cal grade during the analysis.
(1) Hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution; concentration =
(0.07 6 0.005) mol/l.
(2) Hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution; concentration =
concentrated H2SO4 is to be avoided to reduce the possibility (0.14 6 0.010) mol/l.
of the formation of insoluble metal sulfates. (3) Hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution; concentration = ap-
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8.3.1.3 Resulting digested material is to be filtered and proximately 1 mol/l.
diluted as prescribed, then analyzed by atomic spectroscopy or (4) Hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution; concentration = 2
other appropriate validated method for total content of all eight mol/l.
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elements listed in Table 1 and Table 2; if results are below (5) Hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution; concentration = ap-
soluble limits for each element as prescribed in the appropriate proximately 6 mol/l.
table, the material can be considered to conform to require- (6) n-heptane, (C7H16); 99 %.
ments of 4.3.5 or 4.3.5.2, or both, without further testing. If (7) Water, of at least grade 3 purity in accordance with
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soluble limits in the appropriate table are exceeded, additional Specification D1193 or ISO 3696.
testing per 8.3.2 (for paint and similar surface-coating materi- 8.3.3 Preparation of Test Samples—A laboratory sample for
als) or 8.3.5 (substrate materials) will be required to confirm testing shall consist of a toy in the form in which it is marketed,
compliance. In addition, if the toy or toy component is a excluding the package and packaging components.
metallic small part, it is to be tested per 8.3.5.5(3). Composite
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8.3.3.1 The test sample shall be taken from the accessible

samples of up to three like materials (for example, three colors portions of a single toy sample.
of polystyrene plastic) are acceptable (if performed in accor- 8.3.3.2 Identical materials in the sample may be combined
dance with Annex A7) for total element screening, but not for and treated as a single sample. A single sample may not consist
soluble element testing if such is required. of more than one material or color (that is, composite testing is
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NOTE 7—With the exception of required total lead content testing (see not allowed).
4.3.5.1), it may be elected to omit total element screening and perform 8.3.3.3 The test sample can alternatively be taken from
only soluble element testing per 8.3.2 – 8.3.6. materials in a form such that they are representative of the
8.3.2 Method to Dissolve Soluble Matter for Surface relevant material specified above.
Coatings—Soluble elements are extracted from toys under 8.3.3.4 When a toy is intended to be taken apart or can be
conditions that simulate the situation in which the materials taken apart without the use of tools, each piece shall be
stay 4 h in the alimentary tract after swallowing. The content of considered separately.
soluble elements in the extract is determined. 8.3.3.5 For reference purposes, the sample may be taken
8.3.2.1 Apparatus—Normal laboratory apparatus and the from the raw material rather than scraped from the sample.
following: 8.3.3.6 Scrape the coating off the test sample, and grind it
(1) Metal Sieve, plain weave wire mesh stainless steel through the sieve. Obtain a portion of not less than 100 mg of
metal sieve with a nominal opening of 0.5 mm and the the resulting material.
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F963 − 11
(1) Where there is only between 10 and 100 mg of mg/kg.
uniformly ground material available, test that quantity and The result exceeds the allowed value for chromium in the table
calculate the results as if 100 mg of the sample had been and is therefore not acceptable.
available. The report should note this procedure and the actual 8.3.5 Soluble Element Test Method for Substrate
sample amount. Materials—Soluble elements are extracted from toy materials
(2) If there is less than 10 mg of sample available, the test under conditions which simulate the material remaining in
is not performed. contact with stomach acid for a period of time after swallow-
(3) In the case of coatings that by their nature cannot be ing. The concentrations of the soluble elements are determined
ground (for example, elastic, rubber, or plastic paint), test the quantitatively.
sample as it was removed from the toy.
NOTE 10—Optional, alternate test methods are permitted, as described
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NOTE 8—The methods and exclusions given in 8.3.3.1 do not apply to in 8.3.6.
surface coatings being tested for total lead content as required by 16 CFR
1303. Total lead determination under CPSC requirements at 16 CFR 1303 8.3.5.1 Apparatus—As described in 8.3.2.1.
applies to any coating that can be scraped off, regardless of the amount, 8.3.5.2 Reagents—As described in 8.3.2.2.
with results calculated based on the actual sample weight.
8.3.5.3 Selection of Test Portions:
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8.3.4 Test Procedures: (1) A laboratory sample for testing shall consist of a toy
8.3.4.1 Prepare a test portion in accordance with 8.3.3. either in the form in which it is marketed, or in the form in
8.3.4.2 Mix the test portion so prepared with 50 times its which it is intended to be marketed. Test portions shall be taken
mass of an aqueous solution of 0.07 mol/L hydrochloric acid at from accessible parts of a single toy sample, that is, identical
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37 6 2°C. In the case of a test portion of less than 100 mg, mix materials in the toy may be combined and treated as a single
the test portion with 5.0 mL of this solution at the given test portion but additional toy samples shall not be used. Test
temperature. Shake for 1 min. portions are only permitted to be composed of more than one
(1) Check the acidity of the mixture. If the pH is greater material or color where physical separation (for example, dot
than 1.5, add dropwise while shaking an aqueous solution of 2 printing), patterned textiles or mass limitation reasons, pre-
mol/L (7.3 % m/m) hydrochloric acid until the pH is between
1.0 and 1.5. Protect the mixture from light. Shake the mixture
efficiently for 1 h continuously, and then allow the mixture to
stand for 1 h at 37 6 2°C.
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cludes the formation of discrete specimens.
(2) Test portions where less than 10 mg of material
available are not tested.
(2) Without delay, separate the solids from the mixture by NOTE 11—The requirement does not preclude that test portions can be
taken from materials in a form such that they are representative of the
filtration through a membrane filter with a pore size of 0.45 µm. relevant material specified above and the substrate upon which they are
If necessary, centrifuge at 5000 g for no longer than 10 min.
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deposited.
Analyze the solution by atomic spectroscopy or other appro-
priate validated method to determine the concentration of the 8.3.5.4 Polymeric and similar materials including laminates,
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elements identified in 4.3.5.1. If it is not possible to examine whether reinforced textile or not, but excluding other textiles.
the sample within one working day, stabilize by the addition of (1)Sample Removal/Preparation Procedure:
hydrochloric acid so that the resulting solution HCl concentra- (a) Obtain a test portion of not less than 100 mg of the
tion is approximately 1 mol/L. polymeric or similar materials, avoiding heating of the
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materials, according to the following directions.

NOTE 9—It has been shown that the extraction of soluble cadmium can
reveal a two-fold to five-fold increase when extraction is conducted in the (b) Cut out test portions from the areas having the thinnest
light rather than the dark. material cross section in order to ensure a surface area of the
8.3.4.3 The analytical results as determined in 8.3.4.2 shall test pieces as large as possible in proportion to their mass. Each
test piece shall in the uncompressed condition have no dimen-
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be adjusted by subtracting the analytical correction factor in the

following table using the following method. This is necessary sion greater than 6 mm.
to make statistical correction for interlaboratory error. (c) If the laboratory sample is not uniform in its material, a
Analytical Correction
test portion shall be obtained from each different material
Element Sb As Ba Cd Cr Pb Hg Se present in a mass greater than 10 mg. In the case where there
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Analytical 60 60 30 30 30 30 50 60 is between 10 and 100 mg of uniform material the mass of the

correction, %
test portion shall be reported in the test report and the quantity
(1) Example of Calculations Using the Table: of the appropriate elements shall be calculated and reported as
Example 1—The analytical result for lead is 120 mg/kg; the if 100 mg of the test portion had been used.
correction factor from the table is 30 % (0.30). (2)Test Procedure—As described in 8.3.4.2 and 8.3.4.3.
Adjusted analytical results = 120 – (120 × 0.30) = 120 – 36 = 8.3.5.5 Glass/Ceramic/Metallic Materials:
84 mg/kg. (1)Sample Removal/Preparation Procedure—Toys and com-
The result does not exceed the allowed value for lead in the ponents shall be first subjected to the relevant tests in accor-
table and is therefore acceptable. dance with Section 8. If any accessible glass, ceramic or
Example 2—The analytical result for chromium is 90 ug/kg: metallic materials of the toy fits entirely within the small parts
the correction factor from the table is 30 % (0.30). cylinder (see Fig. 3) before or after use and abuse testing, it
Adjusted analytical results = 90 – (90 × 0.30) = 90 – 27 = 63 shall be tested in accordance with 8.3.5.5(2) after removal of
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F963 − 11
any coating in accordance with CPSC method CPSC-CH- (b) If the laboratory sample is not uniform in its material, a
E1003-09; metallic materials are also to be tested in accor- test portion shall be obtained from each different material
dance with 8.3.5.5(3) after removal of any coating in accor- present in a mass greater than 10 mg. Where there is between
dance with CPSC method CPSC-CH-E1003-09. 10 and 100 mg of uniform material, the mass of the test portion
shall be reported in the test report, and the quantity of the
NOTE 12—Toys and components that have no accessible glass, ceramic
or metallic materials are not tested according to 8.3.5.5. If a toy or appropriate elements shall be calculated and reported as if 100
component that is subject to testing per 8.3.5.5 consists of a combination mg of the test portion had been used.
of metallic and non-metallic materials (for example, a steel nut with a (c) If the material to be tested is coated with paint, varnish,
nylon locking insert), the non-metallic material is to be mechanically lacquer, printing ink or similar material, remove this material
separated from the metallic material prior to the test, and only the metallic
component is subjected to testing per 8.3.5.5; the non-metallic component per in accordance with CPSC method CPSC-CH-E1003-09
prior to testing per 8.3.5.6(2).
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is to be tested per the section of this standard applicable to the material
type. (2)Test Procedures—The materials shall be tested by the
(2)Test Procedure – Standard Soluble Elements: most appropriate method under 8.3. The method used shall be
(a) Place the toy or component in a 50 mL glass container reported in the test report.
with nominal dimensions: height 60 mm, diameter 40 mm. Add 8.3.5.7 Materials Intended to Leave a Trace:
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a sufficient volume of an aqueous solution of 0.07 M HCl at 37 (1)Sample Removal/Preparation Procedure for Materials in
6 2°C to just cover the toy or component. Cover the container, Solid Form:
protect the contents from light and allow the contents to stand (a) Obtain a test portion of not less than 100 mg of the
for 2 h at 37 6 2°C. material by cutting into test pieces, which in the uncompressed
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NOTE 13—This type of container will accommodate all components/
condition shall have no dimensions greater than 6 mm.
toys that fit inside the small parts cylinder. (b) A test portion shall be obtained from each different
(b) Without delay, efficiently separate the solids from the material intended to leave a trace, present in the laboratory
solution, firstly by decantation followed by filtration using a sample in a mass greater than 10 mg. Where there is between
10 and 100 mg of material, the mass of the test portion shall be
membrane filter, and if necessary, by centrifuging at up to 5000
g.
(c) Separation shall be completed as soon as possible after
the completion of the standing time; centrifuging shall take no
longer than 10 min and shall be reported in the test report. If
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reported in the test report and the quantity of the appropriate
elements shall be calculated and reported as if 100 mg of the
test portion had been used. If the material contains any grease,
oil, wax or similar material, the test portion shall be enclosed
the resulting solutions are to kept for more than 24 h prior to in hardened filter-paper and these ingredients shall be removed
analysis they shall be stabilized by addition of hydrochloric with n-heptane using solvent extraction.
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acid so that the HCl concentration of the stored solution is (2)Sample Removal/Preparation Procedure for Materials in
approximately 1.0 M. Liquid Form:
(a) Obtain a test portion of not less than 100 mg of the
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(d) Analyze the solution for element content using atomic

spectroscopy or other validated test methods. material from the laboratory sample. The use of an appropriate
(3)Test Procedure-Special Soluble Cadmium (apply to me- solvent to facilitate the obtaining of a test portion is permitted.
tallic small parts only): (b) A test portion shall be obtained from each different
(a) Metal toys and toy components which, either before or material intended to leave a trace, present in the laboratory
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after use-and-abuse testing per Section 8, fit entirely within the sample in a mass greater than 10 mg. Where there is between
small parts cylinder (see Fig. 3) shall be tested per CPSC test 10 and 100 mg of material, the mass of the test portion shall be
method CPSC-CH-E1004-11. At the conclusion of the pre- reported in the test report and the quantity of the appropriate
scribed 24-h extraction test, efficiently separate, without delay, elements shall be calculated and reported as if 100 mg of the
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the solids from the solution, firstly by decantation followed by test portion had been used. If the material is intended to
filtration using a membrane filter, and if necessary, by centri- solidify in normal use and contains grease, oil, wax or similar
fuging at up to 5000 g. Separation shall be completed as soon material, the test portion shall be allowed to solidify under
as possible after the completion of the extraction time; centri- normal use conditions and the resulting material shall be
fuging shall take no longer than 10 min and shall be reported enclosed in hardened filter-paper and the grease, oil, wax or
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in the test report. If the resulting solutions are to be kept for similar material shall be removed with n-heptane by using
more than 24 h prior to analysis they shall be stabilized by solvent extraction.
addition of hydrochloric acid so that the HCl concentration of (3)Test Procedure for Samples not Containing Grease, Oil,
the stored solution is approximately 1.0 M. Stored solutions Wax or Similar Material:
shall be protected from light to the extent practicable. (a) Using the appropriately sized container, mix the test
(b) Analyze the solution for cadmium content using atomic portion so prepared with 50 times its mass of an aqueous
spectroscopy or other validated test methods. solution at 37 6 2°C of 0.07 M HCl (see 8.3.2.2). For a test
8.3.5.6 Other Materials, Whether Mass Colored or Not: portion mass of between 10 and 100 mg, mix the test portion
(1)Sample Removal/Preparation Procedures: with 5.0 mL of this solution at 37 6 2°C. Shake for 1 min.
(a) Obtain a test portion of not less than 100 mg of the Check the acidity of the mixture.
material according to 8.3.5.3 or 8.3.5.4, whichever is more (b) If the ph of the resulting solution is greater than 1.5,
appropriate. adjust the pH to between 1.0 and 1.5. If the pH is 2.5 or less,
33
F963 − 11
add dropwise, while shaking the mixture, 2 M HCl until the pH representative tests could be either the tests contained in 8.3.1,
is between 1.0 and 1.5; if the pH is greater than 2.5, add 8.3.2, or 8.3.3, or alternate tests which utilize apparatus or
dropwise, while shaking the mixture, 6M HCl until the pH is procedures, or both, other than those in 8.3. The following
between 2.50 and 1.5, then add dropwise, while shaking the paragraphs set forth the conditions under which alternate tests
mixture, 2 M HCl until the pH is between 1.0 and 1.5. The with apparatus or procedures other than those described in 8.3,
amount of hydrochloric acid used in relation to the amount of inclusive, will be considered reasonable and representative.
solution shall be reported in the test report. 8.3.6.1 Persons and firms determining the compliance of
(c) Protect the mixture from light. Agitate the mixture at 37 materials subject to the requirements contained in 4.3.5 may
6 2°C (see 8.3.4.2) for 1 h continuously and then allow to base those determinations on any alternate test utilizing appa-
stand for 1 h at 37 6 2°C. ratus or procedures other than those in 8.3, inclusive, if such
(d) Without delay, efficiently separate the solids from the alternate test is as stringent as, or more stringent than, the tests
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solution, firstly by filtration using a membrane filter and, if in 8.3, inclusive. An alternate test is considered to be “as
necessary, by centrifuging at up to 5000 g. Separation shall be stringent as, or more stringent than” a test in 8.3 if, when
completed as soon as possible after the completion of the testing identical specimens, the alternate test yields failing
standing time; centrifuging shall take no longer than 10 min results as often as, or more often than, the test in 8.3, inclusive.
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and shall be noted in the test report. Any person using such an alternate test must have data or
(e) If the resulting solutions are to be kept for more than the information to demonstrate that the alternate test is as stringent
working day prior to analysis they shall be stabilized by as, or more stringent than, the test in 8.3, inclusive. For
addition of hydrochloric acid so that the concentration of the example XRF screening in accordance with Test Method
stored solution is approximately 1.0M HCl. F2853 protocol could be used if determined to be a more
SO
(f) Analyze the solution for element content using atomic stringent test method to the extent applicable for the material
spectroscopy or other validated test methods. tested.
(4)Test Procedure for Samples Containing Grease, Oil, Wax 8.3.6.2 The data or information required by paragraph
or Similar Material: 8.3.6.1 to demonstrate equivalent or greater stringency of any
(a) With the test portion remaining in the hardened filter-
paper, macerate the test portion so prepared with 25 times the
mass of the original material with water at 37 6 2°C so that the
resulting mixture is homogeneous. Quantitatively transfer the
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alternate test using apparatus or procedures other than those in
8.3, inclusive, must be in the possession of the person or firm
desiring to use such alternate test before the alternate test may
be used to support a determination of compliance against the
mixture to the appropriate sized container. Add to the mixture requirements contained in 4.3.5.
an aqueous solution of 0.14 M HCl at 37 6 2°C in the 8.3.6.3 The data or information required by paragraph
proportion of 25 times the mass of the original test portion. In 8.3.6.1 to demonstrate equivalent or greater stringency of any
O
the case of a test portion mass between 10 and 100 mg alternate test using apparatus or procedures other than those in
macerate the test portion with 2.5 mL of water. Quantitatively 8.3, inclusive, must be retained for as long as that alternate test
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transfer the mixture to the appropriate sized container. Add 2.5 is used to support determinations of compliance against the
ml of 0.14 M HCl at 37 6 2°C to the mixture. Shake for 1 min. requirements contained in 4.3.5, and for one year thereafter.
(b) Check the acidity of the mixture. The amount of (1) Alternate method acceptability requires rigorous statis-
hydrochloric acid used in relation to the amount of solution tical analysis of limits of acceptability to show consistency of
results of alternate methods to prescribed method results. This
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shall be reported in the test report. Protect the mixture from

