Survey on Toy Safety [Act] 2004

Abstract

This study is divided into three parts. Part A gives a brief overview of Maltese legislation concerning Product and Toy Safety whilst including understanding of the Act and focuses on other related analysis regarding Product Safety. It will also review literature and articles published on the subject. This will also include interviews with third parties who were part responsible for the drafting of the legislations. Part B comprises the results of a survey conducted among 39 households (consumers) and another survey conducted among 13 importers and traders in toy businesses, including a discussion on the outcome and findings Part C is dedicated to suggestions, recommendations and conclusions. This research attempts to answer whether: Manufacturers, importers and retailers are adequately informed of their obligations as laid down in this Product Safety Act and Toy Safety Legislations. It also attempts to find out what are the perceptions of consumers and what measures are the Consumer and Competition Division taking to minimise toy- related accidents from happening due to negligence and/or non adherence to the Product Safety Act. Other points that are tackled include whether retailers' and consumers' organizations doing enough to help their members inform themselves so as to choose products/ toys which are safe to use. Whilst acknowledging the significant number of citizens abiding by these legislations we shall see how and to what extent they are actually being disregarded. The major factor that emerged from this research is that the respondents (consumers) are not yet well informed to what constitutes a dangerous product (toy) and what is the exact definition of the CE Marking. and what it implies. Besides, it was an overall statement from importers and traders that the majority of Maltese consumers still look at the price first when buying a toy rather then the safety and age labelling of the toy according to the Id who will be using it.