Warning over dangerous toys

PARENTS have been issued with a warning this Christmas to think twice before buying toys that fire plastic projectiles.

Council chiefs are concerned about the safety of the toys, which could pose health and safety risks to younger children. Despite changes to toy safety standards in 2007, Hampshire County Council’s Scientific Service found that more than half were failing to meet important guidelines.

In a sample of 19 popular gifts, 58 per cent failed to meet the essential safety requirements set out by British Standards and the Toy (Safety) Regulations Act, posing risks of choking or eye injuries, while more than one in four toys struck their targets with “too much” force.

Hampshire scientists have now alerted Trading Standards officers to the potential dangers and have encouraged parents to buy from recognised retailers.

County Council Leader, Councillor Ken Thornber said: “Some of this year’s must-have Christmas toys can be quite expensive and the temptation may be to opt for cheaper alternatives, but it’s important that parents and adults buying these toys don’t compromise on vital safety standards. Toys with small detachable parts can pose a real danger.”

Read the original article here: http://www.thisishampshire.net/news/8747955.Warning_over_dangerous_toys/ 

Alastair McLaughlin, Toy Safety Specialist from leading product safety experts, TÜV SÜD Product Service said that:

“Projectile toys have multiple risks associated with them, each of which must be addressed by good design, robust safety and quality systems during manufacturing, and testing of samples to show that the safety concerns are met.  The toy safety standards were updated in 2007 to address the specific risks of projectiles, but many designs on the market still do not meet the requirements.'

'Projectiles obviously have the potential to cause injury when they hit a person. The speed and mass of the projectile and its impact surface area are all taken into account to ensure safety.'

'Projectiles are often small, and can be a choking hazard. In 2007, the toy safety standard EN 71 was updated to address this risk, setting minimum dimensions of toy projectiles such as sucker darts and foam projectiles. The suckers and other parts of the toy must not detach easily as any small parts may cause a choking hazard if the minimum dimensions are not met.'

'In a recent survey of projectile toys on the market, enforcement authorities in the UK said they found over half of the products sampled did not comply with the up to date safety standard.'

'TÜV SÜD Product Service can help manufacturers stay up to date, and advise you on using the latest standards and applying all the relevant tests. TÜV SÜD Product Service offer a complete consultancy service to guide you through compliance with the Toy Safety Directive, as well as training, testing and documentation review services.”

Driving in the snow :: Avoid overtaking snowploughs and gritters where possible

Munich. In the morning traffic on the A8 major road near Holzkirchen, the drivers' faces are barely visible through the hastily cleared patches on the fogged-up windscreens. The traffic is making progress, but speeds of more than 60 to 80 kilometres per hour are not possible on the winter roads. Too slow for some truck drivers, who try to get ahead by roaring past the cars. These examples show that the main danger lies not only in icy roads, but also in the behaviour of some road users. Here are some tips from TÜV SÜD for safe driving in wintry conditions.

It's the same picture every winter: traffic jams, slippery roads and poor visibility – self-induced – are obstacles to drivers' accustomed mobility, and snowploughs are just another obstruction – for many drivers, things are moving too slowly. When icy roads and haste are added to the mix, stress is the result. As a consequence, drivers over-estimate their abilities and under-estimate the dangers lurking in the road conditions, tempting even professionals like truck drivers to attempt overtaking manoeuvres in icy conditions. "The first commandment in winter is to plan plenty of time and to consider whether it is really necessary to take the car for your journey, or whether it would be better to use a different method of transport", advises Philip Puls from TÜV SÜD. Unsure drivers are particularly advised to leave their cars at home when winter hits the roads. A further tip: avoidance of short journeys is especially sensible in winter, and short trips should be combined wherever possible. 

Think first: Driving in snow and ice is always a safety risk. For this reason it is better to start planning which trips are absolutely essential on the previous evening or before the start of the week. Short trips such as shopping trips are easy to combine with a little planning. Car pools for school or work runs are also a good way of minimizing time spent driving on slippery roads.

Get up early: Clear visibility is absolutely vital in winter. All car windows must be properly cleared of ice and snow – otherwise a crash may ensue, and a ten-euro fine may be another consequence. This also applies to rear visibility; don't forget the wing mirrors when clearing your windscreen.

Be a late starter: When the engine is cold, fuel consumption can rise to as much as 40 litres per 100 kilometres, also increasing exhaust emissions. In this state the catalytic converter is still inactive, and the engine does not warm up and reach its normal performance at normal fuel consumption until around four kilometres have been driven. So make sure you perform any activities such as buckling your safety belt or clearing the windows before starting the engine, and then drive off immediately, making use of every drop of fuel to actually move forward!

Leave in good time: It would seem only logical that driving on winter roads takes longer than in summer. And yet many drivers pile on the stress, under the impression that they are making slow progress. As a result their concentration is poor, and they put their foot down and attempt daring overtaking manoeuvres – and may end up crashing. To avoid this, plan extra time for all trips. "Calmness and concentration are essential for safe driving", advises Philip Puls.

Leave space: Adequate space is paramount on winter roads. To drive safely, it is particularly important to keep your distance from the vehicle in front – including snowploughs or gritters, a tough test of patience for many drivers. "Especially on motorways, it is important to maintain sufficient distance from road-clearing vehicles and to refrain from overtaking", warns Puls. Snowploughs and gritters often proceed as a team in a convoy, making overtaking a dangerous enterprise if sprays of slush and salt land on the windscreen and obscure visibility. Smart drivers will fall into place behind the ploughs because they can be sure of driving on a freshly cleared road surface.

