The modern market offers a vast array of children's toys from numerous global and local brands. However, besides products with transparent origins, many unverified goods circulate, posing potential safety hazards. This situation complicates the work of functional units and makes it difficult for consumers to identify low-quality items.

Consequently, the Ministry of Science and Technology issued the certification for children's toys in compliance with QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN to regulate these products effectively.

Below, the ISSQ Quality Institute provides an overview of the Certification of Children's Toys according to QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN.

Overview of QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN Certification

To protect children's health and manage the quality of toys produced, imported, or sold in the market, the Ministry of Science and Technology issued Circular No. 09/2019/TT on September 30, 2019 (accompanying the "National Technical Regulation on Safety of Children's Toys" - QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN). This standard replaced QCVN 3:2009.

What is it?

Certification according to QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN involves testing, evaluating, and verifying that the quality of products, services, goods, processes, and environments aligns with the corresponding national technical regulations.

Why is it necessary?

This certification is an essential step for organizations, businesses, and individuals manufacturing or distributing toys before releasing products to the market. It is a mandatory requirement for goods circulating in Vietnam.

Applicable Subjects:

• Organizations and individuals manufacturing, importing, distributing, or retailing children's toys.

• State management agencies.

• Other relevant organizations and individuals.

Certification Methods

As per the regulation, conformity certification is carried out via two primary methods:

• Method 5: Testing of typical samples and evaluation of the production process. The certificate and seal are valid for 3 years. Compliance is monitored annually through sample testing at the production site or in the market, combined with production process assessments.
• Method 7: Testing of representative samples and evaluation of a specific lot of goods. Conclusions are based on test results from samples taken using statistical probability methods for each specific batch. This method does not require ongoing production monitoring.

Technical Requirements and Test Methods

1. Mechanical and Physical Safety

Requirements follow TCVN 6238 – 1:2017 (ISO 8124 – 1:2014) regarding mechanical and physical properties.

2. Flammability Safety

Requirements follow TCVN 6238 – 2:2017 (ISO 8124 – 2:2014) regarding flammability.

3. Chemical Safety

• Migration of Toxic Elements: Limits follow TCVN 6238 – 3:2011 (ISO 8124 – 3:2010).

• Toxic Organic Compounds:

  • Liquids in toys: Accessible liquids must have a pH between 3.0 and 10.0 (excludes ink in writing instruments).

  • Formaldehyde (for children under 3): Accessible textile parts ($\le$ 30 mg/kg), paper parts ($\le$ 30 mg/kg), and resin-bonded wood parts ($\le$ 80 mg/kg).

  • Phthalates: Content of DEHP, DBP, or BBP must not exceed 0.1% by mass. For toys intended to be placed in the mouth, DINP, DIDP, or DNOP must also not exceed 0.1%.

  • Aromatic Amines: Content must not exceed specified limits, including derivatives from azo dyes.

Benefits of QCVN 3:2019/BKHCN Certification

• Quality Control: Minimizes risks and costs by applying correct technical standards.

• Bidding Advantage: Increases the ability to win contracts and tenders.

• Brand Reputation: Builds consumer trust and enhances product prestige.

• Market Expansion: Boosts competitive advantage and facilitates wider distribution.

• Legal Compliance: Ensures products meet all legal requirements for the Vietnamese market.

The ISSQ Quality Institute is ready to partner with your company during this period of integration and development.

Contact Information:

• Hotline: 0981851111

• Email: vienchatluong@issq.org.vn | tcvn@issq.org.vn

Published Date: October 25, 2022