light. Agitate the mixture at 37 6 2°C for 1 h continuously and analysis must be performed separately for each substrate type
then allow to stand for 1 h at 37 6 2°C. and heavy element (for example, results for cadmium in metal
may not be automatically assumed to apply to barium in
NOTE 14—The volume of the solution 0.07 M HCl or 0.14 M HCl , as plastic, etc.). Alternate methods, once validated, should be
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the case may be, is calculated based on the mass of the test portion prior submitted to ASTM for inclusion in the standard to avoid
to de-waxing.
inconsistency of results.
(c) Without delay, efficiently separate the solids from the
solution, firstly by filtration using a membrane filter and, if 8.4 Tests for Cleanliness and Preservative Effectiveness:
necessary, by centrifuging at up to 5000 g. Separation shall be 8.4.1 Cleanliness of Materials—The cleanliness of
DO
completed as soon as possible after the completion of the cosmetics, liquids, pastes, putties, gels, and powders used in
standing time; centrifuging shall take no longer than 10 min toys (excluding art materials) shall be determined using the
and shall be noted in the test report. methods in USP 24 <61> Microbial Limits Tests or the most
(d) If the resulting solutions are to be kept for more than the current edition of the U.S. Pharmacopeia.15 Another method
working day prior to analysis they shall be stabilized by may be substituted provided it has been properly validated as
addition of hydrochloric acid so that the concentration of the giving equivalent or better results, as specified in USP 24 <61>
stored solution is approximately 1.0 M HCl.
(e) Analyze the solution for element content using atomic 15
Reagent Chemicals, American Chemical Society Specifications , American
spectroscopy or other validated test methods. Chemical Society, Washington, DC. For Suggestions on the testing of reagents not
listed by the American Chemical Society, see Analar Standards for Laboratory
8.3.6 Alternative Methods—For purposes of determining
Chemicals, BDH Ltd., Poole, Dorset, U.K., and the United States Pharmacopeia
compliance with the requirements contained in 4.3.5, “reason- and National Formulary, U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. (USPC), Rockville,
able and representative tests” shall be used. Reasonable and MD.
34
F963 − 11
or the most current edition of the U.S. Pharmacopeia. In 8.5.1 Washable Toys—Toys described as machine washable
conjunction with the chosen test method, the limits for deter- on the toy, package, or instructions shall be subjected to six
mining the cleanliness of materials will consist of the most machine washing and tumble drying cycles, as described in
current guidelines for cosmetics set forth by the Cosmetic, 8.5.1.1, unless a different drying method is specified by the toy
Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA). manufacturer by means of a permanent label. They shall then
8.4.2 Preservative Effectiveness—The formulations of cos- be inspected for compliance with this specification.
metics used in toys shall be evaluated for the potential 8.5.1.1 Conditions for Machine Washing and Tumble
microbiological degradation, or they shall be tested for micro- Drying—Any commercially available top-loading washer,
bial control and preservative effectiveness using the methods dryer, or laundry detergent intended for use in the home may be
and limits in USP 24 <51> Antimicrobial Effectiveness Testing used for this test. The weight of each toy is determined prior to
or the most current edition of the U.S. Pharmacopeia. the beginning of the test. The toys, plus a dummy load of
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8.5 Normal Use Testing—These tests are intended to simu- clothes sufficient to bring the total dry weight to a minimum 4
late normal use conditions so as to ensure that hazards are not lb (1.8 kg), are washed in an automatic washing machine using
generated through normal wear and deterioration. The object of the warm water setting and a 12-min wash cycle at the normal
these tests shall be to simulate the normal play mode of the toy, setting. The toys and dummy load shall then be tumble dried in
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and the tests are therefore unrelated to the reasonably foresee- an automatic clothes dryer using the warm setting, or air dried,
able abuse tests of 8.6 – 8.13. The tests are intended to uncover until the load is dried. The toy shall be deemed dry when the
hazards rather than to demonstrate the reliability of the toy. The final weight does not exceed the original dry weight by more
fact that a mechanism or material of a toy fails during testing than 10 %.
SO
is relevant only if the failure creates a potential hazard. Toys 8.6 Abuse Testing—The tests described in 8.7 – 8.13 are to
shall be subject to appropriate tests to simulate the expected simulate the exposure of a toy to mechanical damage through
mode of use of the particular toy. For example, levers, wheels, dropping, throwing, and other actions likely to be performed by
catches, triggers, strings, wires, chains, and so on, that are a child, which are characterized as reasonably foreseeable
intended to be actuated by a child shall be operated repeatedly. abuse. After testing, the toy shall be examined for mechanical
Spring or power-operated devices shall be tested similarly. The
tests shall be conducted in an expected use environment. For
example, toys intended for use in the bathtub shall be tested in
soapy water, and toys intended for use in the sandbox shall be
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hazards, such as hazardous sharp edges and points, and
ingestion hazards, such as small liberated components, chips,
or fragments. The severity of the abuse tests described in 8.7,
8.8, 8.9, 8.10, and 8.12 shall be determined according to the
exposed to sand during testing. It is recognized that no specific age group for which the toy is intended. If the toy is intended
requirements are defined here; it would not be possible in view for an age group that spans more than one age group according
of the wide range of toys covered by this specification. to Table 5, the toy shall be subjected to the most severe test.
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However, the manufacturer or distributor must do enough Unless otherwise specified, none of the abuse testing described
testing to satisfy himself that normal use during the estimated in 8.7 – 8.12 applies to toys intended for children over 96
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lifetime of the toy is being simulated. The toy shall be months of age. Toys reasonably intended to be assembled by an
inspected after such tests, and hazards such as points, sharp adult, and not intended to be taken apart by a child, shall be
edges, and release of small parts shall be evaluated in accor- tested only in the assembled state if the shelf package and
dance with the relevant requirements listed in Section 4. assembly instructions indicate prominently that the article is to
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TABLE 5 Test Parameters for Use and Abuse Tests

Age Category Numerical Value
Test of Intended Stated by the Recommended for
User, months Voluntary Standard Toy Manufacturers
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Drop test 0 to 18 10 × 4.5 ft ± 0.5 in. (137 cm) 4 ft, 6.5 in. (1.38 m)
over 18 to 36 4 × 3.0 ft ± 0.5 in. (91 cm) 3 ft, 0.5 in. (0.93 m)
over 36 to 96 4 × 3.0 ft ± 0.5 in. (91 cm) 3 ft, 0.5 in. (0.93 m)
Torque test 0 to 18 2 ± 0.2 in.·lbf (0.23 N·m) 2.2 in.·lbf (0.25 N·m)
over 18 to 36 3 ± 0.2 in.·lbf (0.34 N·m) 3.2 in.·lbf (0.36 N·m)
DO
over 36 to 96 4 ± 0.2 in.·lbf (0.45 N·m) 4.2 in.·lbf (0.47 N·m)

Tension test 0 to 18 10 ± 0.5 lbf (44.5 N) 10.5 lbf (46.7 N)
over 18 to 36 15 ± 0.5 lbf (66.8 N) 15.5 lbf (69.0 N)
over 36 to 96 15 ± 0.5 lbf (66.8 N) 15.5 lbf (69.0 N)
Compression test 0 to 18 20 ± 0.5 lbf (89.0 N) 20.5 lbf (91.2 N)
over 18 to 36 25 ± 0.5 lbf (111.3 N) 25.5 lbf (113.5 N)
over 36 to 96 30 ± 0.5 lbf (133.5 N) 30.5 lbf (135.7 N)
Flexure test 0 to 18 10 ± 0.5 lbf (44.5 N) 10.5 lbf (46.7 N)
over 18 to 36 15 ± 0.5 lbf (66.8 N) 15.5 lbf (69.0 N)
over 36 to 96 15 ± 0.5 lbf (66.8 N) 15.5 lbf (69.0 N)
35
F963 − 11
be assembled by an adult. Individual parts of toys that are
intended to be assembled by children shall be tested as well as
the fully assembled toy; however, the assembled toy shall be
made of components that have not been subjected to the abuse
testing.
8.7 Impact Tests—These tests are intended to simulate
situations in which possible damage can occur to a toy by
reason of its falling from a crib, table, or counter top, or other
impact situations that may occur as a result of reasonably
foreseeable abuse. After undergoing the appropriate test, the
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toy shall be examined for possible hazards, such as points,
edges, or ingestible objects, in accordance with the relevant
requirement of Section 4.
8.7.1 Drop Test—Except for toys covered in 8.7.2, toys
falling below the weight limit given below shall be dropped
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Dimensions
onto a specified impact area. The number of times the toy will “A” shall be not less than 3 ft (914 mm)
“B” shall be not less than 7 in. (180 mm)
be dropped, and the height from which it is dropped, is to be “C” shall be not more than 9 in. (230 mm)
determined from Table 5. The toy shall be dropped in random
orientation. The test sample shall be allowed to come to rest FIG. 26 Illustration of Step Construction
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after each drop and shall be examined and evaluated before
continuing. The impact medium shall consist of a 1⁄8-in.
(3-mm) nominal thickness of Type IV vinyl composition tile,
composition 1-asbestos free, as specified in Federal Specifica- weighing 0.56 oz. (15.8 g) (with a tolerance of +0.03 (0.8 g, −0
tion SS-T-312B over at least a 2.5-in. (64-mm) thickness of oz) from a height of 50 in. (1.3 m) upon the horizontal upper
concrete. The impact area shall be at least 3 ft2 (0.3 m2). The
recommended batteries shall be in place during the drop test for
battery-operated toys. If no specific type of battery is
recommended, the heaviest battery that is generally available
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surface of the toy in the area that would cover the eyes in
normal use. In the case of toys with cutout eye holes, impact
the area that would be directly adjacent to the eyes in normal
use. The ball may be guided, but not restricted, in its fall by
shall be used. being dropped through a perforated tube extending to within
Age Group Weight Criteria, lb (kg)
approximately 4 in. (100 mm) of the toy.
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18 months or less less than 3 ± 0.01 (1.4) 8.8 Torque Tests for Removal of Components—Any toy with
over 18 months, not over 36 months less than 4 ± 0.01 (1.8)
over 36 months, not over 96 months less than 10 ± 0.01 (4.5) a projection, part, or assembly that a child can grasp with at
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least the thumb and forefinger or the teeth shall be subject to

8.7.2 Tipover Test for Large, Bulky Toys—Large, bulky toys
this test. The amount of torque shall be determined from Table
shall not be subjected to the drop test of 8.7.1, but they shall be
5, according to the age group for which the toy is intended. The
tipped over according to the following procedure:
loading device used in the test shall be a torque gauge, torque
8.7.2.1 Tipover Test for Large, Bulky Toys—Large, bulky wrench, or other appropriate device having an accuracy of
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toys shall be tested for impact by tipping over three times, one 60.2 in.·lbf (60.02 N·m). A clamp capable of holding the test
of which is in the worst attitude by pushing the sample slowly component firmly and transmitting a torsional force shall be
past its center of balance onto the impact medium described in used. The clamp is fastened to the test object or component
8.7.1. with the toy fastened rigidly in any reasonable test position.
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8.7.3 Tumble Test for Wheeled Toys—Wheeled toys weigh- The torque shall be applied evenly within a period of 5 s in a
ing more than 3 lb (1.4 kg) but not more than 10 lb (4.5 kg) clockwise direction until either (1) a rotation of 180° from the
shall be tumbled down a flight of six steps with risers not less original position has been attained, or (2) the required torque is
than 7 in. (180 mm) high (see Fig. 26). The treads may be exceeded. The maximum rotation or required torque shall be
wood, cement, or metal. The toy, including accessories, where maintained for an additional 10 s. The torque shall then be
DO
applicable, shall be caused to fall down the steps two times in removed and the test component permitted to return to a
each of four attitudes: tumbling forwardly end-over-end and relaxed condition. This procedure shall then be repeated in a
tumbling rearwardly end-over-end from each side. The toy counterclockwise direction. Projections, parts, or assemblies
shall be pushed slowly over the edge of the top step in the that are mounted rigidly on an accessible rod or shaft designed
appropriate attitude and released as soon as it begins to fall of to rotate along with the projections, parts, or assemblies shall
its own weight. The test shall be considered complete for an be tested with the rod or shaft clamped to prevent rotation. If
attitude even if the toy does not reach the bottom of the flight a component that is attached by a screw thread that has been
of steps. assembled by the manufacturer, or that has been assembled to
8.7.4 Impact Test for Toys that Cover the Face—The toy the manufacturer’s instructions, becomes loosened during ap-
shall be held firmly in a suitable clamp with that portion that plication of the required torque, continue to apply the torque
covers or surrounds the eyes (in the case of cutout eye holes) until either (1) the required torque is exceeded, or (2) the part
in a horizontal plane. Drop a 5⁄8-in. (16-mm) diameter steel ball disassembles. The test should be terminated if it becomes
36
F963 − 11
obvious that the part under test will continue to rotate at less assembled stuffed toy in a manner such that the outside
than the required torque limit and will not disassemble. diameter of the 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) washers at a point nearest the
8.8.1 If the part disassembles, evaluate it for compliance seam shall be close to, but no closer than, 1⁄2 in. (13 mm) from
with the appropriate requirements. If the disassembly exposes the edge of the seam stitching thread. This seam test shall not
an accessible component that can be grasped as noted above, be performed if the material adjacent to the seam cannot be
repeat the torque test on that component. grasped between the thumb and forefinger of the test personnel
8.9 Tension Test for Removal of Components—Any projec- sufficient for full clamping by the 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) diameter
tion of a toy that a child can grasp with at least the thumb and washer jaws. If such is the case, a torque and tension test shall
forefinger or the teeth shall be subjected to this test. The be performed on an arm, leg, or other appendage of the toy
tension test shall be performed on the same components of the instead of the seam test.
8.9.1.2 In performing a seam test, the force appropriate for
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toy subjected to the torque test described in 8.8. The amount of
force used shall be determined from Table 5, according to the the age category into which the toy falls (see Table 5) shall be
age group for which the toy is intended. A clamp capable of applied evenly within 5 s and maintained for an additional 10
applying a tension load to the test component shall be applied s.
in a manner that will not affect the structural integrity of the 8.10 Compression Test—Any area on the surface of a toy
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attachment between the component and the toy. The loading that is accessible to a child and inaccessible to flat surface
device shall be a self-indicating gauge or other appropriate contact during the impact test shall be subject to this test. The
means having an accuracy of 60.5 lb (62 N). With the test compression force shall be determined from Table 5 according
sample fastened in a convenient position, an appropriate clamp to the age group for which the toy is intended.
SO
shall be attached to the test object or component. The required 8.10.1 The loading device shall be a rigid metal disk 1.125
tensile force shall be applied evenly, within a period of 5 s, 6 0.015 in. (0.380 mm) in diameter and 0.375 in. (9.52 mm)
parallel to the major axis of the test component, and maintained in thickness. The perimeter of the disk shall be rounded to a
for an additional 10 s. The tension clamp shall then be radius of 1⁄32 in. (0.8 mm) to eliminate irregular edge. The disk
removed, and a second clamp suitable for applying a tension shall be attached to an appropriate compression scale having an
load perpendicularly to the major axis of the test component
shall be attached to the test object component. The required
tensile force shall be applied evenly, within a period of 5 s,
perpendicularly to the major axis of the test component and
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accuracy of 60.5 lb (2 N). The disk shall be positioned so that
the flat contact surface is parallel to the surface under test. The
required force shall be applied evenly within 5 s through the
disk. This load shall be maintained for an additional 10 s. The
maintained for an additional 10 s. toy is to rest on a flat, hard surface in any convenient position
8.9.1 Tension Test for Seams in Stuffed Toys and Beanbag- during the test.
Type Toys—A stuffed toy or beanbag constructed of pliable
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8.11 Tests for Tire Removal and Snap-in Wheel and Axle
material having seams (including, but not limited to, seams that Assembly Removal—These tests relate to the requirements of
are stitched, glued, heat sealed, or ultrasonic welded) shall
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4.17.
have the seams subjected to a separate tension test in any 8.11.1 Removal of Tires—The toy shall be clamped so that
direction using the forces specified in 8.9 and determined from the wheel axle is vertical. A wire hook shaped as shown in Fig.
Table 5 according to the age group for which the toy is 28 shall be positioned on the lower tire and attached to a dead
intended. weight of 10 6 0.5 lb (4.5 kg) if the tire is on a toy intended
ME
8.9.1.1 The clamps used to grip the material on either side for children aged 18 months or less, or to a dead weight of 15
of the seam to be tested shall have jaws to which are attached 6 0.5 lb (6.8 kg) if the tire is on a toy intended for children
3⁄4-in. (19-mm) diameter washers (see Fig. 27). The clamps
aged over 18 months but not over 36 months. The load shall be
shall be attached to the cover material of a completely applied gradually over a period of 5 s and maintained for 10 s.
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8.11.2 Toys Assembled With Snap-in Axles—A15 6 0.5-lb

