Consumer Goods
Leicestershire and Staffordshire Scientific Services has considerable experience in physical testing and chemical analysis, to check safety and compliance of consumer products. We carry out work for private businesses including retailers and importers.
Testing and analysis can identify high flammability, unsafe physical construction (sharp edges, points, etc) and dangerous toxic content. False descriptions, claims and advertising can be identified if required. Interpretation of the test results and appropriate advice can be provided free of charge.
Products received at the laboratory for safety testing include the following:
1. Consumer Goods intended for Children
Toys
We have particular expertise in the testing of toys, are accredited for a wide range of tests, and receive samples from across the UK and abroad. The aim of the testing is to minimise the risk of injury, illness or danger to children. Comprehensive testing is carried out as detailed in the section on toys. This includes mechanical safety, flammability and the presence of poisons including metals and phthalates.
Children's Clothing
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We have carried out some work with the aim of making manufacturers and retailers aware of the risks associated with the way that children’s clothing is constructed. Examples of tests include flammability; the testing of drawstrings which may lead to strangulation or entrapment; and of attachments which may be choking hazards. A case study on the safety of children's clothing tested in conjunction with Leicestershire Trading Standards can be downloaded here: For information on the results of our testing see the February 2009 edition of TS Today magazine from the Trading Standards Institute. |
Children's Cutlery And Feeding Utensils
To ensure that these specialist products are suitable for children up to the age of three, we test the material composition, construction, performance, packaging and labelling of cutlery and feeding teats, drinking accessories, feeding bottles and drinking cups.
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2. Specialist Consumer Goods
Imported Goods
Imported goods must comply with the same British and European standards as goods manufactured in the UK. This relates to both the product and its labelling claims.
Sunglasses, Ski Goggles and Motorcycle Visors
We test sunglasses, ski goggles and motorcycle visors. The tests for sunglasses include ensuring that they offer sufficient protection from harmful UV light and that they will not distort the appearance of traffic signals if worn while driving. We offer similar tests for ski goggles and motorcycle visors.
We receive such samples from throughout the UK.
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Ceramics
Leicestershire and Staffordshire Scientific Services has particular expertise in the testing of ceramics. The Staffordshire laboratory tests ceramics for most of the well known producers in Staffordshire potteries region. We can test for compliance with the Ceramic Articles in Contact with Food (England) Regulations 2006 and also provide export certificates.
Buoyancy Aids
We can apply a number of tests to ensure that buoyancy aids are fit for purpose. These include: material tests to establish tear, pressure, abrasion and decomposition resistance, checking thermal stability and colour-fastness; component testing for connective strength, buoyancy, load bearing capacity and flammability. We will also measure how long it takes to put on the buoyancy aid and test that the aid offers freedom of movement when worn and fitted properly. The relevant standard is BS EN 13138.
Cookware
Cookware is tested for mechanical safety, heat resistance and the release of harmful metals into food.
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Toothbrushes
We check whether the bristles on toothbrushes are securely embedded.
Cosmetics
As well as products from the beauty counter, this category includes soap, toothpaste, shampoo and other personal hygiene products, which are tested to ensure that active ingredients do not breach safety levels and that no undesirable ingredients are present.
Sun Protection Factor Of Fabrics
We can check that clothes live up to their labelling claims with regard to protection offered against ultraviolet radiation to help keep consumers safe from damage caused by exposure to sunlight.
Pencils And Graphic Instruments
As well as testing for choking risks of writing instrument caps, we will test that the amount of any chemical or metal, which leaches from any part of an instrument, is within safe limits.
Electric Blanket Testing
Experts recommend that electric blankets over three years old should be checked annually to ensure they remain safe for use. Our Staffordshire laboratory tests electric blankets.
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Decorative Candles
We will test decorative candles for fire risk and to measure paraffin wax, palm oil and lead content in candles and wicks.
Oil And Paraffin Lamps
We check oil and paraffin fuelled equipment, not only to reduce the fire risk, but also to minimise the risk of oil or paraffin being swallowed, which can cause severe lung damage and is particularly dangerous in young children.
Specialist Testing
We can purchase or construct new equipment for other specialist testing. For example, we recently tested microwaveable bears for a customer, and found several which ignited under test conditions.
Links to Further Information
Our Credentials
Leicestershire and Staffordshire Scientific Services is an efficient and reliable scientific service offering testing and analysis, advice and support to customers in the public and private sector.
We have four Public Analysts, thirty-five well-qualified, experienced staff and two laboratories, based in Leicester and Stafford, accredited to UKAS Quality Standard ISO/IEC 17025 which are both Official Food Enforcement Laboratories
View UKAS accreditation schedule for Leicestershire for Staffordshire.
Getting In Touch
Staffordshire Scientific Services
14 Martin Street
Stafford ST16 2LG
T: 01785 277 825 F: 01785 277 812Email: county.analysts@staffordshire.gov.uk
Staffordshire County Council website