Think: This year, as always, cars with running engines are everywhere - waiting to pick up the children outside school, in the drive-in queue or at level-crossings. Modern engines save fuel even when switched off for a few minutes – and fears that the engine will not start again in cold weather are groundless with today's cars, say the experts at TÜV SÜD. Make sure, then, to switch off the engine even for short periods of waiting.

Ten tips for making Christmas gift-giving a time of pleasure

As Christmas approaches, retailers have prepared for the rush to buy toys, wide-screen TVs, computer games, mobile phones or winter jackets. But just how safe are those gifts under the Christmas tree? TÜV SÜD Product Service provides consumers with ten tips on how to keep risks to a minimum when buying presents.
1. No hotline to Santa Claus?
Then it’s best to get your presents from specialist retailers, respectable online shops or reputable discounters, where you can return defective goods and also claim damages if the worst comes to the worst.

2. Even Father Christmas has a home address!
Are the manufacturers or importer’s name and full address given on the present you have chosen? Beware if these details are missing, as is often the case with cheap – and possibly dangerous – products without identifiable origin.

3. Being thrifty may be nifty - but not at Christmas.
Ensure that the price of your present is in relation to its material value. Cut-price offers frequently compromise on safety and reliability.

4. A ‘passport’ but not a safety label.
CE marking only reflects a manufacturer’s declaration that its products comply with the minimum requirements of the relevant European directives. Neither product nor production facilities, however, undergo third-party inspection by a certification body. As a ‘passport’ for ensuring free trade in the European Union, CE marking primarily addresses the requirements of the EU authorities, not those of consumers.

5. A safe and merry Christmas.
“GS“ stands for “Geprüfte Sicherheit” or “tested safety“, which means products identified by this mark have been tested by an approved third-party certifier. This test mark also covers the inspection of the production facilities at least once a year. Here at TÜV SÜD Product Service only one in three products passes the type approval test straight away. Any products that fail will need to be re-worked before being re-tested or may never make it on the market. Some product certification organizations have further improved the GS mark, testing additional product characteristics such as fitness for use or energy efficiency. TÜV SÜD Product Service confirms such characteristics by issuing the TÜV SÜD Octagon mark.

6. Christmas in the air? Follow your nose.
avoid buying products with a strongly chemical or scented smell, which may be an indication of pollutants. Painted toys should always be sweat and saliva proof. Run a wetted finger over the present you have selected. If the paint comes off, it’s best to put the product back on the shelf.

7. Festivities free from rough edges: especially where children’s toys are concerned.
Take the toy in your hand and test it for rough edges or sharp corners which may cause injuries.

8. The bigger the present the better!
This primarily holds true for children up to the age of three, who tend to put toys in their mouths. To avoid the risk of suffocation, toddlers should not be allowed to get hold of anything the size of a one pound coin or smaller. Also watch out that toys cannot be taken apart. Take the age restrictions provided by manufacturers seriously!

9. Teddy bears under the shower!
Clean washable presents before they are used, especially if this is recommended in the instructions for use. Allow rag dolls, Father Christmases and other soft toys to dry out thoroughly to prevent mould spores from forming. A 24-hour stay in the freezer takes care of dust mites.

10. Caution: technical jargon!
Does the present come with instructions for use in plain and understandable language? If there are no instructions for use or if the translation sounds as if it was computer-generated you should sit up and take notice. Read the instructions for use thoroughly before using the present for the first time. Be sure to heed all warning notices issued by the manufacturer!

Lighting up the Christmas tree

Christmas is the time of festive decorations and lights – houses, fences, reindeer, angels, Santas, stars and of course Christmas trees are all aglow during the festive period. Fairy lights or strings of lights are an essential part of Christmas decorations. As a practical alternative to candles, they provide romantic lighting without the need for constant supervision. However, string lights are not all sweetness and light. The damage caused when Christmas trees and decorations catch fire adds up to roughly 10 million pounds every year. Major causes of these fires are not only candles, but also – and increasingly frequently – defective string lights, which may make trees or decoration go up in smoke if not handled correctly.

TÜV SÜD Product Service gives tips on how to avoid incorrect installation of string and rope lights:

Smouldering and short circuits

Purchasers of string lights should look out for products bearing the TÜV SÜD Octagon or TÜV SÜD GS mark, showing that these products have been thoroughly tested and meet the relevant safety requirements. String lights must satisfy the requirements of class II or III equipment (recognisable by their international symbols, i.e. a square inside a square or a Roman numeral III within a diamond). String lights without these symbols should not be sold on the market. Home owners planning to brighten up their façade or garden should only use string lights that are designed for outdoor use and are sufficiently weatherproof. The product pros advise do-it-yourselfers to fasten their light decorations with cable ties, which,  unlike staplers, cannot damage electric wires. Christmas decoration fans should be particularly careful when using extension cords, which are not generally weatherproof. Power strips are also unsuitable for permanent outdoor use. “Slowly but surely, moisture inevitably penetrates and will cause a short circuit”, explains Richard Poate, Compliance Service Manager at TÜV SÜD Product Service. Given this, power strips should only be used in dry places. In addition, string lights may only be extended if expressly permitted by the manufacturer. These sets of lights come with water-resistant connectors, and the maximum number of extension sets is given on the package and must be strictly observed, otherwise the wattage specified by the manufacturer may soon be exceeded. Given this, decoration-lovers should take measurements, decide on the length of string lights they require before they buy and, if necessary, go to a specialist shop.

