New EU Toy Safety Directive Update: Cobalt Use Now More Strictly Regulated
A Critical Change Affecting the Toy Industry
The European Commission has introduced an important amendment to Directive 2009/48/EC on the Safety of Toys. This new Commission Directive imposes specific restrictions on the use of cobalt, a substance classified as carcinogenic and toxic to reproduction. The amendment aims to further protect children’s health and reduce potential chemical exposure in consumer products.
What Is Cobalt and Why Is It Being Regulated?
Cobalt can be present in toys in metallic form or as cobalt salts (e.g., cobalt sulfate, cobalt dinitrate). According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP):
✅ Carcinogen (Category 1B)
✅ Mutagen (Category 2)
✅ Toxic to Reproduction (Category 1B)
This classification makes cobalt subject to strict use restrictions in toys.
Scientific Basis: SCHEER Report
The Scientific Committee on Health, Environmental and Emerging Risks (SCHEER) was commissioned by the European Commission to evaluate the potential risks of cobalt in toys. Their opinion is based on six usage scenarios:
1. Electric-conducting metal components (e.g., model train tracks)
Inhalation and dermal exposure is negligible. Use is considered safe.
2. Stainless steel toy components
Acceptable under migration limit values. Limited use may be permitted.
3. Children’s make-up products
Lack of sufficient data. No safe use determined.
4. 3D pens and 3D printing materials
High risk of inhalation. Use of cobalt-containing materials not recommended.
5. Paints, inks, textiles, and chalk toys
Inhalation risk, especially in powdered forms. Cobalt-free pigments should be used.
6. Batteries (especially button cells)
Risk of ingestion exists. Must not be accessible to children.
In Which Cases Will Cobalt Be Allowed in Toys?
According to the new Directive, cobalt may be used only in the following specific cases:
Application Area | Explanation |
|---|---|
Stainless steel toy parts | As a nickel impurity, in very low concentrations |
Electric-conductive parts | Such as model train rails |
Neodymium magnets | Only if not ingestible or inhalable |
⚠️ Use of cobalt in any other form or application in toys remains prohibited.
⏳ Implementation Timeline
📅 6 months after publication: EU Member States must transpose the directive into national law.
📅 7 months after publication: The new rules become fully enforceable.
You can access the AB Draft Regulation here.
What Does Doruksistem Offer?
DORUKSISTEM supports manufacturers, importers, and e-commerce platforms in aligning with evolving regulatory requirements through:
🔍 Cobalt risk and exposure assessments
📄 Migration limit evaluation and product testing
🧾 Compliance-ready labeling and certification guidance
📊 Regulation-aligned documentation and traceability systems
🎯 DORUKSISTEM helps companies achieve transparent, safe, and EU-compliant operations in the toy industry.
For more detailed information, please contact us. Let us be your authorized representative, ensuring that your products comply with both the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) and all other relevant regulations through our expert team and our EU company, DorukWell GmbH.