SGS : Training on European Toy Standards in Saudi Arabia

In November 2017, SGS was invited by the Gulf State Cooperation Council (GCC) Standardization Organization (GSO) to present a training course on European toy standards to representatives of the Saudi Standards, Meteorology and Quality Organization (SASO). Taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the course focused primarily on toy standards EN 71-series and EN 62115, as well as the European Toy Directive 2009/48/EC. Taking place over two-days, the course was conducted by SGS toy experts Dr. Hing Wo Tsang and Mrs. Sanda Stefanovic MSc.

The GCC incorporates the Gulf states of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. Beginning in 2007 with the first GCC toy regulation, it has implemented toy regulations that are similar to EU Toy Directive 2009/48/EC. These were updated in 2013 with a second edition - BD-131704-01. Read the full text of the regulation >

For stakeholders looking to access markets in GCC Member States, European toy safety standards can be used to show compliance to BD-131704-01.

GCC regulations require toys destined for Member States to display the GCC conformity mark (min. size 5 mm).

In addition, the Declaration of Conformity, mandatory warnings and labelling must be in the Arabic language, and additional images and figures that profane the Islamic tradition are strictly forbidden.

Stakeholders should be aware that GCC rules make traceability an assured requirement and they are currently implementing a new registration system.

Manufacturers of products that require GC-Type Examination Certificate must obtain this from an accredited Notified Body. The Certificate will be issued following an examining of the technical design of the product and verification that the product meets the requirements of the applicable Gulf States' technical regulation.

GC-Type Examination Certification can be obtained from the following SGS GCC Toy Notified Bodies:

• SGS Gulf Limited in Dubai is appointed by GSO as GCC Notified Body number 003
• SGS Hong Kong Ltd and SGS Shenzhen Ltd are appointed by GSO as GCC Notified Body number 008

Working together, the SGS laboratories in Dubai, Hong Kong and Shenzhen offer a one-stop solution for compliance with GCC regulations. They provide testing services, label review and liaison services with the GCC, helping smooth the way for access to Gulf State markets.

SGS Toy Testing Services

SGS offers a wide range of services to help manufacturers comply with international toy safety standards. We can provide training, safety/risk assessment, technical documentation check, labelling review, testing according to harmonized standards, SVHC screening, inspections and audits. We have the world's largest global network of toy experts and testing facilities, including three GCC Notified Body laboratories and three EU Notified Bodies. Learn more about SGS Toy Testing Services >

For further information, please contact:

Ms Sanda Stefanovic
Senior Toy Expert
SGS Netherlands BV
t: +31 181 694517

About SGS

SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 90,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,000 offices and laboratories around the world.