Rapid overheating

String lights with transformers offer higher safety both indoors and out. The transformer steps down the voltage to a maximum of 50 volts, reducing the danger of electric shock in the case of contact with a defective live part. This may be a critical feature, particularly in households with children. Special splashproof transformers identifiable by protection class IP 44, IP 54 or IP 64 are available on the market. The experts also recommend the installation of ‘residual current devices’ or RCDs, which immediately interrupt the electricity supply if a defect occurs. A common mistake made by consumers is to underestimate the heat generated by the individual bulbs of a string of lights, and cover the lights with hand-made decorations made of paper or similar materials. Covering the bulbs causes the developing heat to build up, and may set the decoration alight. Another potentially dangerous situation arises if several bulbs blow at the same time. “In this case, the voltage is spread over the remaining bulbs and causes heat radiation to rise to a critical level. With this in mind, users should check bulbs frequently and replace defective ones immediately to keep fire hazards to a minimum”, advises Richard Poate. If bulbs cannot be replaced, the best move is to pull the plug.

TÜV SÜD: Be well-prepared for winter traffic chaos

When winter first hits, the resulting chaos on roads and motorways can be a tough challenge, particularly for commuters. Weather forecasters predict that the present winter weather is likely to stay for a while. All the more reason, then, for drivers to prepare as well as possible for the difficult traffic conditions that lie ahead. And as the traffic experts from TÜV SÜD know, preparation for spending hours in the car is the most important of all.
Think before you drive: It is generally true to say that cars are definitely not the transport of choice on snow and ice. If you have the option of taking the train or staying at home, do it. If driving is unavoidable, TÜV SÜD expert Philip Puls recommends heeding the following advice before setting off: "Drivers should definitely make more time for their journeys." To be on the safe side, a tow-rope, jump leads, warm blankets, a hand broom, an ice scraper, snow chains and of course a high-visibility vest should be in every car. And talking about high-visibility vests, "If the car breaks down, drivers must leave the car and warn other road users of the obstruction by switching on their hazard warning lights and setting up their warning triangles", advises Puls. "Staying in the car is extremely dangerous under these circumstances", warns the road expert.

Not only because of the new regulations concerning winter tyres, Puls believes "it would be sheer madness to drive in the kind of bad weather we are currently having." If driving is absolutely essential, car owners should ensure their fuel tank is full before setting out. "When the stress of winter traffic is compounded by the fear of running out of petrol in the middle of a motorway traffic jam, drivers place themselves under a lot of strain."

Be prepared for long traffic jams: Most commuters in particular tend to set out for work in the clothes they wear to the office – a suit, light shoes and perhaps a jacket. After all, who thinks of spending hours on the road when that cosy office is only a few miles away? But this is a mistake. "On days when chaos rules the roads, even a 30-kilometre journey can turn into hours of torture", warns Puls. Check the weather forecast and make the appropriate preparations: "A warm jacket, sweater and perhaps a flask of hot tea are certainly a good idea." Puls also recommends warm winter shoes for the car: "Particularly if the car breaks down and the driver has to get out, sturdy winter shoes are no mere luxury, but are essential."

Exercise moderation: Generally, motorists who have got stuck try first of all to get their cars moving again on their own, as can be witnessed time and again in excessive revving and spinning tyres. However, this only makes matters worse. It is better to increase the load on the driving axle and accelerate carefully – preferably using second gear. Observe basic safety principles in attempts to free the car, too; ensure the car is visible by switching on the hazard lights.

Rock to get rolling: Where patience and stress are fruitless, motorists can resort to a combination of the two: rocking the car to and fro. To do so, drivers must get their cars swinging by alternately pressing the gas pedal and releasing the clutch at regular intervals. The rocking distance must then be gradually extended and the rocking momentum used to get the car over the obstacle. Motorists driving a car with automatic transmission must alternate carefully between the R and D position of the gear lever.

Get a grip: A helpful hint when trying to get your car unstuck is to place a door mat or special grid under the wheel of the driving axle to ensure the necessary grip and traction. But note that people in the vicinity of the car must keep their distance. Items placed under wheels may turn into missiles.

Digging out: Shovel, snow chains and lamps are all helpful assistants in releasing a car from the grip of the snow. Blankets and hot drinks prove invaluable when motorists have to wait for help. TÜV SÜD's tip: when shovelling snow take care to clear the snow both in front of and behind the wheels on the driving axle, and make sure that both the axle and the underbody are free. Clearing the snow from the wheels is futile if the car itself is actually sitting on a mound of snow.

Chaining up: A set of snow chains or snow socks is a useful companion. To escape from a snow drift, snow socks are sufficient, and, in fact, in most countries their use is limited to traction assistance. Motorists driving in snowy regions should always take along snow chains. They are needed whenever the use of snow chains is signposted as mandatory.

Spraying: In TÜV SÜD's experience, spray-on "snow chains" and other coatings to improve grip and traction do not live up to their promises.

