SG 028/26
Updated EN 71‑1:2026 introduces major revisions, new toy requirements and clearer guidance for compliance.
The 2026 revision of EN 71‑1 has been published as part of the ongoing updates driven by the EU’s Standardisation Request, which sets the agreed work program for toy safety standards between the European Commission and CEN/CENELEC.
EN 71-1 sets requirements for the mechanical and physical properties of toys, and its 2026 amendment was published in January 2026.
There are major changes to the previous version EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018, with a full revision of the standard, including revised requirements for ride-on toys and new requirements for food-imitating toys. Many sections have been revised to clarify interpretation and testing issues.
Please find below an overview of the most important changes:
| Topic | Change |
| Definitions | Many definitions have been clarified |
| Expanding materials | The requirements have been revised |
| Trampolines | Exemptions for trampolines have been added |
| Enclosures | Clarification of ventilation openings |
| Ride-on toys | Major revision of the whole section, including requirements for balance bikes and numerous new and revised test methods, such as handlebar impact test, brake performance, strength of scooter steering tubes, security of handlebar stems, strength of stabilizers and security of seat posts. |
| Projectiles | Clarifications and more detailed guidance on how to perform tests |
| Food-imitating toys | Adding new requirements for these toys based on a two-step approach:
|
| Small parts | Sand is added as an exemption from small parts |
| Warning | Requirements for the positioning of the word ‘warning’ have been aligned with the directive |
| Rationale | Many sections have been revised for clarification |
After harmonization and publication in the Official Journal of the EU, the standard can be used to show compliance with the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Currently, it is not known when the new EN 71-1:2026 will be harmonized and when the transitional period will end.
Please note SGS keeps you up to date with changes of EN 71-serie standards due to the Standardization Request: see SG 016/25
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Protect children and your brand – partner with us to navigate the complex EU Toy Safety Directive. Contact us to learn more, or visit our website. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.
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