(6.8-kg) dead weight shall be applied perpendicularly to the
axle and in the least favorable direction, adjacent to a bearing
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FIG. 27 Seam Clamp FIG. 28 Hook for Tire Removal
37
F963 − 11
(but between the two bearings), for 10 s, using a hook and
string for attachment to the toy. The toy shall be held
horizontally in a test-convenient fixture, and the load shall be
applied gradually over a 5-s period and then shall be main-
tained for 10 s. The toy shall be held horizontally if the axle
cannot be hooked as described above, and a 10 6 0.5-lb
(4.5-kg) dead weight shall be attached to one wheel by means
of a hook or clamp that acts perpendicular to the axle in the
least favorable direction. The load shall be applied gradually
over a 5-s period and then be maintained for 10 s.
8.11.3 Compression Test for Snap-in Wheel and Axle
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Assemblies—This test is for determining compliance with 4.17
if the axle and wheel are removed by the procedure described FIG. 30 Flexure Tester
in 8.11.2. The wheel and axle assembly shall be positioned
with the axle vertical over a hole in a rigid plate, as shown in
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Fig. 29. The hole shall be large enough in diameter to permit
in less than 3 s shall be connected to the mouthpiece of the toy.
the axle to pass through. A load of 20 6 0.5 lb (89 N) is applied
A relief valve shall be so arranged that the pump will not
to the upper wheel, using a suitable circular adaptor to prevent
generate a positive or negative pressure of more than 2 psig.
interference with the axle. The load shall be applied gradually
The toy shall be subjected to 10 alternating blowing-and-
over a 5-s period and then shall be maintained for 10 s. When
SO
sucking cycles of at least 18 in.3 (295 cm3) of air, including that
applying the load, the upper wheel shall be guided, if
volume that may be discharged through the relief valve. Any
necessary, in order to maintain the axle in a vertical position,
objects released as a result of this test shall be inspected for
but it shall not be restrained from moving downward. The axle
conformance with 4.6. The above procedure shall also be
shall not form a hazardous point or projection in those cases in
applied to the outlet if the air outlet of the toy is accessible as
which it is forced through either wheel.
8.12 Flexure Test—This test is for determining compliance
with 4.10, for wires or rods used as flexible skeletons. The toy
shall be secured in a vise equipped with vise shields that are
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described in 4.6.2.
8.14 Projectiles:
8.14.1 Kinetic Energy Determination—The kinetic energy
of a projectile as defined in 3.1.51 shall be determined from the
fabricated from 13-gauge thick cold-rolled steel or other
following equation:
similar material and that have a 0.375-in. (9.5-mm) inside
radius as shown in Fig. 30. The component shall then be bent kinetic energy 5 1/2 mv2 (1)
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through a 60° arc by a force applied perpendicularly to the where:
major axis of the component at a point 2 6 0.05 in. (50 mm)
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m = mass of projectile, kg, and

from the intersection of the component with the main body of
v = velocity of the projectile, m/s.
the toy or applied at the end of the component if the component
is less than 2 in. (50 mm) long. The force shall be determined 8.14.2 The mass of a projectile, m, shall be determined by
from Table 5. The component shall then be bent in the reverse weighing a sample on a laboratory balance. The velocity of a
ME
direction through a 120° arc. This process shall be repeated for projectile, v, shall be determined by firing a sample from the
30 cycles at a rate of 1 cycle/2 s, with a 60-s rest period discharge mechanism of the toy across ballistic screens placed
occurring after each 10 cycles. Two 120° arc bends shall a known distance apart (s, metres) and recording the time (t,
constitute one cycle. seconds) to travel that distance. The velocity of the projectile
shall be calculated from the expression v = s/t m/s.
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8.13 Test for Mouth-Actuated Toys—A piston pump capable

8.14.3 When performing the test to measure the velocity of
of discharging and taking in more than 18 in.3 (295 cm3) of air
a projectile, the second screen shall be placed a distance no
more than 1 ft (300 mm) plus one projectile length from the
point at which the entire projectile enters free flight (see Fig.
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31). Due to the flight characteristics of certain projectiles and
NOTE 1—First ballistic screen to be located between end of launcher

and second screen.
FIG. 29 Compression Test for Wheel Assemblies FIG. 31 Diagram of Layout to Determine Projectile Velocity
38
F963 − 11
other factors that may influence the accuracy of the measure- toy or toy seat from the least favorable position that it is
ment of projectile velocity, the value of v in the equation for reasonable to anticipate that the child will choose to sit (note -
kinetic energy shall be the average of five measurements. separate tests for each side).
8.14.4 Impact Test for Projectiles—Projectiles, as defined in
NOTE 16—Separate tests for each side.
3.1.59, shall be propelled by their discharge mechanism three
times into a concrete block wall (or equivalent surface) located 8.15.9 The center of gravity of the load for the fore and aft
at a distance 1 ft (300 mm) plus the length of the projectile stability test shall be secured both 1.7 in. (43 mm) rearward of
from the front end of the launcher. The discharge mechanism the front-most portion of the designated seating area and 1.7 in.
shall be aimed perpendicular to the wall. (43 mm) forward of the rear-most portion of the designated
seating area.
8.15 Test for Stability of Ride-On Toys or Toy Seats—These
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tests relate to the requirements of 4.15. NOTE 17—Two separate tests.
8.15.1 Place the ride-on toy or toy seat across the slope of a 8.15.10 If there is no designated seating area or if there is no
smooth surface inclined 10° to the horizontal plane. (Some designated fore and aft orientation, the load shall be placed 1.7
tests require a 15° slope; refer to 4.15.2.2 and 4.15.3.) in. (43 mm) inward towards the geometric center of the ride-on
8.15.2 Turn the steering mechanism, if any, to a position at toy or toy seat from the least favorable position that it is
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which the ride-on toy or toy seat is most likely to tip. reasonable to anticipate that the child will choose to sit.
8.15.3 Chock any wheels to restrict rolling, but allow
casters to assume their natural position before chocks are NOTE 18—Two separate tests.
applied. 8.16 Pompoms are subjected to the torque test as described
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8.15.4 Apply to the seat a static load equal to the weight in 8.8 and 8.8.1 and the tension test as described herein. The
indicated in Table 6 at the highest age of the age range for clamps used to grip the material to be tested shall have jaws to
which the ride-on toy or toy seat is intended, but not exceeding which 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) diameter washers are attached (see Fig.
60 months. When the highest age of the intended age range 27). One clamp shall be attached to the pompom and a second
falls between two ages listed in Table 6, the higher of the two clamp used to grip the base material. A force of 15 lbf (67 N)
shall be chosen.
8.15.5 The load shall be applied so that the major axis is
perpendicular to the true horizontal while the ride-on toy or toy
seat is on the incline specified.
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shall be applied evenly within 5 s and maintained for an
additional 10 s.
8.17 Stalled Motor Test for Battery-Operated Toys:
8.17.1 The test shall be conducted using a new toy. Each
8.15.6 The load shall be designed so that the height of its
motor shall be tested separately using fresh alkaline batteries.
center of gravity is 8.7 6 0.5 in. (220 6 13 mm).
If another battery chemistry is specifically recommended for
8.15.7 The center of gravity of the load for the sideways
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use in the toy by the manufacturer, repeat the test using the
stability test shall be secured to the geometric center of the
batteries specified by the manufacturer. If the toy will not
designated seating area.
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operate using alkaline batteries, test with the type of battery

NOTE 15—Separate tests for each side. recommended by the manufacturer at the specified voltage.
8.15.8 If there is no designated seating area or if there is no The test is to be carried out in a draft-free location at an
designated sideways orientation, the load shall be placed 1.7 in. ambient temperature of 20 6 5°C.
(43 mm) inward towards the geometric center of the ride-on 8.17.2 Operate the toy with moving parts that are mechani-
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cally linked to a motor locked in a fixed position. Only lock

moving parts which can be stalled external to the toy. Do not
TABLE 6 Weight of 95th Percentile Children (Values Given for disable any mechanical or electrical protective device such as
Boys or Girls, Whichever is Higher) clutches or fuses. Monitor the temperatures with the toy fully
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Age, Weight, assembled. If normal use allows the motor to run unattended or
years lb (kg)
if the toy has a non-recessed switch allowing it to be kept in the
1 28 (12.6)
2 29 (13.2) “on” position, operate the toy continuously and record the
3 42 (18.9) maximum temperatures. The test may be discontinued 60 min
4 43 (19.7) after the peak temperature of each component being tested is
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5 50 (22.6)
6 59 (26.6) recorded. If the toy shuts off automatically or must be kept
7 69 (31.2) “on” by hand or foot, monitor temperatures for 30 s, resetting
8 81 (37.0) the toy as many times as necessary to complete the 30 s of
9 89 (40.4)
10 105 (47.9) operation. If the toy shuts off automatically after an operating
11 121 (55.0) time of greater than 30 s, continue the test until the toy shuts
12 120 (54.7) off. At the conclusion of the test, the stalled motor condition
13 140 (63.6)
14 153 (69.6) shall not cause temperatures to exceed the limits of 4.25.7, or
cause battery leakage, an explosion, or a fire.
39
F963 − 11
8.18 Tests for Battery-Powered Ride-on Toys: 8.18.4.2 Forward/Reverse—If the toy has a reverse direc-
8.18.1 Components tested in accordance with the following tion feature, cycle the toy in the forward and reverse directions
sections are to be installed and operated in the toy, as they in 1-s cycles for 30 repetitions (0.5 s forward followed by 0.5
would be during normal use unless otherwise specified. Testing s reverse) in the mode that draws the greatest current.
is to be conducted using fully charged batteries.16 8.18.5 Switch Endurance and Overload Tests—Precondition
8.18.2 Maximum Temperature Test: switches at 95 % relative humidity between 20°C and 32°C for
8.18.2.1 Mechanically precondition all electrical pressure 48 h. Conduct the Switch Endurance and Overload Tests at
connections used for charging or discharging the battery(ies). If 40°C. A switch is to be operated by means of its actuating
a main harness connector is provided, the main harness member either manually or by mechanical means making and
connection must be connected and disconnected 600 times breaking the test current. If a fuse or protective device operates
before the Maximum Temperature Test is performed. If a user (opens or trips) the device must be replaced or reset as many
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replaceable fuse is provided, remove and insert the fuse 25 times as necessary to complete the required number of cycles.
times before the Maximum Temperature test is performed. The test may be concluded at less than the prescribed number
8.18.2.2 Power the test sample using a fully charged battery of cycles if the switch fails safe (switch stuck in the “off”
as specified by the manufacturer. Operate the vehicle in the position and no short-circuit condition results). Test 3 samples.
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mode that results in the maximum continuous current draw. All samples must pass.
Determine the maximum continuous current draw by testing 8.18.5.1 Switch Endurance Test—If a switch is relied upon
the vehicle on any intended surface as specified by the for starting and stopping of the vehicle, conduct the endurance
manufacturer, and by adjusting the weight, up to the manufac- test for 100 000 cycles. Cycle (minimum 1 s on time and at
turer specified maximum. Several trials on different surfaces least 6 cycles per minute) a switch in the toy using the
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and with different weights may be necessary to determine the maximum continuous current load as determined in the Maxi-
maximum continuous current draw. mum Temperature Test or in an equivalent simulated motor
8.18.2.3 Physically load the vehicle in any way necessary to load circuit including the inrush and inductive characteristics.
obtain the maximum continuous current draw. Operate the All other switches are to be subjected to 6000 cycles of
vehicle continuously until the battery is exhausted or until
thermal equilibrium is reached. If thermal equilibrium is not
reached, replace the battery with a fully charged battery and
continue the test.
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endurance testing. Cycle (minimum 1 s on time and at least 6
cycles per minute) a switch in the toy using the maximum
continuous current load as determined in the Maximum Tem-
perature Test or in an equivalent simulated motor load circuit
8.18.3 Stalled Motor Test for Battery-Powered Ride-on including the inrush and inductive characteristics.
Toys—Mechanically lock any accessible motor driven parts. 8.18.5.2 Switch Overload Test—The overload test is to be
For toys having more than one motor, each motor shall be conducted on a switch that is relied upon for starting and
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tested individually. For toys having more than one operating stopping of the vehicle. Stall the motor(s) of the toy. Operate
mode, a different toy shall be tested in each mode. The toy shall the switch for 50 cycles of operation at a rate of 6 cycles per
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be entirely draped with a double layer of cheesecloth during the minute with 1 s on and 9 s off.
test. For motors or other electrical components that are 8.18.6 Battery Overcharge Test—Each battery shall be
accessible, the cheesecloth shall also be draped over the charged with its intended charger continuously for 336 h. The
component. test shall not result in the release of electrolyte, or cause
8.18.3.1 Operate the toy, under the stalled condition, until a
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explosion or fire.
circuit protection device interrupts the current or until the 8.18.6.1 If the battery can be charged in the vehicle, place
battery is depleted. the battery in the vehicle and connect it to the charging circuit.
8.18.3.2 If the circuit protection device interrupts the Drape the charger, cable, and battery with a double layer of
circuit, immediately reset the circuit protection device or cheesecloth. The test shall not result in ignition of the cheese-
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replace it in the case of a fuse and repeat the test three more cloth or in the release of electrolyte.
times. If the circuit protection device automatically resets, 8.18.7 Short-Circuit Protection Test—Entirely drape the toy
continue the stalled motor test until the battery is exhausted. with a double layer of cheesecloth. Short-circuit parts of
8.18.3.3 The test shall not result in ignition of the cheese- opposite polarity. Any possible short-circuit condition shall not
cloth.
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result in ignition of the cheesecloth.

8.18.4 Nuisance Tripping Test—Conduct the tests on a level 8.18.8 Strain Relief Test—The electrical connections of the
surface as specified in 8.18.1, loading the vehicle with the cord or harness are to be disconnected. Apply a 20 lbf (90 N)
maximum weight specified by the manufacturer. to the cord so that the strain relief will be stressed from any
8.18.4.1 Start/Stop Condition—Start and stop the toy in 1-s angle permitted by the construction of the toy. Maintain the
cycles for 30 repetitions (0.5 s start followed by 0.5 s stop) in specified force for 1 min. There shall be no movement of the
the mode that draws the greatest current. cord to indicate stress on the connections.
8.19 Tests for Toys Which Produce Noise:
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Testing is to be conducted while the vehicle is operated on a hard level surface 8.19.1 Installation and Mounting Conditions:
covered with 3M #610 General Purpose Safety Walk tape or equivalent surface with
8.19.1.1 General—Carry out the measurements on a new
a coefficient of friction between 1.27 and 1.32 when measured in accordance with
MIL-D-17951. Cheesecloth referenced in the following tests is #60 cotton gauze toy not already subjected to testing. Test battery toys using new
with a thread count of 32 by 28 threads per inch. primary batteries or fully charged secondary batteries. External
40
F963 − 11
power supplies should not be used as they will, in many cases,
affect the performance of the toy.
8.19.1.2 Test Environment—Any environment that meets
the qualification requirements of ISO 3746, Annex A.
NOTE 19—In practice, this means that most normally furnished rooms
with a volume exceeding 30 m3 will qualify at measurement distances of
50 cm provided that the largest dimension of the toy does not exceed 50
cm.
8.19.1.3 Mounting—Test rigs used for the mounting of toys
and/or the operator of the toy shall not affect the sound
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emission of the toy under test nor cause sound reflections
which will increase the sound pressure levels at the measuring
points.
(1) Mount close to the ear toys and hand-held toys in a
proper test rig at least 100 cm above the reflecting plane or
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have them operated by an adult operator with the arm out-
stretched.
(2) Place stationary table top, floor, and crib toys on a
standard test table as described in ISO 11202. A table with a
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wooden top with a thickness of 4 cm or larger and leg
construction providing a stable test surface is considered
sufficient. The table top should be large enough such that, with
the toy resting on and fully over the table top, the side of the
measurement box from which the measurement is being made
is also above the table top (see 8.19.2.3(5)).
(3) Mount self propelled table top and floor toys on the
standard test table described above in a test rig so that they can
be operated with full power, but preventing them from moving
Key:
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NOTE 1—
1—Microphone
2—End of measurement
w—width of toy
FIG. 32 Microphone Positions for Measurements of Pull and Push
around. Toys and for Hand-Actuated Spring-Propelled Toys (“Pass-by”
(4) Place pull and push toys on the reflecting plane (for Test)
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example, concrete, tile, or other hard surface) and fix them in
a test rig which enables them to be moved with varying speed tal. Endeavour to achieve the highest possible sound level.
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along a direct line which passes the measuring microphones Stand side-face with the microphone and keep the rattle at the
(“passing by” test). Make sure that the friction of the reflecting same height as the microphone at a distance of 50 cm.
plane prevents wheels from skidding. (3) Operate a pull and push toy at a speed that yields the
(5) Place hand-actuated wind-up toys, with the wind-up maximum sound pressure level. Do not exceed 2 m/s.
spring fully loaded, on the reflecting plane (for example, (4) Operate a cap-firing toy using percussion caps recom-
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concrete, tile, or other hard surface) so that the front of the toy mended by the manufacturer and which are available on the
is 40 6 1 cm along the x-axis from the microphones of the market.
“passing by” test (see Fig. 32). 8.19.2 Measurement Procedure:
(6) Mount other types of toys in the most appropriate way 8.19.2.1 Basic International Standards to be Used—The
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using the principles described in previous paragraphs. minimum requirement is to determine sound pressure levels at
8.19.1.4 Operating Conditions—Operate the toy under test the specified positions around the toy in accordance with
in that mode of its intended or foreseeable use that produces the ISO 11202 or ISO 11204.
highest sound pressure level to the microphone position, where 8.19.2.2 Instrumentation—The instrumentation system, in-
the maximum noise level is observed. In particular: cluding the microphone and cable, shall meet the requirements
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(1) Operate a hand-actuated toy manually, excluding pull of a class 1 or class 2 instrument specified in IEC 61672-1 and
and push toys, by applying the force at the point and direction IEC 61672-2. When measuring high peak sound pressure
of its intended or foreseeable use giving the maximum sound levels, for example, from toys using percussion caps, the
pressure level. For a toy intended to be shaken, shake at a rate microphone and the entire instrumentation system shall have
of three times per second. One cycle shall consist of an initial the capability of handling linear peak levels exceeding the
15 cm stroke followed by a return to the starting point. C-weighted peak levels by at least 10 dB.
(2) Operate a rattle by grasping it where it is meant to be 8.19.2.3 Microphone Positions—General— Several micro-
held or, if in doubt, where the longest lever between the hand phone positions shall be used. In practice, this often means that
and the sound emitting part of the rattle can be obtained. Make one microphone is moved from position to position. Whenever
sure that the radiated sound is not affected by the grip of the it is practicable, it is always an alternative to rotate the test
hand. Strike downwards ten times with hard lashes in a slow object instead. Attention must be paid to maintaining the
tempo. Use the wrist and keep the forearm essentially horizon- correct measuring distance.
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F963 − 11
(1) Close-to-the-Ear Toys—To measure continuous sounds,
face the earpiece of the toy at the microphone with the
microphone 50 6 0.5 cm from the earpiece. To measure
continuous sounds on toys without earpieces, locate the micro-
phone 50 6 0.5 cm from the surface of the toy where the main
sound source exists such that the sound pressure level at the
microphone is maximized. To measure impulsive sounds,
locate the microphone 50 6 0.5 cm from the surface of the toy
where the main sound source exists such that the sound
pressure level at the microphone is maximized.
(2) Cap-Firing Toys—Use six microphone positions around
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the toy. Place the main sound emitting part of the toy at the
origin of the measuring coordinate system in its normal NOTE 1—
operating orientation in such a way that the main axes of the Key:
toy coincide with the axes of the measuring coordinate system 1—Measurement box
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(see Fig. 33). If the length of the toy exceeds 50 cm, rotate the 2—Reference box
toy in the xy-plane 45° around the z-axis without changing the FIG. 34 Microphone Positions for All Other Hand-Held Toys
microphone positions. Select two microphone positions along
each axis at a distance of 50 6 1 cm to both directions from the
origin as shown in Fig. 33.
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(3) Rattles—Mount the microphone 1.2 m above the floor
and at a distance of 0.5 m from the sound source.
(4) Other Hand-Held Toys—Select six microphone posi-
tions on a box-shaped measurement surface at the measuring
distance of 50 cm from the reference box of the toy, as defined
in ISO 3746, as specified in Fig. 34. The positions are at the
centers of the sides of the measurement surface at the distance
50 cm from the reference box.
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(5) Stationary and Self-Propelled Table-Top, Floor, and
Crib Toys—Select five, or if the length or width of the toy is NOTE 1—
larger than 100 cm, nine microphone positions on a box-shaped Key:
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measurement surface at the measuring distance of 50 cm from 1—Measurement box
the reference box of the toy as specified in Fig. 35. The sides 2—Reference box
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FIG. 35 Microphone Positions for Measurement of Stationary and

