How to get an ASTM F963 Test Report?

Introduction to the ASTM F963 Standard

ASTM F963 is a U.S. toy testing standard developed under the auspices of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The latest version is astm f963-17, which became a mandatory standard on September 1, 2017.

Clause [4.3.6.3](4.3.6.3) of ASTM F963-16/17 is a mandatory third-party testing item specified in the U.S. Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). That is, toys containing cosmetics, liquids, pastes, creams, gels, powders, and poULtry feather products must undergo MICrobial limit testing at a third-party laboratory accREDited by the U.S. CPSC before a CPC can be issued.

ASTM F963 is an important U.S. toy safety standard with significant international influence. It is a voluntary, non-mandatory standard. Despite being voluntary, toys that do not comply with ASTM F963 cannot enter the U.S. market in commercial practice.

Instructions for Use of ASTM F963

• Definitions and Descriptions

Information and instructions related to the safe use and/or assembly of toys, whether printed on packaging or in manuals, must be legible and understandable for the age group for which they are intended (including children using the toys, as applicable). All instructions must be written in English at a minimum.

• Toy Chests

Instructions for proper assembly and maintenance must detail the correct fitting methods of components, the hazards that may occur if the lid support mechanism is not installed, and how to verify that the support mechanism is functioning properly.

Manufacturer Markings for ASTM F963

The main components of a toy or its packaging must be marked with the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor. For toys sold in bulk, such as pebbles or marbles, only the container requires marking. All markings must be legible, placed in a location easily visible to consumers, and durable under normal use conditions. Toys may be marked with a code for manufacturers to identify model variations, except for toys with numerous loose parts, whose codes may be marked on the container.

Mechanical and Physical Safety Requirements for Toys Under ASTM F963

The U.S. mechanical and physical performance requirements for toys mainly reference two technical specifications: ASTM F963-03 and the requirements stipulated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The requirements issued by the CPSC are enforced as U.S. regulations. If the CPSC finds that a toy has a dangerous defect or poses a potential hazard to children, it will require retailers or suppliers to recall the toy.

ASTM F963-03 is a voluntary standard, a harmonized standard formulated to support the regulations issued by the CPSC, enabling manufacturers to effectively control the safety and quality of toys.

Required Documents for Processing an ASTM F963 Toy Test Report

• Complete and submit a test application form to JJR LAB, and inform the company whether TIC verification is required (pricing will vary if needed; TIC is a new regulation of Amazon).

• Provide test samples.

• Arrange payment.

• JJR LAB will conduct the testing and issue a draft report for customer confirmation.

• Upon confirmation of accuracy, a formal test report will be issued.

ASTM F963 is mandated under U.S. federal regulations. Generally, the standard fully incorporates the relevant technical requirements of 16 CFR under the CPSC. Manufacturers can ensure product compliance with ASTM F963 to substantially meet the relevant technical requirements of 16 CFR. To guarantee compliance with 16 CFR, toy manufacturers must monitor the requirements and updates of 16 CFR in a timely manner to ensure their products conform to ASTM F963.