News Article
Flam Regulations Changes 2025: Implications for Children's Products
Whilst the full amendment to the UK Flammability Regulations still looks to be some way off, the changes announced that will take effect from 30th October 2025 are fast approaching.
The most significant of these changes is the removal of certain baby and children's products from the regulations. This decision comes after a consensus based on numerous responses to the 2024 consultation. The purpose of this amendment is to reduce the risk of babies and very young children being exposed to chemical flame retardants, as these products are considered to have a low risk of coming into contact with ignition sources.
Whilst exempt from the UK Flammability Regulations, these products still need to meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations, so some testing is still required. Typically, European Standards for children's products specify BS EN 71-2, Safety of toys - Part 2: Flammability, or BS EN 1103 Textiles - Fabrics for apparel - Detailed procedure to determine the burning behaviour. In addition, the European standard for Cot Mattresses specifies BS EN 597-1, which is a cigarette test on the final item.
The other changes announced are the removal of the requirement for manufacturers to attach a relevant display label to new products and an extension to the time limit for enforcement authorities to begin legal proceedings in cases of non-compliance, from six to twelve months.