of the measurement box with height H are always 50 cm from Self-Propelled Table-Top, Floor, and Crib Toys
the sides of the reference box, except for the bottom of the
boxes, which lie in the same plane. All microphone positions
are on the measurement box. (6) Pull and Push Toys and Hand-Activated Spring-
Propelled Toys— For toys with a width (w) of 25 cm or less,
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use two microphones at distances (d) 50 cm from the x-axis of

the measuring coordinate system as shown in Fig. 32. For toys
with a width (w) of more than 25 cm, use two microphone at
distances (d) 40 cm plus half the width of the toy from the
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x-axis (40 + w/2) as shown in Fig. 32. Place the toy on a test
rig or on the reflecting plane in its normal operating orientation
in such a way that movement of the toy is possible along the
x-axis passing the microphone positions.
8.19.2.4 Measurements:
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(1) General—Normal operating mode(s) shall be reached

before the tests are performed.
(2) Measurements of Continuous Sounds—If the toy under
test has a clearly defined operating cycle, measure the equiva-
lent sound pressure level in each microphone position during at
least one whole cycle. Quiet periods longer than 15 s shall be
excluded from the measurement period. Perform a total of
three measurements. If the toy under test does not have a
NOTE 1—
clearly defined operating cycle, measure the equivalent sound
Key:
1—Microphone pressure level in each microphone position for at least 15 s
FIG. 33 Microphone Positions for Measurement of Sound Pres- during the operational mode where the noise level is highest.
sure Levels of Cap Firing Toys Perform a total of three measurements.
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F963 − 11
(3) Measurements of Impulsive Sounds—Measure the whether the toy continues to conform to the relevant require-
C-weighted peak sound pressure level, LCpeak, of impulsive ments of this specification.
sounds in each microphone position. Perform a total of three
8.21 Plastic Film Thickness—Use a measuring device (dial-
measurements. For pass-by tests, measure the C-weighted peak
type thickness gauge or equivalent) capable of measuring
sound pressure level. Measure twice on each side.
thickness to an accuracy of 4 µm. Measurements shall be taken
(4) Measurement for Rattles— Measure the C-weighted
at 10 equidistant points across the diagonal of any 3.94 by
peak sound pressure level, LCpeak, for ten cycles. Perform a
3.94-in. (100 by 100-mm) area. For plastic bags, prepare by
total of three measurements.
cutting the sides, without stretching, into two single sheets.
(5) Measurement Results—Sound measurement results
shall be given as: (a) A-weighted equivalent sound pressure 8.22 Test for Loops and Cords:
level at the specified position, LAeq, in decibels; (b) C-weighted 8.22.1 Anchor or secure the toy. Place the head probe (Fig.
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peak sound pressure level at the specified position, LCpeak, in 10) in the loop/opening formed by the cord/s, tapered end first,
decibels. with the plane of its base parallel to the plane of the opening.
(6) The highest value of the applicable measurements (LAeq Rotate the probe to any orientation about its own axis while
and LCpeak) at any of the microphone positions is the measure- keeping its base parallel to the plane of the opening; apply 10
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ment result. lbf (45 N) while attempting to push the probe through the
8.20 Dynamic Strength Test for Wheeled Ride-on Toys— opening.
Load the toy for 5 min in the most onerous position with the 8.22.2 Elastic materials or loops that are smaller than the
appropriate mass in accordance with Table 6 on its standing or tapered diameter of the head probe shall be stretched before
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sitting surface. Secure the load to the toy in a position applying the head probe test fixture using the hook test fixture
corresponding to the normal use of the toy. Drive the toy three illustrated in Fig. 36. To begin the evaluation, the elastic
times at a speed of 6.6 ft/s (2 m/s) 6 0.7 ft/s (0.2 m/s) into a material is first looped around the left bottom hook, then
nonresilient step with a height of 2 in. (50 mm). If the toy is hooking the elastic material with the hook attachment of the
intended to bear the mass of more than one child at a time, test force gauge, pull the elastic material to the right bottom hook
each sitting or standing area simultaneously. Determine
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without exceeding a force of 5.0 lbf (22.2 N). The elastic
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FIG. 36 Hook Test Fixture for Cords and Loops
43
F963 − 11
material is then pulled to the left upper hook without exceeding tether toy by whatever holding means is supplied, typically a
a force of 5.0 lbf (22.2 N). Pull the elastic material to the right small loop. Rotate the toy in a horizontal or near-horizontal
side so that the hook of the force gauge is adjacent to the left plane using any convenient means to achieve a constant
upper hook and parallel to the right bottom hook without rotational speed of 80 r/min or the maximum achievable speed
exceeding a force of 5.0 lbf (22.2 N). The hook of the force up to 80 r/min.
gauge should remain in this position during testing. If the
elastic material cannot be stretched and held in this position or NOTE 20—The plane of rotation may not be horizontal given the
if the force needed to stretch the elastic material exceeds 5.0 lbf physical characteristics of the toy, for example the size and mass of the
object at the end of the tether.
(22.2 N), the elastic material complies with this requirement.
NOTE 21—Where a tether has no distinct holding means, such as a
The testing sequence is illustrated in Fig. 36 (a) through (e). If
finger loop, the unloaded length of the tether that is held should be the
the body of the toy forms part of the loop, position the body of
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minimal length required to prevent release of the tether during rotation.
the toy so that it is on the open, right-hand side of the hook test
fixture. Apply the head probe in accordance with 8.22.1. 8.23.1.1 A variable speed drill is one method of achieving a
8.22.3 For cords, straps, and elastics that form loops and constant rotational speed. If such a drill is used, attach the
have a perimeter larger than the base diameter of the head holding means to a rigid cam as shown in Fig. 37. Use a cam
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probe and contain a breakaway feature, the following test is of 3 cm (1.18 in.) in length as measured from the center of
applied to determine release force. With the cord secured in a rotation to the edge of the clamping mechanism furthest from
vertical fashion so that the breakaway feature is essentially in the center of rotation (see Fig. 38). If necessary, manually start
the center of the two clamping devices, apply a downward the product rotating. A typical test set up is shown in Fig. 37.
force and determine if the breakaway feature releases at a force
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8.23.2 Measure the length of the tether when the tether is
less than 5.0 lbf (22.2 N). fully extended during rotation. There is no requirement to
8.23 Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toy Test Methods: measure the exact length of a tether if its fully extended length
8.23.1 The yo yo elastic tether toy is tested in its most during rotation is well below or well beyond 50 cm (20 in.) (for
onerous foreseeable use configuration. Hold the yo yo elastic example, less than 40 cm (16 in.) or greater than 60 cm (24
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FIG. 36 (a) Test Procedure for Cords and Loops, Step 1 (continued)
44
F963 − 11
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FIG. 36 (b) Test Procedure for Cords and Loops, Step 2 (continued)
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in.)). The tether length does not include the length of the mass 8.24.2 Area Measurement of the Pole Surface:
at the end, the holding means (if present), or the cam (if used). 8.24.2.1 Test Equipment—Calipers or similar device with a
8.23.2.1 To facilitate length measurement of the tether resolution of 0.1 mm.
during rotation, if helpful, mark two points along its length 8.24.2.2 Test Method—If the magnet is imbedded/attached
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when it is under no load: (1) the point where it joins the mass as part of a magnetic component, extract the magnet from the
at the end and (2) the point where it joins the holding means, component. If the pole surface of the magnet is flat, calculate
as shown in Fig. 39. the area using the appropriate geometric formula. If the pole is
8.24 Magnet Test Methods: not flat (for example, hemispherical), the pole surface area is
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8.24.1 Flux Density Measurement.: the maximum cross section of the magnet perpendicular to an
8.24.1.1 Test Equipment—dc field gauss meter with a reso- axis through the magnet poles (see Fig. 40).
lution of 5 gauss (G) and an axial type probe.
NOTE 22—On multi-pole magnets use the area of the largest single pole,
(1) An active area diameter of 0.76 6 0.13 mm. which can be determined using magnetic field viewing film or equivalent.
(2) A distance between the active area and probe tip of
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0.38 6 0.13 mm. 8.24.3 Calculation—The flux index (kG2 mm2) is calculated
8.24.1.2 Test Method: by multiplying the area of the pole surface (mm2) of the
(1) Place the probe’s tip in contact with the pole surface of magnet by the square of the maximum flux density (kG2).
the magnet. For a magnetic component (where the magnet is 8.24.4 Magnet Use and Abuse Testing—Each unique com-
fully or partially imbedded in part of the toy), place the probe’s ponent shall be tested per this section. A new toy shall be used
tip in contact with the surface of the component. that has not been subjected to other use and abuse testing. All
(2) Keep the gauss meter’s probe perpendicular to the the testing in this section must be performed in series on each
surface. unique component (that is, testing must follow 8.24.4.1 –
(3) Move the probe across the surface to locate the maxi- 8.24.4.5 in sequential order).
mum absolute flux density. 8.24.4.1 Cycling as Received—One thousand (1000) cycles
(4) Record the maximum absolute flux density measure- of intended use shall be performed on the as-received magnetic
ment. parts or magnetic assemblies. The magnetic parts shall be
45
F963 − 11
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FIG. 36 (c) Test Procedure for Cords and Loops, Step 3 (continued)
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brought together to a distance that initiates magnetic attraction, 8.25.1.2 Secure the product so that the normal folding
released, and then pulled apart to the distance where magnetic motion is not impeded.
attraction ceases. Each attachment and detachment shall count 8.25.1.3 Apply a force of 45 lbf (200 N) to the product, but
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as 1 cycle. If no other magnets or magnetic parts are provided not to the mechanism itself, in the direction normally associ-
with the toy, then the mating metal part or surface, according ated with folding. Apply the force gradually over a 5 s period
to the toy’s intended play pattern, should be used for cycling and maintain for an additional 10 s before releasing the force.
purposes. The testing may be automated or performed manu- 8.25.1.4 Perform this procedure five times within a 2 min
ally.
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period.
8.24.4.2 Impact Test—Place the magnetic part or magnetic
8.25.2 Locking Test Method—With the product in the manu-
component in an orientation that is most likely to result in
facturer’s recommended use position, gradually apply a force
breakage on a plane horizontal steel surface and drop a metallic
of 10 lbf (45 N) to the locking mechanism in the direction
weight with a mass of 2.2 lb (1.0 kg) distributed over an area
tending to unlock it. The locking mechanism shall not unlock
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with a diameter of 3.1 in. (78.7 mm) through a distance of 4.0

until a minimum force of 10 lbf (45 N) has been achieved.
in. (101.6 mm) on to it. Determine if a hazardous magnet or a
hazardous magnetic component is generated. 8.26 Test for Overload of Ride-On Toys and Toy Seats:
8.24.4.3 Torque Test—Test according to 8.8. 8.26.1 Place the toy on a horizontal plane.
8.24.4.4 Tension Test—Test according to 8.9. 8.26.2 The test load(s) shall be three times the weight
8.24.4.5 Cycling – After Abuse Test—Repeat the testing indicated in Table 6 at the highest age of the age range for
described in 8.24.4.1. which the toy is intended. The test for overload requirements
8.25 Test Methods for Locking Mechanisms or Other shall be conducted so that it will be consistent with the
Means: advertised weight capacity if that figure is higher than the
8.25.1 Locking Mechanisms or Other Means: minimum weight capacity in accordance with Table 6. When
8.25.1.1 Erect the product in accordance with the manufac- the highest age of the intended age range falls between two
turer’s instructions. ages listed in Table 6, the higher of the two shall be chosen.
46
F963 − 11
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FIG. 36 (d) Test Procedure for Cords and Loops, Step 4 (continued)
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8.26.3 Where the toy is intended to bear the weight of more producers, importers, and distributors may include a statement
than one child at a time, test each sitting or standing area (3× of compliance in conjunction with their name and address on
the weight tested separately in each location). product labels, invoices, and sales literature.
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8.26.4 Apply a static load(s) that is equal to the weight as 9.1.1 The following statements are suggested:
determined by the criteria above. The load(s) shall be applied (1) Conforms to the requirements of ASTM Standard
so that it is as close as possible to the geometric center of the Consumer Safety Specification on Toy Safety, F963 (name and
designated seating or standing area(s). If there is no designated address of producer, importer, or distributor).
seating or standing area(s), the load shall be placed at the least
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(2) Conforms to the safety requirements of Specification

favorable position that it is reasonable to anticipate that the
F963 (name and address of producer, importer, or distributor).
child will choose to sit or stand.
8.26.5 Observe whether the toy collapses within 1 min after
application of the static load(s). 10. Keywords
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10.1 battery-operated toys; children; safety labeling; safety

9. Identification testing; toy safety requirements
9.1 So that purchasers may identify products conforming to
all of the requirements of this specification on toy safety,
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FIG. 36 (e) Test Procedure for Cords and Loops, Step 5 (continued)
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FIG. 37 Example of Typical Test Set-Up
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FIG. 38 Close-Up of Clamp
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FIG. 39 Marking Unloaded Tether

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FIG. 40 Illustration of Pole Surface on a Magnet with Rounded Ends
ANNEXES
(Mandatory Information)
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A1. AGE GRADING GUIDELINES +

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A1.1 Purpose and Scope A1.2.1.1 The physical ability of a child to manipulate and
A1.1.1 Good age-grading practices are important to ensure play with the specific features of a toy. This necessitates an
understanding of the physical coordination, fine and gross
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that a toy is appropriate and safe at particular stages of physical

and mental development. motor capabilities, size, and strength generally available at a
given age.
A1.1.2 Age labeling is intended to provide point-of-sale
A1.2.1.2 The mental ability of a child to understand how to
guidance to consumers for the selection of appropriate toys for
use the toy (that is, understand instructions, sequences of
children with respect to average abilities, interests of various
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operations, objective of the toy). Consideration of the mental

