The Art of Package Design

REGULATIONS AND LEGALITIES
it is deemed to be a small part. If
the items extends above the rim,
then it is assumed that the small
part, if lodged in a child’s throat,
can be grasped and removed.
Some parts may not fit in
the Small Parts Tube but can
still be classified as such. For
example, a felt marker about 5
inches long obviously will not
fit in this tube, but take off the
cap and see if that fits. If it does,
then you have a small part. Also,
if an item can become dislodged
or broken off, it may become a
small part. Testing labs will do a
1.00 in
25.40 mm
1.25 in
31.70 mm
SMALL PARTS TUBE
2.25 in
57.10 mm
drop test to determine if packaging protects a toy. This same test
will also determine if an item can be broken or come apart and
be classified as a small part.
Companies will sometimes classify a toy as “6 years and up”.
This is done if the toy is legitimately meant for older children,
but sometimes it is done to avoid having to use the small parts
warning. But as a manufacturer, ask yourself if you can guarantee
that your product will not come in contact with a younger child
in the home. A toy marketed to older children may appear to
avoid these regulations but we live in a very litigious society and
you can avoid these issues by labeling all toys with Small Parts
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