On Nov.04, 2017, the Health Canada published proposed amendments in the Canada Gazette, Part I that set out mandatory new requirements and tests for magnetic toys in the Toys Regulations.

The proposed regulatory changes include restrictions on both the size and strength of magnetic toy components, as well as specific tests to identify dangerous magnetic parts that may separate from a toy during play. These changes will align Canadian safety requirements for magnetic toys with those in the U.S. and in Europe.

Proposed date of adoption: Not stated.

Proposed date of entry into force: six months after publishing in the Canada Gazette, Part II.

Final date for comments: 17 January 2018.

The proposed amendments including the following two principal elements:

1. A requirement that any magnetic toy or magnetic component that can be entirely enclosed in the      small parts cylinder must have a magnetic flux index less than 0.5 T²  mm² (50 kG² mm²). The small parts  cylinder is illustrated in Schedule 1 of the Toys Regulations and  the small parts test incorporates the use of a force of not more than 4.45 N. The method to assess magnetic flux index is set out in a new Schedule of the Toys Regulations.

2. A requirement stating  that the above criteria must also be met after the magnetic toy or      magnetic component is subjected to a standard series of integrity tests      set out in a new Schedule of the Toys Regulations.The integrity tests include: a soaking test, an initial tension test for magnets, a drop test,      a torque test, a tension test, an impact test for magnets, a compression test, and a final tension test for magnets.

    

Summary of proposed integrity tests for magnetic toys and magnetic components

The proposed amendments also establish two exceptions:

• magnet that is required for the function of a motor, relay, speaker, and other electric or electronic component, as long as the magnetic property is not part of the intended learning or play pattern for the toy.

• magnets in toys that are advanced magnetic electrical experimental kits intended for children eight years of age or older, where the kit has a warning on its packaging and instructions regarding the danger of swallowing magnets.

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