age groups, and safety aspects of the toys themselves.
skills at a given age is important in order to provide a concept
A1.1.3 This guideline is intended to provide thoughts and that will challenge abilities and stimulate further development,
considerations necessary to establish meaningful age recom- yet not frustrate. Accomplishment should be neither too easy
mendations for toy products. nor too difficult to be satisfying to the child.
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A1.1.4 “Guidelines for Relating Children’s Ages to Toy A1.2.1.3 The toy must meet play needs and interests at
Characteristics (1985)” is available from the Consumer Prod- different levels of development. Understanding developmental
uct Safety Commission, Washington, DC 20207. levels and identifying play materials and play environments to
enhance each developmental stage is important for assigning
A1.2 Criteria for Establishing Age Grades appropriate age grades. Play interests and toy preferences
A1.2.1 The following criteria should be considered when change rapidly; there should be careful attention to a child’s
establishing age grading for a toy. While all of these should be preference or aversion to specific toy subjects at certain stages.
considered in total, each one may be weighted individually to In order for a toy to enhance play, it obviously must be
arrive at the appropriate age grading. appealing to its user. In short, it must be fun.
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A1.3 Tools A1.4.4.2 Infant Toys—Toys intended to be used in a crib or
A1.3.1 Use of the following tools can help guide the playpen, to be held easily by small hands, shaken, grasped,
establishment of meaningful age grading for a toy. These tools rattled, or cuddled.
are not arranged in a particular order of importance; all of them A1.4.4.3 Toy Vehicles—Cars, trucks, boats, and trains of
should be considered during the age grading process. simple chunky shape, decorated in primary colors without
A1.3.1.1 Prior experience with the toy or a similar toy in the extensive descriptive detail or representation of a particular
marketplace indicating suitability for a specific age group. make or model of vehicle and that require simple actions such
A1.3.1.2 Reference materials on comparative body mea- as rolling, dumping, pushing, and releasing.
surements and human factors elements. A1.4.4.4 Action Toys—Simple action toys for the identifi-
A1.3.1.3 Reference resources on child development norms cation of sounds or pictures and surprise action toys.
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to establish developmental mileposts. A1.4.4.5 Early Learning Toys—Toys, books, and puzzles
A1.3.1.4 Identification of developmental features to be for learning basics such as letters or numbers or shapes, and
enhanced/stimulated within certain age spans. simple physical motions such as turning wheels or knobs,
A1.3.1.5 Expertise of outside consultants, child develop- pulling and letting go, or sorting by size, etc.
ment specialists, physicians, and psychologists. A1.4.4.6 Blocks and Stacking Toys—Toys that do not re-
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A1.3.1.6 Testing of models or prototypes with children. quire finger dexterity or fitting together of small intricate
A1.3.1.7 Observing skill levels in children at play. pieces.
A1.3.1.8 Seeking opinions of parents. A1.4.4.7 Soft Balls and Similar Items—Soft, lightweight
A1.3.1.9 Interacting with children and asking questions. balls or other shapes for squeezing, shaking, rolling, or tossing.
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A1.4 Safety Considerations of Age Grading A1.4.5 Toys that should not be considered appropriate for
very young children, and therefore not be age labeled as such,
A1.4.1 The toy must be safe for the intended user. Once the have the following characteristics:
skill level has been determined, the design must be tailored to
A1.4.5.1 Toys that require intricate finger movements or
satisfy the requirements of this specification associated with
that age level.
A1.4.2 Age grades are indicators of average development,
which does not necessarily reflect suitability for the excep-
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controlled adjustments, fitting intricate pieces together.
A1.4.5.2 Toys, for example, games that require or incorpo-
rate elements of reading ability beyond the ABCs or 123s.
A1.4.5.3 Toys that simulate adult figures or characters and
tional child. A parent remains the best judge of whether the their associated accessories.
child is at the appropriate development stage for safe play with
A1.4.5.4 Collecting sets (for example, figures and vehicles).
a particular toy.
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A1.4.5.5 Projectile-type toys, launched vehicles, planes, etc.
A1.4.3 A primary consideration should be potential choking A1.4.5.6 Makeup sets.
and aspiration hazards associated with small parts. Children
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under the age of three are more prone to placing objects in their A1.4.6 Another major development cutoff has been cited at
mouths. However, the propensity to put nonfood objects in the approximately eight years of age, at which time reading ability
mouth does not disappear at the chronological age of three has progressed so that a child can, on his own, read,
years. The following toys are appropriate for children under understand, and heed instructions, caution statements, etc.
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three years of age and are cited specifically as subject to the Because the instructions and caution statements are necessary
safety requirements of 16 CFR 1501 for small parts regula- for the safe use of the product in some cases, those products
tions: should be labeled for use by children over the age of eight.
A1.4.3.1 Squeeze toys, teethers, crib exercisers, crib gyms, Products that fall into this category include the following:
crib mobiles, toys intended to be affixed to a crib, stroller, A1.4.6.1 Science and environmental kits or sets containing
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playpen, or baby carriage, pull and push toys, pounding toys, breakable glass components and complex instructions.
blocks and stacking sets, bathtub, wading pool and sand toys, A1.4.6.2 Complex model and craft sets requiring precision
rocking, spring, and stick horses and other figures, chime and assembly and finger dexterity or incorporating sharp tools or
musical balls and carousels, jack-in-the-boxes, stuffed, plush, components.
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and flocked animals and other figures, and those preschool A1.4.6.3 Electrically operated toys incorporating heating
toys, games and puzzles, riding toys, dolls and animal figures, elements.
cars, trucks, and other vehicles that are intended for use by A1.4.6.4 Certain chemistry sets, fueled model vehicles, and
children under the age of three years. rockets, etc. that contain chemicals that may be hazardous,
A1.4.4 Some of the characteristics of toys that describe cannot generally be handled safely by children unable to read
those preschool toys that are appropriate for children under the and understand instructions and cautionary statements. The
age of three years are listed below by class of toy: minimum age for which any such product should be recom-
A1.4.4.1 Dolls—Soft-bodied baby dolls or character dolls mended is eight years and then only with adult supervision.
that are for holding or cuddling, stuffed or “bean bag” dolls, rag
A1.5 Descriptive Age Labeling
or cloth dolls with simple features (including accessories), and
lightweight plastic dolls with simple features and limited A1.5.1 Manufacturers can assist parents and other purchas-
articulation at the limb joints. ers in the appropriate selection of toys by incorporating
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descriptive labeling to identify potential safety concerns if the A1.5.3 Factors to consider would include the appeal of the
toy is accessible to children outside the recommended age toy to young children, market experience, the design or
group. construction of the toy, and whether the packaging provides
A1.5.2 For example, if a toy contains small play pieces and visual indication of any small play pieces. In addition, a
is labeled for older children, such as an action figure set, the manufacturer should consider the probability that a purchaser
manufacturer should consider including a statement on the may overestimate a child’s physical or mental abilities and the
retail packaging that the toy contains small pieces. child’s understanding of a potential hazard related to the toy.
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A2. PACKAGING AND SHIPPING
A2.1 Packaging withstand the destructive forces encountered in the distribution
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A2.1.1 Packages that are intended to be opened by adult cycle. The tests used most widely include drop, vibration,
purchasers should be constructed as to avoid hazards during the compression, and incline impact. Limited testing may be
opening process from metal fasteners, particularly staples, and sufficient for many toys, especially those that are of light
should not contain common pins used to position the toy within weight and constructed of resilient materials, such as dolls and
the package. stuffed toys. Others, however, such as large plastic or heavy
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metal toys, may be damaged during shipment and should be
A2.2 Shipping subjected to appropriate tests. Guidance for useful tests can be
A2.2.1 Packaged and unpackaged toys can be subjected to a obtained from the following ASTM sources: Test Methods
wide variety of tests designed to test the ability of toys to D642, D5276, D880, and D999.
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A3. DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR TOYS ATTACHED TO CRIBS OR PLAYPENS
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A3.1 Purpose and Scope A3.2.2 Examples of the implementation of good design
A3.1.1 This annex provides guidance for design practices practices for crib and playpen environments include the fol-
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intended to encourage the careful examination of product lowing:

characteristics and configurations with respect to safety. As (1) Rounded corners with the use of generous radii wher-
there are no objective means for determining conformance with ever possible.
these design guidelines, they are not to be used to judge (2) Smooth contours that minimize abrupt changes in shape
compliance with this specification. that could easily become a catch point for strings, ribbons,
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elastic, or loose clothing.

A3.2 Guidelines (3) Isolation of fastening hardware using recesses, counter-
A3.2.1 Designs for all products intended to be attached to bores, or other similar methods.
cribs or playpens should be accomplished in a manner that (4) Reduction of the potential for any mismatch of surfaces
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minimizes the potential for strings, ribbons, elastic, or parts of where a catch point could develop.
clothing to become caught on the product, such that an infant
is placed in a dangerous predicament in which possible
strangulation could occur.
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A4. DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR BATH TOY PROJECTIONS
A4.1 Purpose and Scope consideration of the potential positions the toy can rest on the
A4.1.1 This annex provides guidance for design practices bottom of a bath tub, with or without water present in the bath
intended to result in bath toy projection characteristics and tub, to produce a vertical or nearly vertical projection.
configurations that will minimize the risk of injury to the A4.2.2.2 Stability—If a toy topples over when force is
genital and anorectal area if a child were to sit or fall onto the applied to the end of the vertical projection, both when the bath
bath toy projection while in an unclothed or minimally clothed toy is empty and filled with water, then the vertical projection
state. Some examples of these potentially hazardous projec- is unlikely to be hazardous.
A4.2.2.3 Accessibility—Vertical projections can be pro-
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tions include but are not limited to rigid fins of fish, rigid hulls,
funnels, and masts of boats. tected by suitable means to minimize possible injury. A
protected projection is one that has adequate adjacent structure
A4.2 Guidelines (ribs, housings, or other permanent components) to render the
projection unlikely to cause penetration or impalement haz-
A4.2.1 It is important that the design of a bath toy be
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ards.
developed with consideration of the shapes, dimensions and
A4.2.2.4 Flexibility—Vertical projections can be designed
materials of any projections on the toy such that penetration
to be flexible to minimize possible injury. This can be done
and impalement hazards are minimized.
through the choice of materials, a design which bends or
A4.2.2 Examples of good design practices include: compresses or the dimensions of the projection.
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A4.2.2.1 Non-Vertical Projections—It is preferable to have A4.2.2.5 Diameter—The diameter (or cross-sectional pro-
projections designed such that they are always non-vertical jected area) of a vertical projection can be sized large enough
when the toy is evaluated in all stable positions including to minimize possible injury.
A5. FLAMMABILITY TESTING PROCEDURE FOR SOLIDS AND SOFT TOYS

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A5.1 Purpose
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A5.1.1 This annex establishes the protocol and general
criteria for flammability testing of solids, and soft toys in
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conformance with the requirements of 16 CFR

1500.3(c)(6)(vi).
A5.2 Definitions
A5.2.1 major axis—a straight line through the longest
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dimension of the product connecting the most distant parts or

ends of the product. A product can have more than one major
axis (see Fig. A5.1), but they must be equal in length. For toys
that pose or transform, position the product so that its major
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axis is the longest possible dimension.

A5.2.2 soft toy—any stuffed or plush toy, that may or may
not be parts or components of other toys.
A5.2.3 solids—toys or toy parts constructed of rigid,
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flexible, or pliable solids.

A5.2.4 accessories—an item intended to be removed to
enhance the play pattern.
A5.2.5 strings—long slender flexible material usually con-
sisting of several strands (as of thread or yarn) woven or
twisted together, usually used to bind, fasten, tether, or tie. This
does not include string when used, for example, for hair on a NOTE 1—Lines A-A and B-B are both major axes. Line C-C is not a
doll. major axis.
FIG. A5.1 Illustration for Determining Major Axis
A5.2.6 paper—a thin, flat, single layer of material produced
by the compression of fibers. The fibers are usually composed
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of cellulose. Examples of paper products are traditional playing (2) One or more specimens shall be ignited at one end of
cards, newspaper, magazines, and construction paper. Ex- the major axis, and when practical, one or more specimens
amples of products that are not paper are cardboard, and shall be ignited at the opposite end of the major axis.
paperboard (multiple layers of paper bonded together). Specimens shall be positioned in the worst case position, as
dictated by experience.
A5.3 Exemptions
A5.5.4 Trim the candle and wick as necessary to maintain a
A5.3.1 Strings, paper, and ping-pong balls.
flame height of 5⁄8 to 1 in. (16 to 25 mm).
A5.3.2 Accessible components having a major dimension of A5.5.4.1 Hold a burning paraffin candle whose diameter is
1 in. (25 mm) or less. at least 1 in. (25 mm) so that the flame is a minimum of 5⁄8 in.
A5.3.3 Textile fabrics intended to be removed shall be (16 mm) high, with the tip of the inner cone of the flame in
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tested separately and meet the requirements of A6.1. Fabrics contact with the surface of the sample at the end of the major
not intended to be removed shall become subject to the test to axis for 5 s. Maintain contact of the candle with the sample for
the extent that it becomes a part of the test surface. 5 s or until ignition occurs. If the sample melts away from the
A5.3.4 Sleeping bags. flame, move the candle and maintain contact for the full 5 s or
until the sample ignites. If the ignition occurs immediately,
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A5.3.5 Packaging materials intended to be discarded by the hold the candle steady and allow the ignited flame to move
consumer. Components of packaging that are likely to be away.
incorporated into the play pattern of the toy are not exempt.
A5.5.5 Remove the candle and allow the sample to burn for
A5.4 Sample Preparation for Solids and Soft Toys an additional 55 s (total burn time including ignition time is 60
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A5.4.1 Test product completely assembled as per manufac- s) or until the flames reach the opposite end of the major axis.
turer’s instructions. If disassembly is required for storage Determine the time of combustion by means of a stop watch.
purposes only, test when fully assembled as per manufacturer’s Do not allow the total test time to exceed 60 s with a
instructions. If assembly or disassembly, or both, is part of the self-sustaining flame.
play pattern (that is, accessories, puzzles, construction toys,
etc.) test each component separately.
A5.4.2 Remove all string or paper from the product as
deemed necessary.
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A5.5.6 Extinguish the flame with a CO2 or similar nonde-
structive extinguisher, if necessary, after the 60 s. The experi-
enced application of water is an acceptable method for extin-
guishing the flame.
A5.5 Procedure for Solids and Soft Toys NOTE A5.2—Extinguishing the flame must be accomplished in a
manner that preserves the accuracy of the burned distance.
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A5.5.1 Place the prepared sample in a draft-free area that
can be ventilated and cleared after each test. The temperature A5.5.7 Measure the length of the burned area, and calculate
of the sample at the time of testing shall be between 68 and the rate of burning along the major axis of the sample.
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86°F (20 and 30°C) at a relative humidity of 20 to 70 %. A5.5.8 Products that do not ignite are considered accept-
A5.5.2 The test fixture shall be corrected to a clean condi- able. No burn rate is calculated for these samples. The burn rate
tion prior to the start of each test. for products that self-extinguish in less than 60 s shall be
computed by using the actual burning time as the denominator
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A5.5.3 Measure the dimensions of the sample, and support

when calculating the burn rate. For example, ignited product
it by means of the test fixture (see Fig. A5.2) or equivalent, so
burns 3 in. (76 mm) in 20 s and self-extinguishes. The burn rate
that the ends of the major axis are oriented horizontally.
is calculated as follows:
Placing a scale along the major axis is a sufficient means for
gauging the burn distance. 3 in.
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5 0.15 in./s (A5.1)

A5.5.3.1 Orientation and Locations for Ignition of 20 s
Specimens—When orienting specimens, provide support over
A5.5.8.1 Burn-rate calculations for a product that self-
the entire length of the major axis without sagging, making
extinguishes must be approached cautiously to avoid the
sure the supporting device does not retard the spread of flame
introduction of measurement error since small measurement
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materially. Optional: for samples with long hair, it may be

errors can become a significant portion of final calculations
necessary to add fine wire (24 AWG or higher) between some
when the burn distance is short.
nails to provide sufficient support for the hair. The addition of
support for hair is not necessary unless the hair hangs down NOTE A5.3—It is unlikely that the CPSC would pursue an enforcement
vertically while lying on the test fixture. action that includes a burn rate calculation higher than 0.10 in. per second
and yet consistently self-extinguishes during the test. However, the CPSC
NOTE A5.1—The CPSC does not test hair separately but rather tests hair reserves the right to proceed with an action if such a burn rate may result
as a normal part of the toy. The toy might be tested in a face-down in the product’s causing substantial personal injury or substantial illness.
position, with the hair in a horizontal position on top of the toy. The toy
could also be tested lying on its back, with the hair lying beneath the toy. (1) When the product does not self-extinguish, the flame
Hair that hangs vertically would not be used to calculate the burn rate. shall be allowed to continue for a total time of 60 s. Calculate
(1) A sample that is so large that it becomes impractical to the rate of burning using the actual distance of flame spread
support its entire length must be arranged in such a manner that during the full 60 s. For example, the product ignites and burns
support at the end of a major axis is provided by the test fixture. 9 in. (229 mm) in 60 s. The burn rate is calculated as follows:
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Item Required Description Material

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1 9 # 10–32 × 0.38 LG. S.H.C.S.

2 64 # 8d × 2.50 LG. Common Nail
3 1 0.13 × 10.00 × 10.00 LG. Stainless Steel
4 1 0.25 × 10.00 × 10.00 LG. Stainless Steel
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NOTE 1—Tolerances (unless otherwise specified):

3 Place DIMS 6 0.005
2 Place DIMS 6 0.015
Angles 6 1°
NOTE 2—Break all sharp edges and screw to suit unless otherwise specified.
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FIG. A5.2 Suggested Flammability Test Fixture
9 in. full length of the major axis, extinguish the flame immediately
5 0.15 in./s ~ a flammable solid! (A5.2)
60 s regardless of whether or not the full 60 s has been reached. The
NOTE A5.4—While testing, samples shall not be extinguished prema- burn rate is calculated as follows:
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turely if such action will affect the burn rate. For example, if a stuffed
rabbit is ignited at the tip of one ear and the flame is extinguished when 6 in.
5 0.15 in./s (A5.3)
the flame reaches the base of the ear, this may produce an inflated burn 40 s
rate if the ear material burns at a faster rate than the rest of the product.
Therefore, allow the sample to burn the full 60 s taking into account both A5.6 Requirements
the ear and the rest of the product.
A5.6.1 A toy shall be considered a flammable solid if it
(2) There may be scenarios where the flame may need to be
ignites and burns with a self-sustaining flame at a rate greater
extinguished prematurely prior to reaching the full 60 s. For
than 0.1 in./s (2.5 mm/s) along its major axis.
example, the major axis of a product is 6 in. in length. The
product ignites and burns the total length of the major axis (6 A5.6.2 If the burn rate of a composite product (that is,
in.) in 40 s but continues to flame. Once the flame travels the solid/fabric combined) exceeds 0.10 in./s in part due to the
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presence of a permanently attached fabric, then a secondary be based on a minimum of four samples. This provides a
test shall be performed to determine compliance. The second- reasonable opportunity for detecting undesirable variations in
ary test shall consist of removing the permanently attached the product. Proceed as follows:
fabric from the solid and retesting the solid component (1) If the burn rate of all samples is less than 0.1 in./s (2.5
separately. When sold as part of a toy such that the permanently mm/s), accept.
attached fabric cannot be removed without causing damage to (2) If the burn rate of all samples is greater than 0.1 in./s
the toy and the fabric (that is, fabric covered book, stuffed (2.5 mm/s) but less than 0.15 in./s (3.75 mm/s), accept and
dolls/animals, etc.) or if the toy is an enclosure that a child can consider further investigation for action to improve perfor-
enter, the fabric shall become subject to the solids test to the mance.
extent that it becomes a part of the major axis. (3) If the burn rate of one of the samples is 0.15 in./s (3.75
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NOTE A5.5—The permanently attached fabric that was removed from mm/s) or greater, reject and repeat the test with four additional
the sample must now be subject to meeting the requirements of Annex A6. samples (one time only). If the burn rate of any of the retested
A5.6.3 Criteria for Acceptance: samples is 0.15 in./s. or greater, reject.
A5.6.3.1 Sample size = four, whenever practical. (4) If the burn rate of more than one of the initial 4 samples
A5.6.3.2 A burn rate is not calculated for samples that do is 0.15 in./s (3.75 mm/s) or greater, reject.
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not ignite.
A5.6.3.3 Calculate the burn rate to two significant figures NOTE A5.6—CPSC makes its decision on whether a product is a
flammable solid based on the burn rate of each individual sample. It then
(to the nearest hundredth using conventional rounding rules,
determines whether the product may cause substantial personal injury or
that is, for 5 or higher, round up). substantial illness during or as a proximate result of any customary or
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A5.6.3.4 Round the burn rate to the nearest tenth (that is, reasonably foreseeable handling or use. CPSC has no objection to other
round 0.15 up to 0.2). laboratories rounding off to the nearest 0.1 in./s. It will calculate burn rates
A5.6.3.5 Level of acceptance = 0.1 in./s (2.5 mm/s), to two decimal places but does not envision enforcement action where the
maximum, along the major axis. burn rate is greater than 0.10 in./s and less than 0.15 in./s. However, CPSC
A5.6.3.6 Additional Guidance for Manufacturers— reserves the right to proceed if such burn rate may result in the product’s
Manufacturers’ decisions on the performance of an item should
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causing substantial personal injury or substantial illness.
A6. FLAMMABILITY TESTING PROCEDURE FOR FABRICS

