EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018 includes changes to projectile requirements. In this issue of Toy Updates we would like to remind you of some of those changes.
Our experts look at the following frequently asked questions:
- How does EN 71-1 define a projectile?
- What is a leading parts assessment?
- Which small range projectiles are excluded?
How Does En 71-1 Define a Projectile?
Projectiles are defined as: “Objects intended to be launched, thrown or released into free flight or trajectory in the air”. In the 2018 version “thrown or released” has been added to the projectile definition. It always was the intention to include objects that are thrown as projectiles. This has now been clarified to make it clear that objects intended to be thrown such as balls, darts, flying disks and boomerangs need to comply with the projectile requirements too.
What Is a Leading Parts Assessment?
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The 2018 version of EN 71-1 introduces the term and requirements for “leading parts” as the previous version’s requirements for tip radius were no longer sufficient. Projectiles are no longer only classical shaped darts, but may come in a variety of different forms and shapes.
The safety concern this aims to address is the risk of injury to a child from being hit by a thrown or launched projectile. This part is now defined as the “leading part” which is any area of the projectile or flying toy (e.g. tips, edges or protrusions) which would be expected to make contact with the eyeball in the event of launching towards the eye”. The safety assessment is now done by using a 4mm diameter gauge on any potential rigid contact area.
Which Small Range Projectiles Are Excluded?
Some toys are intended to travel just a very short distance through air. Typically, they are found in play sets where an initial action triggers the release of an object or figurine that travels a short distance through air. Those toys formally fall under the projectile definition and would need to be tested according to the projectile requirements. Projectiles that have a range of less than 300 mm are excluded from the projectile requirements as they are not regarded to pose a risk of injury.
Stephanie Meyer-Pionchon
Global Marketing Manager
t: +49 (0)40 30101 834
www.sgs.com/toys