The consumer affairs watchdog will be investigating reports that a number of toys on sale in Valletta during carnival lacked the CE mark.
All toys marketed in the EU must carry a CE conformity label, which is the manufacturer’s declaration that the item satisfies all essential safety requirements.
According to the Toy Safety Directive, manufacturers must perform tests and risk assessments for every product before selling them in the designated market.
Manufacturers could be held liable for injuries and fatalities resulting from design flaws, use of unsuitable materials and substandard production.
Readers contacted Times of Malta to express concern that such toys were being offered for sale from stalls in Valletta during carnival.
“I’m aware of how dangerous these items could be,” one reader wrote. “I used to watch a programme on the BBC called Fake Britain and they constantly used to warn viewers of the hazards of owning such items. I wonder whether something similar could be done in Malta as most people do not seem to be aware.”
When contacted, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) said that its technical regulations division carried out inspections across the Maltese Islands at retail outlets, including stalls.
“We cover a large range of consumer products, including toys and other products used by children,” the head of the market surveillance directorate, Michael Cassar, explained.
This year, the division conducted 23 inspections at various outlets, five of which specifically covered toys.
Earlier this year, a toy rattle was banned from the market after it was found to pose a serious risk.
The toy had small parts that were easily detachable and could be swallowed.
Economic operators were advised and warned by the MCCAA not to place non-compliant products on the market.
Asked whether the level of monitoring would be stepped up, Mr Cassar said the regulator regarded toy safety as a priority and was already doing everything in its power to safeguard the health and safety of children and their parents/guardians.
“However, we are always exploring ways that help us go the extra mile to enhance our children’s well-being.”
While confirming the regulator would look into the matter, Mr Cassar urged consumers who purchased any product suspected as non-compliant to call MCCAA on 2395 2000 or e-mail info@mccaa.org.mt to initiate an investigation.