WORCESTER residents and businesses are being warned against buying poor quality spinners after recent tests highlighted potential safety issues.
A recent survey of retailers conducted by Worcestershire Trading Standards revealed that a high proportion of products did not have the correct safety labelling and warnings, and some had parts which detached during safety testing.
The spinners and fidget toys were originally intended as a therapeutic tool for children who struggled to concentrate in class, but they are now produced and marketed as toys and should be safe and comply with Toy Safety Regulations.
Choking on small toy parts is a particular safety risk and the law requires warning labels on toys for children under 36 months old.
The sheer variety of spinners available on the market means sellers and buyers should also look out for issues such as sharp edges and LED lights containing Lithium-ion batteries.
These batteries, if ingested, can cause internal bleeding and should be secured in a compartment that children cannot get into.
County Trading Standards say:
-Only buy from a reputable source.
-Check the spinner has a CE mark and age restriction warning
-Return toys to sellers if safety warnings are not present, as the spinner could be unsafe
-Make sure there are no loose parts
-Only allow children over three years of age to use a spinner
-If a toy is or becomes broken, throw it away or return it to the seller if it is not fit for purpose or defective
To report a spinner incident visit www.worcestershireTS.gov.uk or call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06 for more information.
