How Toy Testing Labs Assess Magnetic Force in Magnetic Toys?
Magnetic toys are among the most fascinating and educational products on the market. From building blocks to puzzle games, magnets offer children the joy of discovery and creativity. However, their very appeal—strong, hidden magnetic forces—can also pose serious safety risks. This is why every Toy Testing Lab plays a critical role in assessing magnetic force to ensure that these toys meet international safety standards before reaching the hands of young users.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how professional toy testing lab assess magnetic force, why it's essential, and the standards involved in safeguarding children’s health.
Why Is Magnetic Force Testing Important in Toys?
Magnetic components, especially small and strong rare-earth magnets like neodymium, can be incredibly dangerous if swallowed. If more than one magnet is ingested, they can attract each other across intestinal walls, causing blockages, perforations, or life-threatening complications.
In response to growing incidents worldwide, regulatory authorities have made magnet strength testing mandatory for many types of toys. This is where accredited toy testing labs come in—using specialized tools and scientific protocols to measure and evaluate magnet safety.
What Types of Magnetic Toys Require Testing?
Not all magnetic toys are subject to the same regulations, but these commonly require lab testing:
Magnetic construction sets (e.g., magnetic blocks, rods)
Puzzle toys with internal magnets
Magnetic dress-up dolls
Science kits with magnets
Decorative magnetic pieces used in playsets
If a toy includes accessible magnets, or if magnets could become loose during regular use or abuse, they must undergo force assessment at a certified toy testing lab.
Key Safety Standards for Magnetic Toys
When testing magnetic force, toy testing labs typically follow specific global safety standards:
EN 71-1 (Europe) – Safety of Toys Part 1: Mechanical and Physical Properties
ASTM F963 (USA) – Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety
ISO 8124-1 (International) – Mechanical and physical properties standard for toys
GCC Standardization (Gulf countries) – Based on ISO and EN standards
All of these standards include strict sections on magnet testing requirements, such as:
Flux index limit: The magnetic flux index must not exceed 50 kG²mm² (per EN 71-1 and ASTM F963).
Durability tests: To check if magnets detach during impact or tension.
Age grading: Toys intended for children under 14 must be assessed with heightened caution.
Step-by-Step: How Toy Testing Labs Assess Magnetic Force
Let’s break down how a toy testing lab tests a magnetic toy for compliance:
1. Initial Visual Inspection
First, the toy is inspected for visible magnets or components that may house magnetic parts. If magnets are not visible, testers may still suspect internal magnets and proceed with destructive testing.
2. Magnet Accessibility Check
If the magnet is accessible or becomes accessible during play, it is considered a hazardous magnet and will be evaluated accordingly.
3. Magnetic Flux Index Measurement
This is the core of the test. The lab uses a Gauss meter and flux index jig to measure the magnetic strength. Here’s how:
The magnet is placed in a calibrated test fixture.
The Gauss meter captures the flux density (B) and area (A).
The flux index is calculated using:
Flux Index = B² × A, where:B = magnetic flux density in kilogauss
A = area in mm²
If the result exceeds 50 kG²mm², the magnet is considered too powerful and unsafe for children.
4. Durability and Abuse Testing
Next, the toy is subjected to:
Impact testing
Drop testing
Torque and tension tests
These simulations reveal whether magnets detach under stress, which could increase ingestion risk.
5. Swallowability Test
If a magnet becomes loose, labs conduct a small parts test using a Small Parts Cylinder. If the magnet fits inside, it is considered a choking hazard for children under 3.
6. Report Generation
After testing, the lab compiles a detailed report outlining:
Test method and standard
Magnetic flux measurement results
Durability observations
Conclusion on compliance or failure
This report becomes a mandatory document for toy certification and market access.
What Happens If a Toy Fails Magnetic Force Testing?
If a toy fails the magnetic flux index test or any durability-related assessment, the manufacturer must:
Redesign the product to reduce magnetic strength or improve magnet containment.
Use larger magnets that cannot be swallowed.
Eliminate unnecessary magnetic features.
The product must be retested before submission for approval or market distribution.
Choosing the Right Toy Testing Lab for Magnetic Toys
Not all labs are created equal. When choosing a Toy Testing Lab, ensure that it:
Is ISO 17025 accredited for toy testing
Has experience in EN 71, ASTM F963, and ISO 8124 compliance
Uses calibrated equipment for flux index measurement
Offers certification support for UAE, EU, GCC, and international markets
Provides quick turnaround times and clear reports
Collaborating with a trusted lab ensures your product gets certified faster and safely enters the market without legal setbacks.
Final Thoughts
As the popularity of magnetic toys continues to grow, so does the need for stringent safety checks. Accredited toy testing labs play a vital role in ensuring that children enjoy these toys without the risk of injury. By assessing magnetic force through international standards, these labs help manufacturers stay compliant and protect the end user—our children.
Whether you're a toy brand, distributor, or startup, choosing a reliable toy testing lab is your best investment in safety, compliance, and market reputation.
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