Child health protection: phthalates, dangerous substances, safety of toys (amend. Directives 76/769/EEC, 88/378/EEC)

The Commission supports the common position because it is founded on the precautionary measures needed to protect children having regard also to considerable scientific uncertainty as to whether certain phthalates can present a risk to them. In addition, the Commission supports the common position provisions for the review of scientific developments on phthalates and their potential substitutes after 4 years.

Lastly, the Commission made a declaration at the Competitive Council Meeting on 24 September 2004 announcing its intention to prepare a guidance document in order to facilitate the implementation of the Directive. This document will address in particular the provisions on restrictions of certain substances in toys and childcare articles intended for children under three years of age insofar as they concern the condition "which can be placed in the mouth by them" as specified in the annex to the Directive.