2024 U.S. Toy Safety Standard Update: Comprehensive Interpretation of ASTM F963-23

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has approved the updated ASTM F963-23 toy safety standard, marking new requirements for childrens toy safety that will take effect from April 20, 2024. This move means toy manufacturers and importers must quickly adapt to comply with the new regulations. Below is an in-depth analysis of the main technical revisions in ASTM F963-23 and how businesses can prepare for these changes.

Changes in Acoustic Requirements:ASTM F963-23 introduces stricter acoustic standards to limit the maximum sound levels emitted by toys. This means toy manufacturers need to reassess their products acoustic designs to ensure compliance with the prescribed noise limits.
Adjustments to Battery Accessibility:The new standard strengthens safety requirements for batteries in toys. Manufacturers must ensure toy designs prevent children from accessing batteries, particularly small batteries that may pose ingestion or other safety risks.
New Regulations for Expandable Materials:For toys using expandable materials, ASTM F963-23 sets stricter testing and labeling requirements. Manufacturers must ensure these materials do not expand to dangerous levels if ingested.
Enhanced Safety for Projectile Toys:The updated standard imposes higher requirements on the design and performance of projectile toys to reduce injury risks from misuse or design flaws.
Alignment with Federal Regulations:ASTM F963-23 maintains consistency with existing federal regulations and CPSC requirements regarding phthalates, toy substrate exemptions, and tracking labels, ensuring unified industry standards.

Strengthen R&D and Design Adjustments:Manufacturers should enhance product development efforts, particularly in acoustic design, battery safety, and the use of expandable materials. Every design detail must comply with the new standard.
Conduct Rigorous Product Testing:Companies must rigorously test existing and newly developed products to ensure compliance with the new ASTM F963-23 standard. Collaboration with certification bodies may be necessary to ensure testing accuracy and authority.
Update Compliance Documents and Labels:Update all compliance documentation and product labels as required by the new standard. This includes ensuring tracking labels are accurate and easily identifiable.
Train Employees and Partners:Provide training for internal teams and supply chain partners to ensure they understand and correctly implement the new standard requirements.
Monitor Regulatory Changes:Maintain ongoing awareness of toy safety standards and promptly respond to any further changes or revisions.