The EU's Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC) ensures that toys sold in the EU are safe for children under 14. It sets some of the world's strictest standards for physical, mechanical, flammability, electrical, and chemical properties, such as restricting heavy metals and harmful chemicals. Manufacturers must conduct a safety assessment, maintain technical documentation, and affix a CE marking to declare compliance. The directive's goal is to minimize all potential risks to children during play.