EN 862 Child-Resistant Packaging - Requirements and Test Procedures for Non-Reclosable Packaging for Non-Pharmaceutical Products

The European standard "EN 862 Packaging - Child-resistant packaging - Requirements and test procedures for non-reclosable packaging for non-pharmaceutical products" describes the performance requirements and test methods for non-reclosable packaging designated as child-resistant and intended to contain non-pharmaceutical products. This standard is for type approval only and is not intended for quality assurance purposes.

This standard applies to single-use, non-reclosable packaging consisting of one or more self-contained units. Non-reclosable packaging for pharmaceutical products is outside the scope of this standard. These are covered by the separate standard ISO 14375 Child-resistant, non-reclosable packaging for pharmaceutical products - Requirements and tests.

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply:

• Child-resistant packaging: Packaging that is difficult for small children to open or access the contents, but that adults can use properly.
• Non-resealable child-resistant packaging: Child-resistant packaging or a piece of child-resistant packaging that cannot be properly resealed after all or part of its contents have been removed.
• Substitute product: An ineffective substitute product that is similar to the product it replaces.
• Unit: A discrete quantity of any product that will be completely removed from its packaging.
• Type approval: The procedure for certifying a specific type of non-reclosable packaging constructed from a specified set of materials, meeting the requirements of this standard, as child-resistant.
• Disposable packaging: Packaging consisting of one or more units that are not only individually protected but also individually packaged for single use.

In this standard, the general requirements are defined as follows:

• When tested in accordance with the requirements of this standard, a non-reclosable child-resistant packaging shall provide adequate resistance to opening by children.
• Adult access to the contents can be verified through optional adult testing. A non-reclosable child-resistant packaging must comply with the performance requirements specified in this standard, as well as be suitable for the contents, provide mechanical protection, and function properly throughout the life of the contents and packaging.
• Manufacturers, component manufacturers, fillers and packers of such packaging must initiate and implement procedures to control the quality of packaging materials to ensure that type-approved packaging complies with the requirements of this standard.

In this standard, the performance requirements are defined as follows:

• Child testing: For a single-use package, a child test fails if the child accesses one or more units from the provided packaging within 10 minutes, or within 5 minutes if no demonstration is made. When tested and evaluated in accordance with this standard, the packaging must be child-resistant.
• Adult testing: This testing is optional unless a container-opening device is provided at the point of sale. When tested and evaluated according to this standard, at least 90 percent of adults should be able to access at least 1 unit within the 1-minute testing period without any demonstration. To minimize unnecessary testing exposure to children, adult testing should be performed before child testing.

In principle, type approval for non-reclosable child-resistant packaging is obtained by the sequential testing method for children. A test group of up to 200 children aged 42 to 51 months is divided into pairs. Each child is given a series of non-reclosable packages that they can open in any way they choose. If a child cannot access the package within 5 minutes, the opening method is demonstrated by a supervisor, and the child is given another 5 minutes to open the package. Results are recorded sequentially as obtained. The package is considered child-resistant if the result trace on the test charts passes into the acceptance zone, or if at least 80 percent of the children cannot access one or more units within 10 minutes, and if at least 85 percent of the children cannot access one or more units within the first 5 minutes. Accessibility of the package can also be assessed by an optional full-panel test for adults using a test group of 100 adults. Each adult is given a non-reclosable package, the appropriate opening tools, and written instructions, and is given 5 minutes to familiarize themselves with the package. The number of adults who open the package within the 1-minute test period is recorded. A pack is considered to comply with the requirements of this standard if at least 90 percent of adults can access at least 1 unit in 1 minute.

Sufficient packs should be produced using the recommended manufacturing process to ensure that a representative sample can be selected for testing by the inspector and a replacement for reference purposes can be provided. Hazardous products should not be used to fill the pack to be tested; a suitable substitute product should be used. The material and design of the test samples must comply with the technical specifications and be representative of an average batch of the original packs. For children's panel testing, packs should be unprinted. A new pack should be provided for each member of the test group for each test. Each sample pack should be checked for integrity before testing. Packs should be presented to children without their outer retail packaging and they should be given access to individual units.

In general, the testing procedure is carried out in two stages:

• Child test
• Adult test

Child safety is a top priority in product design, especially when packaging potentially hazardous household items. The EN 862 standard specifies safety requirements and test methods for non-reclosable packaging designed to be child-resistant. This standard plays a critical role in helping to prevent accidental poisoning by making it more difficult for young children to open certain packages.

This standard is designed for packaging used for non-pharmaceutical products that may pose a risk to children. For example:

• Household cleaning products
• DIY chemicals (e.g., adhesives, paints, solvents)
• Pesticides
• Nicotine-containing products
• Some cosmetics (e.g. hair dye, nail polish remover)

These products often contain substances that can be harmful or fatal if swallowed, making child-resistant packaging an important line of defense.

This standard establishes both design criteria and performance testing procedures to ensure child resistance:

• Child durability performance test: A group of children (usually 42-51 months old) are observed attempting to open a package. The test is conducted under supervision in a controlled environment. To pass, a specified percentage of children must be unable to open the package within a specified time period (usually 5 minutes). The package must also be functional and accessible to adults.
• Adult usability testing: Adults aged 50-70 must be able to open the packaging without tools or excessive effort. This ensures that the packaging is not so difficult to open that it would prevent normal use by the intended consumer.
• Mechanical and environmental testing: Packaging may be subjected to drop tests, compression tests, and environmental conditions (e.g., temperature and humidity) to ensure it maintains its integrity and safety performance.

The main benefits of compliance with the EN 862 standard are:

• Enhanced child safety: Prevents accidental poisoning or injury.
• Regulatory compliance: Helps manufacturers comply with EU and national regulations, avoiding legal penalties or recalls.
• Consumer trust: Demonstrates commitment to safety and responsible product design.
• Market access: A required or expected feature for products sold in many European countries.

Ultimately, the EN 862 standard is a vital tool in protecting children from potentially hazardous non-pharmaceutical products. By setting clear guidelines for child-resistant, non-reclosable packaging, it helps manufacturers create safer, more compliant products while maintaining ease of use for adults.

Our organization, which has been operating for many years and meticulously follows global developments in science and technology, conducts testing, measurement, and analysis in a wide range of areas for businesses across all sectors with a team of experienced professionals and a broad infrastructure. In this context, we also provide testing services in accordance with the EN 862 Packaging - Child-resistant packaging - Requirements and test procedures for non-reclosable packaging for non-pharmaceutical products.