[Assessment of the safety of toys with special reference to electromagnetic safety in view of binding regulations: a pilot study]

Abstract

Background: The authors present the result of pilot measurements of electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the surrounding of some toys available on the Polish market. The measurements were compared with safety standards set in Poland to ensure occupational safety and hygiene regarding appliances producing EMF and the environmental protection.

Materials and methods: EMF intensity was measured in the surrounding of six walkie-talkie sets (frequencies: 49.2 MHz; 50 MHz, and 446 MHz) and 8 radio-controlled (RC) toys (frequencies: 27 MHz; 44.5MHz, and 49 MHz). Constant EMF was measured in the surrounding of 4 mechanical toys with battery powered wire and wireless steering.

Results: Walkie-talkie type toys and remote controlled toys are the source of EMF with intensity values ranging from 1 to 21.5 V/m. EMF values over 0.01 mT were not found in the surrounding of mechanical toys.

Conclusions: Although EMF values in the surrounding of toys meet the requirements defined by CE labeling, several toys produce in its surrounding EMF values exceeding maximum allowable intensities according to Polish environmental regulations and corresponding with protective zones defined by hygiene norms set to protect persons working with EMF-producing devices. The magnitude of exposure caused by aforesaid toys depends on both the kind of toys and the age of children playing with them.