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A6.1 Purpose are permanently attached to a common substrate, then it shall be tested. An
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example of this would be a doll’s hula skirt made of thin strips of fabric
A6.1.1 This annex establishes the protocol and general 6 in. in length. Each individual strip is joined at the top by a common
criteria for flammability testing of fabrics in conformance with substrate (that is, plastic waistband) and when combined with the other
the requirements of 16 CFR 1500.3 (c)(6)(vi). strips immediately adjacent to it, a 2 by 6 in. sample can be extracted.
A6.3.2 Fabrics that are permanently attached to a solid must
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A6.2 Definitions initially be tested with the solid per Annex A5.
A6.2.1 fabric—any coated or uncoated material (except film
and fabrics having a nitro-cellulose fiber, finish or coating) that A6.4 Sample Preparation
is woven, knitted, felted, or otherwise produced from any A6.4.1 Precondition all fabrics in a horizontal position for a
natural or manmade fiber, or substitute therefore, or combina-
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minimum of 30 min at a temperature of 221 6 10°F.

tion thereof.
A6.4.2 Fabrics intended to be washed shall be subjected to
A6.2.2 plain surface fabric—any textile fabric which does AATCC Home Laundering Fabrics Prior to Flammability
not have an intentionally raised fiber or yarn surface such as Testing to Differentiate Between Durable and Non-Durable
pile, nap, or tuft, but shall include those fabrics having fancy
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Finishes - 2007.
woven, knitted or flock printed surfaces.
A6.4.3 A total of 5 samples, whenever practical, shall be cut
A6.2.3 raised surface fabric—any textile fabric which has for each location. Samples may be obtained from more than
an intentionally raised fiber or yarn surface such as a pile, nap one toy.
or tufting.
A6.4.4 Samples shall be tested in the manner in which they
A6.3 Exemptions appear on the toy (that is, exposed side face-up).
A6.3.1 Fabrics where a contiguous 2 by 6 in. piece cannot A6.4.5 Use the most onerous orientation (for example, warp
be extracted. or fill).
NOTE A6.1—If a contiguous 2 by 6 in. piece of fabric cannot be A6.4.6 If it is necessary to use a sample that consists of
obtained, but due to the existence of other fabrics adjacent to it a more than one type of fabric, then take the sample from the
composite 2 by 6 in. sample can be obtained, and the fabrics in question most onerous location.
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FIG. A6.2 Fabric Requiring Support
FIG. A6.1 Layered Fabric Sample
A6.4.7 If fabric is layered and the layers are permanently

secured to one another (for example, stitched together) at any
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A6.5 Test Procedure
A6.5.1 Test fabrics per the test method specified in 16 CFR
1610.4(g).
A6.5.2 Use the equipment as specified in 16 CFR 1610.4(b).
point, cut through as many materials necessary to obtain the
A6.6 Requirements
sample and include all layers in a single sample. Orient layers
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in the sample holder in the same manner they appear on the toy. A6.6.1 Plain Surface Fabrics:
(See Fig. A6.1.) A6.6.1.1 Specimens are acceptable if:
(1) All specimens either did not ignite, ignited but self-
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A6.4.8 For fabrics with finished ends made of a different extinguished, or any combination thereof.
material (that is, lace, ribbons, etc.) test the finished ends (2) Average burn time is 3.5 s or greater.
separately. A6.6.1.2 If only 1 of 5 specimens ignites and burns the stop
A6.4.9 If the finished ends consist of the same material as cord with a time of 3.5 s or more, samples are acceptable.
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the sample being tested (that is, hemmed, folded, etc.) then A6.6.1.3 If only 1 of 5 specimens ignites and burns the stop
attempt to exclude this from the 2 by 6 sample. In addition, if cord in less than 3.5 seconds, test another set of 5 specimens.
the fabric contains any seams or stitching, attempt to exclude Compute the average time of flame spread for all 10 speci-
them from the sample. If a sample cannot be extracted by mens. If 2 or more of these specimens ignite and burn the stop
cord, average the results from those specimens. If only 1 of the
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excluding the finished ends or seams/stitching, then include

them in the sample during testing, however, orient the sample 10 specimens ignites and burns the stop cord, samples are
in the fixture so that the finished ends or seams/stitching are at acceptable.
the top or side of the fixture to minimize any effect it may have A6.6.2 Raised Surface Fabrics:
on the burn rate. A6.6.2.1 Specimens are acceptable if:
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(1) All specimens either did not ignite, ignited but self-
A6.4.10 If the fabric requires support in order to be held in
extinguished, or any combination thereof.
the fixture, then the use of thin gauge wire (24 AWG or higher)
(2) Average burn time is 4 s or greater.
strung across the plate opening at equidistant points from each
(3) Average burn time is less than 4 s and all specimens
other is acceptable. (See Fig. A6.2.)
burn with a surface flash where the intensity of the surface
A6.4.11 Regardless of sample size, if the fabric has non- flame is insufficient to ignite, char, or melt the base fabric.
fabric components permanently attached to it (that is, buttons, (4) Only 1 of 5 specimens ignites and burns in less than 4
sequins, beads, etc.) remove these components only if removal s and the base fabric does not ignite or fuse, the sample is
will not cause permanent damage to the fabric or to the acceptable.
non-fabric component. Then test each component separately as (5) Only 1 of 5 specimens ignites or burns in more than 4
applicable. If permanent damage cannot be avoided during s, regardless of whether the base fabric ignites or fuses, the
removal, then test with non-fabric components attached. sample is acceptable.
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F963 − 11
A6.6.2.2 To compute the average time of flame spread for of 5 specimens. Compute the average time of flame spread for
each set of 5 specimens, at least 2 of the specimens must ignite all 10 specimens. If 2 or more of the 10 specimens ignite and
and burn the stop cord. burn the stop cord, average the results from those specimens. If
A6.6.2.3 If only 1 of 5 specimens ignites and burns in less only 1 of the 10 specimens ignites and burns the stop cord,
than 4 s where the base fabric ignites or fuses, test another set samples are acceptable.
A7. COMPOSITING PROCEDURE FOR TOTAL HEAVY METAL ANALYSIS
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A7.1 Purpose A7.4.5 Equal weights (to the extent achievable by good
A7.1.1 Composite testing for a total digestion analysis may laboratory practice) of each of the similar or like materials
be conducted to potentially reduce the number of tests con- must be used in the composite sample.
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ducted. Combining different but like materials into a composite A7.5 Calculation
analysis must be done with adequate care and understanding of
the limitations and potential propagations of error in measure- A7.5.1 As an example, results for the Arsenic (As) content
ment or the test may fail to detect excessive metals in one of are calculated and reported as follows:
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the individual materials. Total As concentration:%As ~ wt./wt.! 5 0.10cd/w (A7.1)
A7.2 Definitions where:

A7.2.1 Composite Testing – Different Materials— c = concentration of arsenic detected (µg/ml)
Combining different but similar materials to reduce the number d = dilution volume (mL)
of digestions and instrumental metal analyses performed.
A7.2.2 Similar or Like Materials—Materials that have simi-
lar characteristics may be combined into one composite
sample. Glass may be composited together; and plastics
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w = weight of aliquot digested (mg)
A7.5.1.1 One example of composite testing of different
plastics would be as follows, and considers the case of
weighing to the nearest 0.01 mg, digesting in acid, diluting to
composited together; however glass and plastic may not be a final volume of 10 or 20 mL, and testing on an ICP-OES with
composited together as they require different digestant mix- an MDL of 0.04 µg/mL. A sample comprising red, green, and
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tures to achieve complete digestion. Coatings on metal sub- orange plastics is tested as a composite using 15.0 mg of red
strates should not be composited with coatings on non-metal plastic, 16.0 mg of green plastic, and 17.0 mg of orange plastic.
substrates. The resulting 48.0 mg of composite plastic from this example
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is digested in acid and diluted to 10 ml, and then the diluted

A7.3 Exclusions digest is found to contain 0.0008 % arsenic. The combined 3
A7.3.1 Metal substrates with different compositions should aliquots of plastic would have contributed to a total of 0.40 µg
not be composited together as one may interfere in the of arsenic for the composite sample. Although the average
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digestion process and cause re-precipitation or incomplete concentration in this case would be 8 ppm, the individual
digestion, therefore affecting the actual result. contributions are not known, and one must calculate the arsenic
concentration of each plastic as if all of the arsenic originated
A7.4 Sample Preparation from it. Thus, the red plastic could contain up to 0.4 µg / 0.0015
A7.4.1 Each individual component must be weighed indi- g = 27 ppm (µg/g), with similarly calculated results of 25 ppm
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vidually with sufficient precision and sufficient safety factors to and 24 ppm for the green and orange plastics. See Table A7.1.
assure that no false negatives are reported. A7.5.2 As another similar example, results for the arsenic
A7.4.2 Sufficient materials must be used for each of the (As) content are calculated and reported in Table A7.2. All of
components giving proper consideration for the weighing individual plastics (11 ppm, 11 ppm, 12 ppm) in the above
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capabilities of the balance used and the detection limits and composite do not exceed 0.0020 % (20 ppm) for arsenic (80 %
necessary dilution for the subsequent instrumental analysis. of 0.0025 % arsenic limit). The composite passes and so do the
A7.4.3 The combined materials are digested according to individual plastics. Therefore the plastics do not need to be
the appropriate procedure, depending on the material, before tested individually.
analysis by atomic spectroscopy or other appropriate validated A7.5.3 Composite analysis by ICP-MS or another validated
method. method of equivalent sensitivity or the use of a larger sample
A7.4.4 Appropriate weights of each of the individual mate- weight may be necessary when an element has a low regulatory
rials composited depend on final dilution volumes, weighing limit and high detection limit (reporting limit), such as with
accuracy, and detection limits. arsenic.
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F963 − 11
TABLE A7.1 Total Arsenic (As) Analysis – Composite Testing
(c) (d) (w)
Item Analytical Results As (µg/ml) Dilution Volume (ml) Total As (µg) Sample wt (mg) Potential As (%) per Component As (%) Composite
Red Plastic 0.04A 10 0.4A 15.0 0.0027
Green Plastic 0.04A 10 0.4A 16.0 0.0025
Orange Plastic 0.04A 10 0.4A 17.0 0.0024
Total Composite 0.04A 10 0.4A 48.0 0.0008B
A
In a composite of different plastics, the analytical result for the total composite would be applied to each component part as if all the arsenic was in that component plastic.
B
In this example, the arsenic concentration of the combined plastics is 0.0008 %, which is below the 0.002 % arsenic acceptable limit (80 % of the 0.0025 % arsenic limit),
however any individual component having a result based on it’s sample weight that is greater than 80 % of the heavy metal limit should be retested individually. For
example, all of individual plastics in the above composite exceed 0.0020 % for arsenic (80 % of 0.0025 % arsenic limit) so all of the plastics should be tested individually.
This calculation and data interpretation would be applied to the remaining heavy metals.
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TABLE A7.2 Total Arsenic (As) Analysis – Composite Testing
(c) (d) (w)
Item Analytical Results As (µg/ml) Dilution Volume (ml) Total As (µg) Sample wt (mg) Potential As (%) per Component As (%) Composite
Red Plastic 0.04 20 0.8 72.0 0.0011
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Green Plastic 0.04 20 0.8 70.0 0.0011
Orange Plastic 0.04 20 0.8 66.0 0.0012
Total Composite 0.04 20 0.8 208.0 0.0004
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A7.6 Rationale specifying the conditions under which compositing is
A7.6.1 Composite heavy element testing of several samples allowable, when a composite result may be relied upon without
of slightly differing but essentially similar materials (for further testing, and when testing of individual samples must
example, several colors of polyethylene plastic) is desirable to subsequently be performed. Composite testing has been limited
reduce testing cost if this can be accomplished without
compromising in any way the achievement of the same
attribute (that is, pass/fail) result which would have been
reached had the samples been tested individually. Annex A7
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to total digestion (vis-a-vis soluble) analyses primarily in order
to align with the European Union harmonized standard EN
71-3, which specifically forbids compositing for its required
(soluble) analyses.
outlines detailed procedures for accomplishing this end by
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A8. RATIONALE FOR 2007 REVISIONS
A8.1 Definitions17 A8.2.1.1 These requirements have been developed after

extensive review of known research on noise-related injury to
A8.1.1 Section 3—New definitions for terms used in this
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hearing and existing published recommendations for noise

version of Consumer Safety Specification F963:
limits. They are intended to reduce the risk of damage to
hazardous magnet
hearing due to high continuous and impulse noise levels. They
hazardous magnetic component
apply only to toys that are designed to emit sound, i.e., toys that
impulsive sound
have sound producing features such as electric or electronic
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maximum A-weighted sound pressure level

devices, percussion caps, rattling components, etc.
rattle
reference A8.2.1.2 The requirements in 4.5.1.1 and 4.5.1.2 are in-
strap tended to address those hazards presented by continuous
tangle or form a loop sounds (e.g., speech, music). These hazards are chronic and
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yo-yo elastic tether toy typically manifest themselves after years of exposure. The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has
A8.2 Sound Producing Toys set acceptable limits at 85 dB(A) for 8 h of exposure. An
A8.2.1 Sections 4.5 and 8.19—These sections have been independent audiologist consulted by the ASTM work group
totally replace by a new set of requirements and a new test recommended a similar exposure level. His recommendations
procedure. for an 8 h exposure level, Leq, 8h, were 85 dB(A) for
continuous sound, and 82 dB(A) for the continuous sound
emitted from toys that produce both continuous and impulsive
sound.
17
This rationale pertains only to those changes made in the 2007 edition of
Consumer Safety Specification F963. Rationales for previous editions may be
A8.2.1.3 Exposure to noise from toys is intermittent and
obtained from ASTM International Headquarters by requesting Research Report integrated with other daily noises. It is unlikely that a toy
RR:F15-1000. would present 8 h continuous exposure to sound. These
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F963 − 11
assumptions are consistent with the findings of European Estimated weight of sticky hand (hand portion only) is 0.0045
research conducted by ISVR Consultancy Services in South- kg (0.01 lb). The appropriate value for the mass at the end of
ampton U.K. and published as “Noise from Toys and its Effect the tether was chosen to be between these two values, 0.02 kg
on Hearing.” Based on that study, the probable duration of play (0.04 lb).
with a sound producing toy was determined by the ISVR to be A8.3.1.1 The cord length is based on two times the neck
1.5 h per day. circumference of a 5th-percentile 3-year-old from Childata, or
A8.2.1.4 Using the recommended exposure levels from the 2 × 24.0 cm = 48 cm (18.9 in.). The age of 3 years was chosen
audiologist, the ISVR study’s conclusion on the duration of based on the age of children involved in the incident data.
play, and a 3 dB exchange rate, the equivalent recommended
values are 92.3 dB(A) and 89.3 dB(A), respectively. Rounding A8.3.1.2 The rotational speed of 80 RPM was determined
each value to the nearest 5 dB(A) yields 90 dB(A) for both. The by testing adults and determining the maximum RPM they can
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ISVR study referenced above also concluded that 25 cm was an achieve rotating a product above their heads. The range of adult
average use distance for toys. However, a 50 cm distance is speed was 80 – 108 RPM, the average was 90 RPM and the
superior for measurement purposes. Therefore, the 25 cm, 90 standard deviation was 7 based on a sample size of 14. This
dB(A) requirement was converted to its 50 cm equivalent. The was reduced to 80 RPM as an estimate for the speed children
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50 cm free-field equivalent of 90 dB(A) at 25 cm is 84 dB(A). 3 to 6 years old can achieve. The incident data indicated that
This was rounded to 85 dB(A) to arrive at the final require- children 3 to 6 years old are most often involved in yo yo
ment. elastic tether incidents.
A8.2.1.5 The ISVR study uses a distance for close-to-the-
A8.4 Magnets in Toys
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ear toys of 2.5 cm. Using the same reasoning applied above,
the 50 cm free-field equivalent of 2.5 cm, 90 dB(A) is 64 A8.4.1 Section 4.38—These requirements address the re-
dB(A). This was rounded to 65 dB(A) to arrive at the final cent incidents of magnet ingestion resulting in serious injury or
close-to-the-ear-toy requirement. death by identifying magnets or magnetic components that can
A8.2.1.6 The requirements in 4.5.1.3 – 4.5.1.5 are intended be readily swallowed. It requires these hazardous magnets and
to address those hazards presented by impulsive sounds (e.g.,
percussion caps), which can be especially hazardous. Perma-
nent damage to hearing may occur after only one exposure to
high impulsive sound levels.
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hazardous magnetic components to be reliably contained in a
product, or carry a warning. Hazardous magnets and hazardous
magnetic components are identified by describing both a
magnetic strength of concern, along with a size and shape that
A8.2.1.7 A technically accurate impulsive sound require- can be swallowed.
ment would involve a combination of decibel levels and
A8.4.1.1 The following areas were considered:
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number of repetitions per day of the sound and also determin-
ing the potential for misuse (actuating close to the ear). This (a) Data indicate that powerful magnets have been in-
alternative would result in some subjective determinations volved in all known ingestion incidents to date. The data also
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regarding repetitions/day and the likelihood for actuating close suggest that magnet ingestion was not a problem in toys until
to the ear. Therefore, a conservative approach was adopted that powerful magnets (such as NIB magnets) became cost effective
limits impulsive sounds to 120 dB (C-weighted peak). This and commonplace several years ago. Ceramic, rubberized, and
requirement protects against misuse and allows up to 10 000 ferrite magnets have substantially lower attractive forces and
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repetitions per day according to OHSA guidelines. The 50 cm therefore must be made larger to provide sufficient magnetism,
free-field equivalent of 25 cm, 120 dB(C) is 114 dB(C). This which makes them less likely to be swallowed.
was rounded to 115 dB(C) to arrive at the final requirement. (b) The magnets/magnetic components involved in the
This requirement only applies to impulsive sounds created by ingestion incidents were small objects (see 4.6 and Fig. 3).
non-explosive means (e.g., two masses colliding).
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Therefore, the requirements have indicated that hazardous