Towing: If the car has become damaged after skidding and has to be towed, use a rod instead of a rope on icy roads to prevent keeping your distance from the car in front turning into a gamble. TÜV SÜD's experts therefore advise drivers always to keep a tow-rod in their boot during winter.

Better Visibility Improves Road Safety

As further steps towards improving road safety in Europe, reflective tape on trucks and daytime running lights (DRL) on passenger cars will improve visibility in road transport from next year onwards. From February 2011 on, special daytime running lights will become mandatory for all new cars. This measure is aimed at a clear reduction in the number of road accidents, as is the introduction of 'retro-reflective contour marking' on trucks. Although so far these markings have been voluntary, TÜV SÜD warns that from July 2011 onwards, all new trucks of 7.5 tonnes and upwards must have them.

Rain, fog, darkness – poor visibility is high on the list of causes of accidents. Seeing and being seen is an important prerequisite for maintaining adequate safety distance from other cars and reacting correctly. TÜV SÜD welcomes the new provisions aimed at improving visibility, which will come into effect next year. Bernhard Kerscher, CEO of TÜV SÜD Auto Service, comments, "Retro-reflective contour markings on trucks are a simple and relatively cost-effective approach to boosting visibility, immediately improving road safety." The same can be said for the introduction of daytime running lights (DRLs) for new passenger cars up to a gross vehicle weight of 3.5 tonnes from February 2011 onwards.

Without Major Efforts

An EU regulation demanding that daytime running lights (DRL) must be part of the original equipment of a new car from February 2011 onwards – a requirement already fulfilled by numerous automobile manufacturers – will be implemented in stages next year. For commercial vehicles, this requirement will apply one year later, from August 2012 onwards.

Nevertheless, truck visibility is to be improved as early as next year, from which time retro-reflective markings will be made compulsory. These 'contour markings', which have been permitted in Germany for years, will become compulsory from July 2011 onwards for new commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 7.5 tonnes and upwards and new trailers of 3.5 tonnes and more, as set forth in EU Directive 2007/35/EC (adaptation to technical progress concerning the installation of lighting and light-signalling devices on motor vehicles).

A fast and cost-effective process, affixing the adhesive tape to a solid or tarpaulin truck body could hardly be simpler. From October 2011 onwards, the adhesive foil will become compulsory across Europe. However, like daytime running lights, retro-reflective markings will also only become compulsory for new vehicles, and the retrofit will not be made mandatory for cars already registered.

Daytime Running Lights Offer Many Benefits

Why not simply make it mandatory for cars to have their headlights on during the day, similar to motorcycles? "Daytime running lights are optimized for the requirements of daytime driving and offer many advantages compared to normal headlights", explains Günter Schmid, TÜV SÜD. Firstly, for example, the lights are not brighter than the headlights of motorcycles or other weaker road users such as cyclists, and thus do not reduce their conspicuity. Secondly, they need very little power and only marginally increase fuel consumption. By comparison, when driving with daytime running lights (DRLs) all other lights including rear lights, licence plate lights and so on are switched off, unlike driving with dipped headlights (mean additional fuel consumption 0.1 to 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres). As a result, DRLs consume only 20 to 30 per cent of the energy consumed by headlamps. And if LED systems are used, energy consumption amounts to a mere 10 per cent of that consumed by headlights. Thirdly, the vehicle can be seen more clearly by other road users, particularly in poor light, and the speed of other road users is far easier to assess. A Look At Our Neighbours
A look at our neighbouring countries shows that irrespective of the new European regulation, headlamps during the day are already mandatory in many European countries. While driving with the lights on during the day is only a recommendation in some countries, such as France and Switzerland, it is compulsory in others and drivers that violate this rule must expect expensive fines – motorists caught with their lights off during the day are called on to pay 53 euros in the Czech Republic, for example, and as much as 190 euros in Norway. In these countries, motorists whose cars have not yet been equipped with the new daytime running lights may switch on their headlights instead.

Retrofitting

Given this situation, TÜV SÜD offers a tip on retrofitting: in most cases car owners who do not plan to buy a new car in 2011, yet want to improve their visibility and comply with the state of the art, can retrofit their cars. The retrofit is available from 50 euros upwards. Motorists purchasing daytime running lights should look out for the E-test mark and the letters RL on the glass of the lamp. "The lamps must also be approved as per ECE-R 87 (European Regulation for Daytime Running Lights)", explains Schmid. A word on technology: when purchasing daytime running lights, car owners should give preference to LED systems. LEDs consume far less energy, which is good for the environment.

As an additional benefit, these lamps are smaller and therefore easier to install. As installation involves the electronic system of the car, drivers wishing to retrofit DRLs should go to a specialist garage.

Photovoltaics: Easier access to the UK market with TÜV SÜD

As an accredited certification body for the UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), TÜV SÜD supports manufacturers throughout the world in the certification of photovoltaic modules and other components. The MCS certificate is essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid in the UK, and is a critical success factor on the UK market for manufacturers and importers.

By adopting programmes such as the MCS scheme, the UK government aims to promote the use of energy from renewables in the UK and meet the European Union’s targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. "The MCS certificate is required for selling the electricity produced to the National Grid", explains Andreas Faißt, photovoltaics expert at Munich-based TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH." The certificate is thus critical in the selection and purchase of photovoltaic systems and other components.

