What began with simple mechanical tests has evolved into a complex testing process based on international standards. The goal has remained the same for 70 years: to ensure the best possible protection for children at play.
TÜV Rheinland employs approximately 500 toy testers worldwide, who examine tens of thousands of toys each year.
“How does the toy smell, how does it feel, how loud is it - all this gives us information about its safety and quality,” said Sebastian Rösch, Laboratory Manager of TÜV Rheinland's Nuremberg toy testing lab where it all started.
The first test object tested by TÜV Rheinland in 1955 was a sand play set.
As the use of noise-generating electronic components began influencing toy design, standardization bodies had to respond accordingly. They established and continually refined limits for noise-generating toys.
In the 1970s, systematic testing procedures for physical and mechanical properties were introduced, along with the first standards (DIN 66070-1/-2). The 1980s brought new standards for electric toys with DIN 57700-210, while in the 1990s, the focus was on chemical safety and the harmonization of European standards. In the 2000s, TÜV Rheinland responded to the increasing prevalence of electronic and battery-operated toys with adapted testing methods - including safety assessments for swallowable magnets, which were regulated in EN 71-1 in 2009.
Today, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are now also dominating toys. Smart toys are connected to the internet and could potentially be gateways for cyber criminals. The EU has already responded by developing corresponding regulations. On 1 August 2025, new security requirements under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) will come into effect, applicable to all internet-enabled products. These regulations aim to significantly enhance the protection level of such devices.
In recent years, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals”, have garnered increased attention. With a digital product passport for toys and the toy safety regulations adopted in April 2025, the EU wants to ensure compliance with these requirements. TÜV Rheinland offers companies the opportunity to safeguard their products and supply chains accordingly, promoting a more environmentally friendly and sustainable production.
The CE mark (conformité européenne) is mandatory for all products sold within the EU. With the CE mark, a manufacturer declares that their product meets all EU-wide requirements for safety, health protection and environmental protection. Those seeking higher standards than the legal minimum - particularly in chemical testing - can look for the "Tested Safety" (GS) mark or TÜV Rheinland's "Toyproof" seal. The “Excellent Play Value” certification from TÜV Rheinland shows the extent to which a toy promotes a child's development in educational and psychological terms. Recognized experts assess educational and developmental aspects, for example.