A8.2.1.8 Impulsive sound level requirements for toys that magnets or hazardous magnetic components must not be small
produce sound from explosion (e.g., caps) have been treated objects.
separately. A higher decibel level (125 dB(C)) is allowed for (c) The exemptions represent magnets which are used in
these types of toys because of the human ear’s inability to applications that are not obvious to the consumer. These are
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respond to waveforms with such rapid rise-times such as these. very common magnet uses and there are no data associated
A8.3 Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toys with these magnets.
(d) Products intended for children under three are already
A8.3.1 Sections 4.37 and 8.23—The task group concluded subject to the small parts requirement which would include
that the mass on the end of the tether was significant in creating these magnets or magnetic components.
the strangulation potential of a yo yo elastic tether toy. That is
why these yo yo products have been associated with near A8.4.2 Section 5.17—The warning specifically explains the
strangulations, and similar products with little mass on the end hazard as “sticking across intestines.” Studies of warnings
such as a “sticky” hand have no similar data. The mass was show that when the audience can “picture it,” even when there
determined by weighing product known to be associated with is no picture, then compliance with the warning increases. In
wrapping around neck. Yo yo elastic tether samples evaluated the final analysis, the “intestines” statement makes this warn-
weighed 0.1 kg (0.2 lb), 0.07 kg (.15 lb), and 0.07 kg (0 .15 lb). ing more effective than it would be without it.
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F963 − 11
A8.4.3 Section 8.24—If the play pattern of the toy includes (100 mm). Plastic sheets or bags with a minor dimension less
repeated attaching and detaching of the magnet(s), the mag- than 3.9 in. (100 mm) will not entirely cover the face of a 4 to
net(s) shall be subjected to repeated attachment and detach- 6-month-old infant.
ment that is expected over the life of the toy. Furthermore, if it A8.6.1.1 Both ISO 8124 and EN 71 allow for perforations
is likely that other components included in the toy can attach to of the sheeting if it does not meet the thickness requirements.
the magnet(s), then the magnet(s) and the other components There is no injury data from the EU to indicate that perforated
shall be dropped/impacted together during use/abuse testing. film presents a hazard. The 1 % area for perforations is
considered to be sufficient to sustain an air flow and prevent the
A8.5 Hemispheric Shaped Objects adhering of the film to the face.
A8.5.1 Section 4.36—Data analysis of the “cupped” shaped A8.6.2 Section 4.14:
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objects involved in the fatal and non-fatal incidents, indicated A8.6.2.1 Section 3.1.75—Definition of strap added to
that the wall thickness of the objects involved in the incidents clarify and expound test method verbiage in 4.14. Children
ranged from approximately 0.04 in. (1 mm) to 0.12 in. (3 mm). under the age of 18 months have developed certain gross motor
Based on this data, it was believed that wall thickness was not skills (e.g., can grasp and pick up objects). However, they lack
a concern. It is also important to note that, wall thickness is not fine motor skills such as those required to insert the end of
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cords/straps/elastics though a small opening or to wrap a
a relevant factor for objects with diameters at the upper end of
cord/elastic multiple times around a wheel.
the requirements as these sized objects may fit around/under
A8.6.2.2 Section 4.14.1.1—Details requirements for break-
the chin.
away features on cords, straps, and elastics.
A8.5.1.1 However, since publication of this requirement,
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A8.6.2.3 Section 4.14.2—Clarifies scope of test method by
questions have been raised in the United States and Europe adding "strap" as an additional type of cord/elastic covered by
regarding objects with “thick” walls or rims—what is the the requirement.
appropriate measurement for these objects, inner or outer A8.6.2.4 Section 8.22.2—This section provides an addi-
diameter? The work group has discussed the intent of the tional testing method and supplemental diagrams (with details
requirement and has concluded that the inner diameter mea-
surement is the critical element in determining whether or not
a “cupped” shaped object has the potential to fit a child’s face
and create a vacuum. Therefore, a change from outer diameter
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for additional equipment) that should be used for materials that
have a loop perimeter smaller than the tapered end of the head
probe.
A8.6.2.5 Section 8.22.3—Details testing method for deter-
to inner diameter is recommended. mining the release force required for breakaway features on
cords, straps, and elastics.
A8.5.2 Section 4.36.6(e) —The new option for a single
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large opening in the base includes the area that is defined by the A8.7 Miscellaneous Editorial Changes
original two small opening minimum dimensions (0.080 in./2 A8.7.1 Section 4.6—The word “choking” has been added to
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mm) and the minimum space in between these openings (0.5 the test to be consistent with the language of 16 CFR 1501.
in./13 mm). The 0.66 in./17 mm dimension is calculated as
0.080/2 mm + 0.080/2 mm + 0.5/13 mm. This approach is A8.7.2 Section 4.15.6—This section references the dynamic
consistent with the option for ventilation in 4.16.1.1. Similarly, strength test in 8.20. This reference had been omitted in the
previous version of Consumer Safety Specification F963.
placement of this opening at least 0.5 in. (13 mm) from the rim
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of the object should ensure that facial features such as the nose A8.7.3 Section 4.17—Reference to the wrong definition has
or chin, or flesh, will not completely block the opening. been corrected to 3.1.60.
A8.7.4 Section 4.25—Abuse testing in 8.6 – 8.10 of the
A8.6 Miscellaneous Technical Issues standard is not applied to toys intended for children over 96
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A8.6.1 Section 4.12—The purpose of this section is to months (this is laid out in Table 5). Therefore, it is redundant
minimize the potential of asphyxiation hazards that may be and unnecessary to break down the age group in this way in the
caused by thin packaging film, including sheets and bags. requirement section.
Plastic sheeting/bags may adhere to a child’s mouth and nose A8.7.4.1 Section 4.25.10.6(2) —Corrected reference to test
procedure to 8.18.7.
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making it impossible to breathe. Since the most frequent

pattern of death is the covering of the face, the exemption is A8.7.5 Section 8.6—Explicitly states the age requirements
based on the size of the face and not whether the plastic is a bag as they pertain to abuse testing (for clarification). Also, the
or a sheet. CPSC anthropometry data for the face of a 4 to word “test” has been corrected to “toy” in the third sentence.
6-month-old indicates a minimum head height of 125 mm (4.9 A8.7.6 Section 8.18.6.1—The text has been changed to
in.) and minimum face width of 85 mm (3.3 in.). This is the correct errors in the procedure contained in the previous
basis for the exemption, which is a minor dimension of <3.9 in. version of this section.
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F963 − 11
A9.1 Jaw Entrapment teeth was not advisable because the incidents being addressed
A9.1.1 Section 4.39—There have been product recalls in involved entrapment of the child’s jaw. The teeth of the child
past years to address incidents of jaw entrapment. There have may have influenced the resulting entrapment, however, the
been additional incidents of jaw entrapment in toy products proposed requirement accounts for the presence of the teeth.
that did not rise to the level of a recall. All but one incident Also, for a very young child the dimensions of the teeth are
involved entrapment in a handle or steering wheel. When a variable, since the teeth are just erupting.
child’s jaw becomes entrapped in a product, there is potential A9.1.2.5 The task group added a depth of greater than 1.3
cm (1⁄2 inch) to both gauges to clarify that this is a three
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for damage to teeth and gums, long term orthodontic conse-
quences and impairment of normal speech development. Most dimensional test. The depth of 1.3 cm (1⁄2 inch) was chosen
cases of jaw entrapment involve children less than 18 months based on dimensions of products known to be associated with
of age. (See Fig. A9.1 and Table A9.1, and Table A9.2.) There jaw entrapment and the need for only a small portion of the
is no incident data indicating handles that are connected to the child’s jaw to be introduced into the space of the incident
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toy with a hinge and handles made from a pliable material (for products.
example, straps and ropes) pose a risk of jaw entrapment. A9.2 Folding Mechanisms and Hinges
A9.1.2 Anthropometric Data—The April 1966 study titled
A9.2.1 Section 4.13—The scope of this section has been
“Selected Facial Measurements of Children for Oxygen-Mask
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modified such that the requirement is not limited to toys
Design”18 provides very useful anthropometric data.
intended to support the weight of a child. Hinges can present
A9.1.2.1 To provide protection for children up to the age of
potential pinch hazards regardless of whether the toy is
18 months:
intended to support the weight of a child. Examples and
Width—Using the maximum estimated stomion-menton
exclusions were reinstated from the previous version of this
dimension and rounding up, indicates the gauge should be 3.8
cm (1.5 inches) in width.
Length—The 95th percentile mouth breadth for 2 to 3.5
year olds (the youngest age available) is 3.8 cm (1.5 inches)
from Childata (see Table A9.3 and Table A9.4). One inch was
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standard.
A9.3 Locking Mechanisms
A9.3.1 Sections 8.25.1 and 8.25.2—The requirements for
added resulting in the 2.5 inch length. A safety factor of 2.54 single- or double-action locking mechanisms are based on
cm (1 inch) was used for mouth breath since the anthropomet- Consumer Safety Specification F406. This requirement is
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ric data is based on a mouth at rest, and a mouth can be intended to ensure that children will not be able to unlock a
expected to stretch significantly from this position. Alternately, locking device on their own—a caregiver will be required to
unlock the locking device. The requirement for a 45-lbf test on
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the lip length dimensions above can be used to arrive at the

same estimate, rounding up, of 6.35 cm (2.5 inches). the locking mechanism is based on Consumer Safety Specifi-
A9.1.2.2 To provide protection against the youngest user cation F404. An exemption for the 45-lbf test was added for
becoming entrapped: products where the direction of the sitting load works against
Width—A gauge width of 1.9 cm (0.75 inches) was chosen the direction of collapse of the folding mechanism. The
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based on the minimum stomion menton distance for a 1 month requirement has also been modified to require that locking
old. mechanisms or other means engage automatically to protect
Length—The small jaw breadth of 1.9 cm (0.75 inches) is children who set up the product on their own. Reference to
based on the 5th percentile 2 year old mouth breadth which is safety stops has been deleted because safety stop was not
defined.
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2.54 cm (1.0 inch), so to be conservative 75 % of that was

used. A9.4 Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toys
A9.1.2.3 The task group considered adding a requirement as
suggested at the meeting that the scope only cover handles and A9.4.1 Section 4.37.2—Sports balls are exempt from the Yo
steering wheels that are able to be placed in the mouth, or Yo Ball requirements, since these requirements were not
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would be teethable. The task group considered this suggestion intended to address this type of product. The work group
and determined that this modification would not be made since agreed it will clarify the standard if we specifically exempt
incident data demonstrated that some products created jaw them.
entrapment without the need for the child to place the product
A9.5 Impaction Hazards
in his/her mouth (for example, the child’s jaw was entrapped
without the need for the child to introduce the handle end of the A9.5.1 Section 4.32.2:
push toy into the mouth). A9.5.1.1 This section has been developed to address prod-
A9.1.2.4 The task group considered adding simulated teeth ucts intended for children under 48 months of age that meet
to the gauge. The task group concluded that the addition of specific dimension criteria such that they produce a fall-on
impaction hazard. This revision is based on incident data
18
Young, J. W., “Selected facial measurements of children for oxygen-mask provided by the CPSC involving objects that are long enough
design,” AM 66-9, AM Rep., 1966, Apr: 1-11. to be pushed into the mouth, probably past the uvula in a
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F963 − 11
fall-on incident, and large enough to prevent or inhibit produce a continuous sound that will significantly contribute to
removal, even by an adult caregiver. Products less than 2.25 in. the overall sound pressure measurement. The tester will be
(the length of the small parts cylinder) in length are excluded unable to distinguish between the contributions to the overall
as are products less than 15 mm in diameter. These exemptions sound level made by the wheels versus those made by the
are based on the dimensions of products in the incident data. mechanism designed to produce sound. Therefore, a true
Flexible items are exempt because the flexible end assures they measurement of the intended continuous sound producing
will not create a fall-on impaction hazard. mechanism cannot be achieved by the methodology given in
A9.5.1.2 The impaction hazard addressed by 4.32.2 is the standard.
different from the hazard associated with preschool play figures (2) Among other factors, the levels in the standard are
addressed in 4.32.3. The preschool play figures were associated based a use distance of 25 cm (do not confuse this with the
with seven deaths by choking and one incident resulting in measurement distances specified in the standard). The distance
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serious injury. The incidents involved children under the age of from the noise producing mechanism to the ear of the child on
2 with one exception which involved a developmentally the push/pull toys discussed here would be much greater than
delayed child. In addition there were other choking incidents 25 cm. Because the relationship between sound pressure level
with the preschool play figures that did not result in significant and distance follows the inverse square law, an increase in the
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injury. distance from the sound mechanism to the ear of the child
A9.5.1.3 The distance to the undercut is based on the would reduce the sound pressure level at the ear of the child
dimensions of the small ball test fixture. dramatically. The risk of hearing loss would be reduced to such
A9.5.1.4 The age grade of the product associated with the 2 an extent as to make it insignificant.
most recent fatalities was 3+, so this requirement applies to (3) It is implausible that a child could sustain the maximum
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products intended for children under 48 months of age to speed at which the push/pull toy is tested (2 m/s). The speed
address the known incident data (ages of victims: 7 mo., 9 mo., represents a “worst-case” condition that would only be achiev-
13 mo., 13 mo., 19 mo., 22 mo., 2 yr., 2 yr., 4 yr with severe able momentarily at best. This supports regulating against
developmental delay). immediate, acute hazards such as impulsive sounds versus
A9.5.1.5 There is no force associated with this test because
the test is not intended to simulate an actual impaction incident.
Rather, it is designed to identify the size and shape of products
associated with these incidents.
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chronic hazards that are presented by exposure to long-term,
excessively loud continuous sounds.
A9.6.2 In addition, the proposed change would further
harmonization between this standard and the European toy
A9.5.1.6 The supplemental gauge is used to identify the size standard EN 71-1.
and shape of objects associated with incident data and is not
related to the size of the child for these incidents. Similarly, the A9.7 Magnets
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1.1 lb exemption is related to the weight of objects associated A9.7.1 Sections 4.38, 5.17, and 8.24—These sections were
with this type of hazard, not the strength capabilities of revised to account for the incidents (ingestions) due to mag-
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children. netic components that were small parts and to reflect the age of
the children involved with the incidents. It also introduces the
A9.6 Sound Producing Toys special use and abuse requirements to avoid magnets from
A9.6.1 Section 4.5.1.2—This section contains acoustic re- detaching from magnetic components during play.
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quirements that are being interpreted by some laboratories is

such a way to fail safe push/pull toys. The requirement needs A9.8 Toy Chests
to be changed for the following reasons: A9.8.1 Deletion of Sections 4.27, 6.2, 7.2, and 8.14—Toy
(1) The standard states in 4.5 that the requirements apply to chests are considered as children’s furniture and have their own
“toys that are designed to produce sound.” Further to this, the set of safety requirements that are already covered in Con-
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intent of the section is to apply the sound pressure level sumer Safety Specification F834.
requirements to those features of the toy designed to produce NOTE A9.1—The section numbers above refer to the previous version of
sound. During the pass-by test for push/pull toys, the contact the standard; the subsequent sections have been renumbered in the current
between the wheels of the product and the test surface will version.
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F963 − 11
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NOTE 1—
F. Nasion-Stomion Distance: The distance between the nasal root depression and the point of upper and lower lip intersection.
H: Nasion-Menton: This measurement, taken from the nasal root depression to the lower point on the chin, defines total face height.
M: Lip length, normal: A bilateral measurement (bichelion diameter) of distance between the external corners of the mouth. This measurement is taken
with all facial muscles relaxed.
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N: Lip length, extended: A bilateral measurement (bichelion diameter) of maximum distance between the corners of the mouth in a condition of
voluntary extension using muscles of facial expression.
FIG. A9.1 Facial Measurements
TABLE A9.1 Facial Measurements (in Inches)

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Age # childrenA Mean Range Mean Range Estimated Estimated Estimated

Nasion- Nasion- Nasion- Nasion- mean minimum maximum
menton menton stomion stomion stomion- stomion stomion
distanceB distance distanceC distance menton -menton -menton
distance distance distance
1 mo 20 2.36 2.28-2.72 1.58 1.46-1.69 0.78 0.82 1.03
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6 mo 20 2.77 2.56-2.95 1.61 1.54-1.73 1.16 1.02 1.22