Boasting a global network, the TÜV SÜD experts support manufacturers in complying with the requirements set out in the British MCS standard. "Our service saves non-UK manufacturers a lot of time and money", explains Faißt. "And thanks to our staff in regional subsidiaries, we can also ensure smooth cooperation across national boundaries." Certification covers type examinations and special on-site factory production control audits. Extensive testing ensures compliance with the relevant standards. "This makes the certificate one of the key criteria for UK consumers and system installers when selecting a product", notes the TÜV SÜD professional. "The MCS logo is not only essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid, but also makes a clear statement about the manufacturer's expertise and responsibility."

For more information about the MCS Scheme contact us by telephone: +44 (0)1489 558100 or email: info@tuvps.co.uk

TÜV SÜD and E.ON press ahead with electro-mobility

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are working closely together to further develop electro-mobility to market readiness. The focus of this strategic partnership is on a broad spectrum of charging systems for electro-vehicles. Developing user friendly electricity fuel stations with the highest safety standards will be an important contribution to building up the infrastructure necessary for the wide use of electro-cars in the future.

As part of their partnership both companies are working on further developing existing concepts and standards for cable connected electricity fuel stations. In this connection E.ON has installed a newly developed electricity fuel station at the TÜV SÜD Service Centre Starnberg near Munich that is reopening today, Friday 9 July. This electricity fuel station will be the first facility of this type to receive a TÜV certificate. In marketing a new generation of electricity fuel stations E.ON is specifically backing this seal of approval, thus underlining its pioneering role in developing electricity fuel stations.

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are also systematically investigating the usage possibilities and prospects of cable free charging stations. For this purpose test operations extending over several months in a test facility also installed in the Starnberg Test Centre will also put inductive charging through its paces. The test results will form an important basis for setting the first, generally applicable technical safety requirements for such charging systems. The criteria set in doing so could apply as guidelines for developing and operating such facilities worldwide in future.

Through this cooperation TÜV SÜD will strengthen its expertise throughout the electro-mobility process chain: from certifying electricity generation and safety standards for vehicles and infrastructure, up to training staff how to handle high voltage technology, as well as recycling vehicles.

For E.ON electricity fuel stations are not just charging points for electro-cars but an important interface for the intelligent electricity grids of the future. So that the increasing electricity generation from small, decentralised facilities can be integrated, energy storage has to supplement intelligent grids. One option for this is electro-cars if they could be “filled up” with electricity using an intelligent electricity fuel station when it is windy and consumption is low.

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Staying cool on the slopes – with ski goggles

As ski fans prepare for fun on the slopes in the forthcoming season, they should be sure to include ski goggles as an essential item of basic safety equipment for any winter sports enthusiast. The sports product experts at TÜV SÜD have tips on choosing the right goggles and on product care. TÜV SÜD tips for purchasers


A single pair of goggles can offer many types of protection. Goggles protect the wearer from glare and harsh UV rays. They also protect the eyes from the effects of the weather – from snow to rain or sleet – and keep wind and sun away from the sensitive conjunctiva of the eye. A well-fitting pair of goggles can also protect against eye injuries from falls.


It's all about the lenses. In high-quality ski goggles, they are usually made from shatterproof and impact-resistant polycarbonate, a type of plastic which ensures clear, distortion-free vision. To ensure as wide a field of vision as possible, the lenses generally extend beyond the eye and are not divided into two separate lenses like 'normal' glasses. The TÜV SÜD pros advise that double lenses help to reduce moisture build-up behind the goggles, and allow moisture to dissipate more easily.


On the ski slopes, glorious sunshine can be torture for the eyes. Tinted lenses protect against glare and optimize visibility. Dark brown or dark grey lenses are the most effective in extremely bright sunlight. There are four levels of protective filter. In twilight, snow or fog, vision is improved by yellow or reddish-orange tinted lenses. TÜV SÜD advises purchasers to consult a specialist retailer for detailed information on protective filters, lens tints and UV protection in ski goggles.


But what about people who have to wear prescription glasses every day? On no account should they hit the slopes without their 'visual aids', warn the TÜV SÜD experts. There are a number of options they can explore, such as ski goggles with clips which take optical prescription inserts. If the wearer's visual acuity changes, only the clip needs to be replaced. In another solution known as a shield, the prescription lenses themselves are integrated into the goggle frame. Finally, 'over-the-glass' goggles are designed to be worn over normal glasses. A popular alternative is to resort to contact lenses while skiing, which enable normal sports goggles to be worn.


Sunshine is not the only source of eye strain – wind can also cause problems. For this reason, goggles should fit as closely as possible around the eye. To prevent fogging, an effective ventilation system is essential. Continuous optimum flow of air is achieved either by ventilation slits or by a battery-operated electric fan – a high-tech alternative particularly popular with extreme sports enthusiasts. A further precaution against fogging is an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens. However, only high-quality models offer a long lifespan – cheaper versions simply wash off over time.


To ensure wearing comfort on the slopes and effective protection if you take a tumble, goggles frames must be flexible and adjustable. Flexible plastic is the best material; it is lightweight and does not become cold or brittle, even in low temperatures.


The main safety priority for goggles is the correct fit. Goggles fit correctly when they sit comfortably without slipping or chafing. The frame should fit closely around the head. Fit and comfort can be optimized by choosing goggles with a well-fitting stretch head strap and padding at all points where the goggles are in contact with the skin; this padding should be of soft, elastic material that is comfortable to wear. The head strap should be designed for combination with a helmet. TÜV SÜD advises taking the helmet along when you buy your goggles and spending plenty of time in trying on different goggle styles.


