BRITISH STANDARDS

BS 7177:1996

The specification for resistance to ignition of mattresses, divans and bed bases.

Relevant link:   United Kingdom: BS 7177:1996

Published by: The British Standards Institution

BS 1877-10:1997

The specification for safety requirements and test methods regarding domestic bedding with specific specification for mattresses and bumpers for children's cots, perambulators and similar domestic articles.

Relevant link:   United Kingdom: BS 1877-10:1997

Published by: The British Standards Institution 

Although many parents recognise the symbols used on children's equipment and toys, you may not understand what each one really means.

Fire safety

What it means

• Will not easily catch light from cigarettes or matches.
• Does not mean fireproof.

CE mark

What it means

• Manufacturer's self declaration that its product meets basic EU legal requirements.
• This is not in fact a safety symbol.

Kite mark

What it means

• The Kite mark confirms that the British Standards Institution has tested a product and found it meets a particular standard.

Age label

What it means

• Unsuitable for children under three years because it might, for instance, contain small parts.

Lion mark

What it means

• The Lion mark shows that a toy meets British safety standards and adheres to strict advertising and counterfeiting ethics.

BSI numbers

Products with a British Standards Institution (BSI) number shows they comply with certain safety requirements. When purchasing a product check to see whether it is marked with either BS EN xxxx or BS xxxx followed by a date (the last four digits of the number).

If this is not apparent – sometimes these numbers are hidden away – check with the person selling it whether there is a British Safety Standard for the particular item.