1 yr 20 2.85 2.68-3.03 1.76 1.69-2.13 1.09 0.99 0.90
2 yr 20 3.14 3.03-3.27 1.98 1.81-2.17 1.16 1.22 1.10
3 yr 20 3.37 3.15-3.66 2.05 1.89-2.20 1.32 1.26 1.46
4 yr 20 3.41 3.19-3.58 2.08 1.57-2.20 1.33 1.62 1.38
5 yr 31 3.49 3.23-3.78 2.16 2.05-2.40 1.33 1.18 1.38
6 yr 91 3.6 3.11-3.98 2.23 2.01-2.56 1.37 1.10 1.42
A
Per the author, sex distribution was reasonably constant across age groups; no sex distinction was made in groups 1 month through 4 years.
B
From nasal root depression to the lower point on the chin (a measure of face height).
C
From nasal root depression to the intersection of the lips.
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F963 − 11
TABLE A9.2 Lip Length, in Inches
A
Age # children Lip Length, Normal Lip Length, Extended, extrapolated
base on percentage increase in lip
length for older children, or 50 %
increase over largest normal lip length
Mean Range Maximum
1 mo 20 1.08 0.98-1.26 1.89
6 mo 20 1.09 0.95-1.34 2.01
1 yr 20 1.28 1.14-1.5 2.25
2 yr 20 1.18 0.98-1.5 2.25
3 yr 20 1.38 1.22-1.57 2.35
4 yr 20 1.49 1.26-1.69 2.54
A
Per the author, sex distribution was reasonably constant across age groups; no
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sex distinction was made in groups 1 month through 4 years.
TABLE A9.3 Mouth BreadthA

Age Sex N Mean (cm) Sd 5th%ile cm (inch) 95th%ile cm (inch)
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2-3.5 Mf 75 3.30 .40 2.70 (1.0) 3.80 (1.5)
3.5-4.5 71 3.40 .40 2.80 (1.1) 3.90 (1.5)
A
From Appendix B, Childata, The Handbook of Child Measurements and Capa-
bilities Data for Design Safety Department of Trade and Industry.
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TABLE A9.4 Mouth OpeningA
Age Sex N Mean (mm) Sd Min max
3 M 49 36.0 5.39 22 47
4 M 67 37.3 5.47 22 52
5 M 56 39.9 4.02 27 47
A
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From Appendix B, Childata, The Handbook of Child Measurements and Capa-
bilities Data for Design Safety Department of Trade and Industry.
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A10.1 Certain Toys with Nearly Spherical Ends A10.1.1.2 Following are examples provided and suggested
A10.1.1 Section 4.32: interpretation as to whether these shapes fall within the scope
A10.1.1.1 The requirements of 4.32.2 do not apply to of 4.32.2 of Consumer Safety Specification F963. These
interpretations assume that the dimensions of the part and age
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tethered components as specified in the exclusions because it is

highly unlikely a child will have an impaction injury associated grade of the product are such that it falls within the scope of
with such a tethered component given the weight of the product 4.32.2.
and the length of the tether. Also, there is no incident data
associated with the tethered components being excluded.
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Requirements of 4.32.2 apply to this domed peg,

even if the very center of the head is flat or has a
through hole.
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F963 − 11
Requirements of 4.32.2 do not apply to this mallet

since it is not a nail, screw, peg, or bolt.
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The requirements of 4.32.2 do apply to this item
because the end is domed.
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Requirements of 4.32.2 do not apply to these toy
fasteners because the end is not spherical,
hemispherical or domed. The end is flat across the
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top.
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The requirements of 4.32.2 do apply. These are toy

bolts with domed tops.
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A10.2 Test for Stability of Ride-On Toys or Toy Seats mean both fore and aft stability and also sideways stability.
A10.2.1 Subsection 8.15.4—To distinguish between the load Subsection 8.15.4 states, “The center of gravity of the load for
placement for fore and aft stability and sideways stability. With all ride-ons shall be secured both 1.7 in. (43 mm) rearward of
the current test methodology, some laboratories and auditors the front-most portion of the designated seating area and 1.7 in.
have mistakenly taken the requirements in this subsection to (43 mm) forward of the rearmost portion of the designated
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F963 − 11
seating area (note: two separate tests). If there is no designated gauge(s), the toy would PASS. If the rigid internal component
seating area, the load shall be placed at the least favorable does penetrate the full depth of the gauge(s) the toy would
position that it is reasonable to anticipate that the child will FAIL if the major dimension of the rigid component is >1.2 in.
choose to sit.” (30 mm) or would PASS if the major dimension of the rigid
A10.2.1.1 As you can see, 8.15.4 only addresses fore and aft component is <1.2 in. (30 mm). The rigid internal component
stability. Additional rationale can be found in the original test requirements harmonize with the requirements of EN-71,
methods from the Voluntary Product Standard PS 72-76. In Clause 5.8.
Section 4.15.1.1 (d) it states, “The load shall be applied so that
its center of gravity lies in a true vertical 6 inches above the A10.8 Jaw Entrapment in Handles and Steering Wheels
center of the seat.” In Section 4.15.2 it states, “The load shall A10.8.1 Section 4.39— There have been product recalls in
be applied in the least favorable position on the seat for each
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past years to address incidents of jaw entrapment. There have
direction.” been additional incidents of jaw entrapment in toy products
A10.3 Abuse Testing that did not rise to the level of a recall. All but one incident
involved entrapment in a handle or steering wheel. When a
A10.3.1 Table 5—Table 5 is specifically written to address child’s jaw becomes entrapped in a product, there is potential
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the drop test, which is a subsection of impact testing. Table 5 for damage to teeth and gums, long term orthodontic conse-
is written to address the drop test. This is a technical correction quences and impairment of normal speech development. Most
to the table. cases of jaw entrapment involve children less than 18 months
of age. (See Fig. A9.1, Table A9.1, and Table A9.2.) There is no
A10.4 Test for Overload of Ride-On Toys and Toy Seats
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incident data indicating handles that are connected to the toy
A10.4.1 Section 8.26— There is no test method currently with a hinge and handles made from a pliable material (for
specified for overload therefore this test method is being example, straps and ropes) pose a risk of jaw entrapment.
proposed and it is consistent with the way independent test labs
have been performing the test. A10.8.2 Anthropometric Data—The April 1966 study titled
A10.5 Stability and Over-Load Requirements

A10.5.1 Section 4.15— Wherever “seat” appears in this
section, it has been changed to “toy seat” and a definition for
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“Selected Facial Measurements of Children for Oxygen-Mask
Design”18 provides very useful anthropometric data.
A10.8.2.1 To provide protection for children up to the age
of 18 months:
toy seats has been developed. The issue is that furniture is Width—Using the maximum estimated stomion-menton
exempt from Consumer Safety Specification F963, however, dimension and rounding up, indicates the gauge should be 3.8
cm (1.5 in.) in width.
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toys that are their counterparts are covered. It can be difficult to
discern between a toy seat and a piece of children’s furniture. Length—The 95th percentile mouth breadth for 2 to 3.5
Therefore, these changes are proposed to clarify that the scope year olds (the youngest age available) is 3.8 cm (1.5 in.) from
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of this standard only applies to toy counterparts of furniture Childata (see Table A9.3 and Table A9.4). One inch was added
and juvenile products. resulting in the 2.5 in. length. A safety factor of 2.54 cm (1 in.)
was used for mouth breath since the anthropometric data is
A10.6 Plastic Film based on a mouth at rest, and a mouth can be expected to
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A10.6.1 Section 4.12— This section applies to “flexible stretch significantly from this position. Alternately, the lip
plastic film bags and flexible plastic sheets used as packaging length dimensions above can be used to arrive at the same
materials for shelf packages or used with toys.” The title refers estimate, rounding up, of 6.35 cm (2.5 in.).
to packaging film but the requirement refers to plastic film used A10.8.2.2 To provide protection against the youngest user
becoming entrapped:
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with toys. The wording was changed to clarify the scope of the
requirement. Also deleted part of the test method section, Width—A gauge width of 1.9 cm (0.75 in.) was chosen
which is already covered by the requirement section. based on the minimum stomion menton distance for a 1 month
old.
A10.7 Teethers and Teething Toys, Rattles, and Squeeze Length—The small jaw breadth of 1.9 cm (0.75 in.) is
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Toys based on the 5th percentile 2 year old mouth breadth which is
A10.7.1 Sections 4.22, 4.23, and 4.24—The change to 2.54 cm (1.0 in.), so to be conservative 75 % of that was used.
exempt soft-filled (stuffed) toys from the rattles, squeeze toys A10.8.2.3 The task group considered adding a requirement
and teethers sections is being made to be consistent with as suggested at the meeting that the scope only cover handles
exemptions found in: 16 CFR 1510, Rattles; EN-71, Clause and steering wheels that are able to be placed in the mouth, or
5.8, Shape and Size of Certain Toys; and with Consumer Safety would be teethable. The task group considered this suggestion
Specification F963, Section 4.32, Certain Toys with Nearly and determined that this modification would not be made since
Spherical Ends. However, if a stuffed toy contains an internal incident data demonstrated that some products created jaw
rigid component (rigid is defined in Consumer Safety Specifi- entrapment without the need for the child to place the product
cation F963 as material with a hardness >70 Shore A scale in his/her mouth (for example, the child’s jaw was entrapped
durometer) then the gauges would be applied. If the rigid without the need for the child to introduce the handle end of the
internal component does not penetrate the full depth of the push toy into the mouth).
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F963 − 11
A10.8.2.4 The task group considered adding simulated teeth A10.10.1.7 As in EN 71, solubility testing is called for in
to the gauge. The task group concluded that the addition of the proposed ASTM standard. However, note that as described
teeth was not advisable because the incidents being addressed in 8.3.6, an alternative approach may be used if validated per
involved entrapment of the child’s jaw. The teeth of the child specified requirements.
may have influenced the resulting entrapment, however, the A10.10.1.8 Component parts and materials may be sepa-
proposed requirement accounts for the presence of the teeth. rately tested and certified.
Also, for a very young child the dimensions of the teeth are
variable, since the teeth are just erupting. A10.11 Yo Yo Elastic Tether Toys
A10.8.2.5 The requirement was modified to clarify the A10.11.1 Sections 4.37 and 8.23—The task group con-
gauges must pass completely through the opening. The gauge cluded that the mass on the end of the tether was significant in
depth was modified from the original requirement of greater
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creating the strangulation potential of a yo yo elastic tether toy.
than 1⁄2 in. to the present requirement of 1 in. When passing the
The risk of strangulation appears much lower for products with
gauge through the opening, a depth must be specified to assure
very light ends compared to the yo-yo type balls as seen on the
the test results are consistent.
market in 2003 with end weights of 65 to 85 g (0.14 to 0.19 lb).
The lightweight end results in very slow rotational speed when
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A10.9 Strings and Lines for Flying Devices
swung overhead and there is much less recoil capacity of the
A10.9.1 Subsection 4.14.4—EN 71-1 (Clause 4.13) and ISO
tether due to significantly lower loading during rotation.
8124-1 (Clause 4.11.7) both use “resistance” instead of “resis-
Additionally, the lightweight “sticky hand” variety of yo-yo
tivity.” Resistance = resistivity × length/area, therefore, this
elastic tether toy had market presence, prior to 2003, with no
change is being made for consistency. Also, the units have been
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reports of near-miss strangulation or other similar incident. The
corrected to ohms per centimetre (Ω/cm).
mass was determined by weighing product known to be
A10.10 Heavy Elements associated with wrapping around the neck incidents. Yo yo
elastic tether toy samples evaluated weighed 0.10 kg (0.2 lb),
A10.10.1 Subsections 4.3.5 and 8.3:
A10.10.1.1 The soluble approach for determination of
heavy elements in toys and toy components has been selected
over total element limits as this has been demonstrated to be
more closely correlated with the amount of element which is
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0.07 kg (0.15 lb), and 0.07 kg (0.15 lb). The weight of four
“sticky hand” variety of yo-yo elastic tether toys (hand portion
only) was 0.005 kg (0.01 lb) 0.008 kg (0.02 lb), 0.009 kg (0.02
lb) and 0.012 kg (0.03 lb). The appropriate value for the mass
at the end of the tether was chosen to be between these values,
bioavailable, and therefore with risk of toxicity.These require-
0.02 kg (0.04 lb).
ments (and test methods) and this rationale have been based on
requirements from European toy safety requirements found in A10.11.1.1 The cord length is based on two times the neck
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EN 71-3 (and ISO 8124-3). circumference of a 5th-percentile 3-year-old from Childata, or
A10.10.1.2 The scope is intended to indicate an approach to 2 × 24.0 cm = 48 cm (18.9 in.). The age of 36 months and over
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the decision of what toys, or toy components are excluded from was chosen based on the age of children involved in the
the standard because of characteristics that render them un- incident data.
likely to present a risk of injury by the ingestion of materials A10.11.1.2 The rotational speed of 80 RPM was determined
containing the toxic elements. by testing adults and determining the maximum RPM they can
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A10.10.1.3 Toys and toy components that are accessible to achieve rotating a product above their heads. The range of adult
the child during play are subject to these requirements unless speed was 80 – 108 RPM, the average was 90 RPM and the
otherwise indicated. Some materials such as metal, glass, and standard deviation was 7 based on a sample size of 14. This
ceramic are exempted if they are not small parts. was reduced to 80 RPM as an estimate for the speed children
36 months and over but under 72 months of age can achieve.
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A10.10.1.4 Unless included in a toy, modeling clays, which

are covered in the EN 71-3 requirements for heavy metals are The incident data indicated that children 36 months and over
not covered in these heavy metals requirements because they but under 72 months of age are most often involved in yo yo
are already exempt from Consumer Safety Specification F963 elastic tether toy incidents.
as indicated in 1.4 and subject to the federal requirements of A10.11.1.3 The use of a cam with a variable speed drill
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LHAMA. assists in spinning the toy in the air. Specification of a cam

A10.10.1.5 The list of excluded materials is based on the length is required in order to achieve consistent results across
regulatory exclusions provided by the U.S. Consumer Product laboratories, given that the length affects the load on the tether
Safety Commission (CPSC), specified at 16 CFR 1500.91, in during rotation. The objective was to employ as short a length
implementation of the requirements for lead and lead paint as possible, but one that would facilitate clamping and rotation
under Section 101 of the Consumer Product Safety Improve- of the toy. A 3 cm (1.18 in.) cam length was identified as one
ment Act (CPSIA) of 2008. While EN 71-3 includes test that adequately met both objectives.
methods for Paper and paperboard and Textiles (natural and
A10.12 Miscellaneous
synthetic), given the exemption for these products test methods
for them have not been included here. A10.12.1 Sections 1.4 and 3—For clarification, juvenile
A10.10.1.6 Sections 8.3.2 – 8.3.6 provide a test procedure products, constant air inflatables, powered and no-powered
and manner of interpretation of results for solubility testing. scooters have been added to the list of products which are not
68
F963 − 11
covered by the toy standard. Definitions for juvenile products
and constant air inflatables have been added to the terminology
section.
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.
This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
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make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.
This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the ASTM website (www.astm.org/
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COPYRIGHT/).
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What is the purpose of this consumer safety specification?

What is the purpose of this consumer safety specification?

What types of products are excluded from this specification?

What types of products are excluded from this specification?

Designation: F963 − 11 An American National Standard

Standard Consumer Safety Specification for

primarily of play value

Accessible Edges 4.7

Folding Mechanisms and Hinges 4.13

Simulated Protective Devices 4.19

Battery-Operated Toys 4.25

Toy Gun Marking 4.30

15 CFR 1150 Marking of Toys, Look-Alike and Imitation

21 CFR 700-740 Requirements for Specific Cosmetic Prod-

16 CFR 1500.18 Banned toys and other banned articles

ISO 3746:1995 Acoustics—Determination of Sound Power

intended to bear the mass of a child and used as an instrument

scraping with a sharp blade as defined under 16 CFR 1303, et

3.1.48 materials intended to leave a trace—graphite mate-

using standardized A-weighting and fast detector response

the expected life of the product or devices it is intended to

tions accompanying the toy, that have been established by

3.1.61 protective cap or cover—a component that is at-

3.1.79 teether—toy designed for oral use and intended

size, mass, function, or other characteristics, cannot be sucked, degradation.

likely to be sucked, mouthed or ingested: (1) All toy parts intended to be

TABLE 1 Maximum Soluble Migrated Element in ppm (mg/kg) for

the child; (2) child-actuated sounds such as those produced by

packaging graphics, instructions or other advertising, evaluated

being tested in accordance with the appropriate procedures described in

FIG. 8 Principle of Sharp Edge Test

FIG. 9 Sharp Point Tester

including beads or other attachments on the ends of cords/

clearance to provide protection for the fingers, hands, and toes

FIG. 10 Head Probe for Cords and Elastics

be tested not only with the steering wheels in a forward

– 8.10. The different pinch clearance requirements listed in

FIG. 13 Clearance for Chain Links

specification states that a test sample of nipples, drawn from a

when fired into a solid object, in accordance with the test

vehicular toy along a track or other surface, or when the

shall be unable to discharge potentially hazardous improvised

between any two accessible electrical points is 24 V nominal.

er’s markings. appearance, shape, or configuration, or combination thereof, of

(1) Exclusion—The requirement of 4.32.1 does not apply to 4.34 Balls:

or greater. 4.35 Pompoms—These requirements are intended to address

FIG. 17 Examples of Hemispherical and Domed Ends

FIG. 19 Examples of Preschool Play Figures

mm). These requirements apply before and after testing in

FIG. 23 Rib Through Cup Center

FIG. 24 Scalloped Edge Pattern

for safety labeling described in 5.17. in terms of height or weight limitations.

1⁄16 in. (1.6 mm). Recognizing space constraints, it is

reasonably foreseeable abuse when tested in accordance with

distance at least equal to the space occupied by the first letter

" WARNING: 5.14 Electric Toys—Refer to 16 CFR 1505.3 for required

Keep uninflated balloons from children.

5.11.6 Combination of Labeling Statements—The labels of

with the safety labeling instructions for use or assembly or age