Purchasers of ski goggles can look for the GS (Tested Safety) mark or the TÜV SÜD octagon quality mark as guidance in their product choice. The sports product experts test attributes including stability, material and usability.


TÜV SÜD tips for care

• If snow gets into the goggles, simply tap it out and dry the inside of the lens by dabbing with an eyewear care cloth. Do not rub the lens, as this may damage (scratch) the anti-fog coating or the glass.
• Always store and transport the goggles in the case supplied, to ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.
• Goggles lenses that have cracked or chipped as the result of a fall can be replaced – a specialist retailer is the best place to ask.

EVERYONE seems to know a friend or loved one with cancer these days. Some experts say we must change our lifestyles to prevent it while others claim it is simply a disease of the modern world.

Article taken from the Daily Express - 4/11/10 http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/209444

Almost every day another name gets added to that most unpopular of roll calls: the celebrity cancer register. This week presenter Danny Baker joined actors Michael Douglas, the late Simon McCorkindale and Jennifer Saunders in one of the West’s least exclusive clubs. Other victims include celebrities who are surely among the fittest in their age group, such as tennis legend Martina Navratilova and Kylie Minogue.

Professor Rosalie David at the university said: “In industrialised societies cancer is second only to cardiovascular disease as a cause of death. But in ancient times it was extremely rare. There is really nothing in the natural environment that can cause cancer so it has to be a man-made disease, down to pollution and changes to our diet
and lifestyle.”

However Cancer Research UK disputes claims that cancer was unknown in the Ancient World and cites several natural causes of the disease. UV radiation from the sun, bacteria, viruses and the radio- active gas radon are as natural as breathing and all linked to cancer.

Even here man’s influence may be at play. Cases of the most dan- gerous form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, have more than quadrupled over the past 30 years in Britain. This is almost certainly because package holidays have let us worship the sun in droves in climates too extreme for our sensitive northern skins. What has also changed in recent years is the weakening of Earth’s natural protection against UV radiation, the ozone layer, thanks to damage from man-made chemicals.

Cancer Research UK says that lifestyle factors – smoking, drinking and obesity – all add to the cancer risk. But again alcohol is far from new. Britons have been boozing for centuries. It’s what we’re good at. And a visit to a cancer clinic does not reveal a gaggle of Teletubbies of whom you could say: “You ate too many pies. You drank too many pints. It’s your own stupid fault.”

I don’t pretend to know why there is a surge in cancer rates.  Greater minds than mine have yet to find a clear answer. Obviously we are living longer and in the West detection rates are dramatically better than when I was a child. But that surely cannot explain the doubling and trebling over such a short period of these cancers. You have to wonder whether there is something in the air we breathe, the water we drink or the food we eat. Is that panoply of must-have electric gizmos having unforeseen effects? Are modern lives now so stressful that our bodies are rebelling?

One of the prime suspects has to be the huge battery of chemicals in daily use. In 2005 scores of scientists from across Europe put their names to the Prague Declaration to express their concerns about exposure to hormone disrupting or gender-bending chemicals. They said: “The incidence of cancers such as breast, testis and prostate continues to increase in many European countries, although there are notable differences between countries... This shows that these cancers are linked to factors in the environment, including the diet.”

In 2006 the European Commission said long-term exposure to pesticides can lead to “serious disturbances to the immune system, sexual disorders, cancers, sterility, birth defects, damage to the nervous system and genetic damage”.

Yet the chemicals industry had to be dragged kicking and screaming into the EU’s agreement on the Registration and Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. And veteran campaigner Georgina Downs is still battling for rural residents to be given the right to be told which chemicals are being sprayed on nearby fields and when.

It is only right to point out that Cancer Research UK describes the evidence linking pesticide use to cancer as “inconclusive”. Moreover the amounts of pesticides found on fruits and vegetables are “tiny”. A spokeswoman said: “There is no evidence that they can damage health.”

That may well be the case but none of us goes through life being exposed to one chemical at a time. We are daily exposed to a cocktail of chemicals and there is little research on the effects that this ever-changing mixture might have.

Exposure to hormone-disrupting and potentially carcinogenic chemicals comes from all sorts of sources: plastic bottles, make-up and even our furniture.

We would find it hard to live without many of them and paradoxically some, such as brominated flame retardants, save lives. Similarly we rely on those villainous pesticides for cheap food. But something is going on in our wider environment.

In Europe male fish exposed to sewage treatment have become gender-benders with eggs in their testes. The widespread use of the now banned insecticide DDT in the Fifties caused birds of prey numbers to crash as the poison worked its way up the food chain. If these chemicals can cause such damage to wildlife why be surprised should their tentacles reach man?

If this hidden exposure is a problem there is not a lot you can do. The price of so many organic foods, for instance, means that shunning pesticides completely is an option open to few.

The glimmer of hope is that the treatment of cancer is improving every year. In the Seventies five out of 10 women with breast cancer survived beyond five years. Now the figure is more than eight out of 10. For prostate cancer the survival rate has risen in the same period from 30 per cent to 75 per cent.

Anyone who develops cancer, therefore, can look forward with some confidence to beating this nasty, insidious disease. And in the meantime there’s only one thing to do: enjoy yourself while you can.

