EU Safety Gate · Report-2007-5

Marks & Spencer · Soft toys - Light-Up Rattle

The toy poses a serious risk of choking because where there is detachment of the battery compartment, critical parts are released (the battery lid, 3-pin plastic insert, screw, nut, battery compartment and three button cells batteries). The parts are considered to present a choking hazard:- the battery compartment lid could cause direct obstruction of the airway, should it reach the rear of the oral cavity;- the 3-pin plastic insert could become lodged in the oropharynx because of its shape, however it would be unlikely to prevent the flow of air;- the screw and the button cell batteries are serious aspiration hazards. In particular if the button cells become lodged in the trachea they can cause complete obstruction of the airway or they can cause serious damage by electrical and chemical burns. Detachment of the battery compartment is due to failure of attachment of the plastic insert by inadequate gluing. This toy does not comply with the Toys Directive and the relevant European standard.