“Do not underestimate chemicals”

Phil Dolling, TÜV SÜD REACh consultant commented “The Registration, Authorisation, Evaluation and Restriction of Chemicals legislation (REACh) is an extremely important piece of European Law and compliance with it is paramount in ensuring that potentially dangerous chemicals do not find their way into everyday consumer items.  We must never take for granted the importance of human health and protection of our environment.   We continually help our clients demonstrate compliance with REACh but even then the rapid alert system for non food products (RAPEX) lists non-conforming items every week as a result of market surveillance actions conducted throughout Europe.  Chemicals are found everywhere in common items such as cosmetics, paint and plastics.  Letting potentially hazardous chemicals slip into the supply chain is very dangerous, it just isn’t worth the gamble”.

For further information about REACh please contact our REACh compliance team on +44 (0)1489 558213 or email info@tuvps.co.uk

View the original article here: http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/209444

Confused About EMC Testing?

What is EMC?

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) as:

The ability of a device, equipment or system to function satisfactorily in its electromagnetic environment without introducing intolerable electromagnetic disturbances to anything in that environment.

There are therefore two aspects to EMC; firstly controlling the electromagnetic 'noise' produced, also known as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or emissions; and secondly designing equipment to be sufficiently immune to intentional and unintentional electromagnetic sources in the environment so that it continues to operate correctly and does not become 'susceptible' to interference.

The problems of interference range from nuisance (e.g. poor quality TV/Radio reception) to unreliability (e.g. computer crashing) to safety (e.g. railway signalling failure).

Within Europe, electrical equipment with CE Marking meets the EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive. The Directive has essential protection requirements for emissions and immunity to ensure that, for example; broadcast radio and television reception is unaffected by interference and that equipment will continue to operate adequately in the vicinity of radio transmitters such as mobile phones.

For manufacturers and suppliers in Europe, as well as EMC testing equipment under the EMC Directive, it is necessary to compile Technical Documentation, make a Declaration of Conformity and apply CE Marking. An option is to use an EMC Notified Body to provide an assessment.

What are EMC Emissions?

Emissions are described as the unwanted generation of electromagnetic energy.  Under the EMC Directive, the permitted levels of emissions are specified in Harmonised Standards for products, product families or generic environments. Usually it is necessary to perform EMC emission testing to demonstrate that the limits are met or if they are not met, to identify where design changes are required.

How can you prevent unwanted EMC Emissions?

The emissions can either be 'radiated' via electromagnetic fields that couple to other equipment or 'conducted' through wired connections such as the power cable. To prevent emissions it is possible to add filters and suppressors to cable interfaces, add cable or equipment shielding and grounding or change the circuit and PCB design.

What is EMC Immunity?

EMC Immunity (often called susceptibility) refers to the correct operation of electrical equipment in the presence of electromagnetic disturbances.  Under the EMC Directive, the minimum levels of immunity are specified in Harmonised Standards. Usually it is necessary to perform EMC immunity testing to demonstrate that the limits are met or if they are not met, to identify where design changes are required.

What can be done to increase immunity?

Interference can couple into equipment by the same routes as emissions, i.e. 'radiated' or 'conducted' coupling and similar measures can be applied such as to add filters and suppressors to cable interfaces, add cable or equipment shielding and grounding or change the circuit and PCB design.

For more information about EMC Testing visit our webpage: http://www.tuvps.co.uk/home_psuk/services/testing/emc_testing

TÜV SÜD establishes global structures for battery testing

TÜV SÜD is massively expanding its testing and certification activities for batteries of electrically powered vehicles. As announced at its press conference at eCarTec today, Tuesday 19 October, TÜV SÜD and its partner Lion Smart are investing several million euros in the construction of a new battery laboratory in Garching near Munich. The existing testing laboratories in Auburn Hills/USA and Singapore will be simultaneously expanded to the same standard as the laboratory designed for Munich. Under the roof of the recently established TÜV SÜD Battery Testing GmbH, the experts will then offer battery testing based on global safety standards.

"The new construction of the laboratory in Munich and the facilities in Auburn Hills and Singapore make TÜV SÜD the first provider of third-party testing services to operate an international network of testing laboratories for the batteries of electric vehicles", underlined Horst Schneider, TÜV SÜD AG Member of the Board responsible for MOBILITY. As Schneider emphasized, a priority for TÜV SÜD is to equip the testing laboratories and design the testing procedures in such a way that testing and certification can be performed to uniform standards and results are reproducible throughout the world: "We are thus responding to demands by industry, and can also play a critical role in ensuring high global standards in battery safety."

TÜV SÜD is investing several million euros in constructing the new laboratory on the premises of TÜV SÜD Automotive in Garching and in extending testing facilities in Auburn Hills and Singapore. Full operation of the Garching–based laboratory is scheduled for as early as mid-2011. The laboratory will test the chemical and electrical safety of new batteries for electrically powered vehicles and subject the high-voltage units to crash tests and 'abuse tests', i.e. tests which examine the risks faced when the batteries are operated or used incorrectly.

To implement its international campaign, TÜV SÜD and its partner Lion Smart GmbH have established TÜV SÜD Battery Testing GmbH to bundle their global battery testing activities. Lion Smart GmbH, based in Frieding and Herrsching, has been established in battery testing for years and is excellently integrated in both industry and science networks.

The Board of Management of TÜV SÜD Battery Testing GmbH comprises Daniel Quinger, now member of management at Lion Smart, and Stefan Rentsch, previously head of TÜV SÜD's "e-mobility innovation project". The company aims to establish a close partnership with TU München (technical university of Munich) and the Fraunhofer Institut in the field of battery design and development. "For TÜV SÜD, the present investment marks an important step towards establishing ourselves as the number one service provider in all safety issues of electromobility", explains Horst Schneider.

Electromobility is one of TÜV SÜD's core themes. The Munich-based provider of testing and certification services already covers the entire range of safety issues related to electric cars. At eCarTec, which continues until 21 October, TÜV SÜD can be found in Hall B5, Stand 330, where its experts provide information about a variety of themes including a new battery safety certificate for pedelecs, the development of roadworthiness testing for electric vehicles and charging systems, homologation and type approval of electric vehicles, and the training of staff in high-voltage technology and safe handling of the vehicles. The TÜV SÜD experts are also presenting a new standard for determining the range of electric vehicles.

Visit the TÜV SÜD website: http://www.tuvps.co.uk/home_psuk/industries/energy/electric_vehicle

The Halloween mask that’s not so “Great for parties”...

One of the latest products to be stopped from reaching our shelves is a Halloween mask for children.  The EU Toys Directive sets out the standards which all toys must meet as a minimum safety requirement. 

The mask, which was picked up by the Romanian Authorities, fails to meet the Directive as it has a lack of ventilation causing a risk of suffocation. 

The product packaging says “Great for parties”...we are not convinced!

Trick or Treat!

Retailers and consumers must be aware that unsafe products still find their way into our homes, however the majority of products are safe and do comply with safety standards. RAPEX, the EU rapid alert system for dangerous products issues a weekly report highlighting unsafe products picked up by market surveillance authorities such as Trading Standards, see http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/dyna/rapex/rapex_archives_en.cfm. 

To help combat these unsafe products TÜV SÜD works closely with manufacturers, importers, retailers and the market surveillance authorities.

“Not only do our safety compliance experts ensure that products meet international requirements, we routinely conduct product assessments and factory inspections to ensure ongoing safety and quality.”  Richard Poate, Compliance Services Manager, TÜV SÜD.

Our CE marking facility near Stratford conducts risk assessments for due diligence; product testing; compilation and checking of technical documentation and advises steps to be taken to ensure toys are reliably manufactured to the designed to 'safe specifications'.  “These services provide manufacturers with the tools and support necessary to be able for them to sell safe toys; it is vital to ensure that all due diligence is taken, especially where child safety is involved” Alastair McLaughlin, Toy Safety Specialist, TÜV SÜD.

The product is listed on the RAPEX report as item 19, Week 41, 2010.  Find the link here:

http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/dyna/rapex/create_rapex.cfm?rx_id=319

FAA issues safety alert on lithium batteries after UPS crash

The US FAA has issued a safety alert recommending that airlines adopt new procedures to reduce the risk of onboard fire posed by lithium batteries.

Airlines should ask customers to identify bulk shipments on airway bills and store such items in Class C cargo compartments, the FAA says. The agency also asks airlines to re-examine their own practices for transporting lithium batteries, as well as pay "special attention" to existing regulations.

The recommendations apply only to lithium batteries transported as cargo. Passengers and crewmembers can continue to use the power source without notifying the airline.

The safety alert was issued as the agency considers issuing a final rule with new proposals to reduce the risks of transporting such batteries. The proposed ruling is now under review by the Office of Management and Budget, which the administrative arm of the White House.

Non-peer-reviewed results of a study by the FAA Tech Centre show that lithium batteries can enter a condition called thermal runaway and reach temperatures over 593ºC (1,100ºF).

The safety alert comes one month after UPS flight 006, a Boeing 747-400, crashed in Dubai.

"Investigation of the crash is still underway, and the cause of the crash has not been determined," the FAA says. "We are aware, however, that the plane's cargo did include large quantities of lithium batteries and believe it prudent to advise operators of that fact."

Lithium-ion batteries deserve respect!

Richard Poate, Battery Certification Manager at TÜV Product Service, commented “lithium-ion batteries are found in more and more applications and whilst this chemistry provides great advantages in terms of performance we must never forget that this chemistry is quite volatile and must be treated with respect.  A key element of battery safety requires environmental and electrical testing to check their compliance during transportation.  Here at TÜV we routinely conduct such tests including altitude simulation, shock, vibration, short circuit and over-charge.  This recent incident just goes to reinforce the importance of battery testing in ensuring everyone’s safety.”

TÜV Product Service is accredited by UKAS to perform lithium-ion battery testing in accordance to UN Manual of Tests 38.3 Regulation.  This regulation is part of a wider set of regulations set out to ensure safety of goods during transit across air, sea and land. 

The environmental testing facilities at the purpose built testing laboratory in Fareham, Hampshire, covers an area of 1200m² and has a unique combination of test facilities.

It is also important that batteries are tested and that packaging handlers are trained to identify lithium-ion batteries from information provided and packaging markings and use approved methods for safe handling.

For more information about TÜV Product Service visit http://www.tuvps.co.uk. Alternatively contact us on +44 (0)1489 558100 or email info@tuvps.co.uk

To view the original article by Flight Global on the 8/10/10 please find the following link: http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/10/08/348306/faa-issues-safety-alert-on-lithium-batteries-after-ups.html