Introduction
Experts in this field are usually human factor specialists who have focused their studies on the safety of toys. Toys, such as model trains, jump ropes, dolls houses, or soft toys, are generally used by children and therefore require different measures to ensure safety to those required by products used by adults. Ergonomics relates to the effect of certain activities on the body, in this case, the effect that toys can have, such as sharp edges, choking hazards, or rough surfaces amongst others. There is a real risk that users of toys will be injured if proper ergonomics are not observed, and the primary customer base being children complicates and raises the importance of these considerations.
Some of the consequences of poor ergonomics can be very detrimental – from severe injury to even death. Depending on the age of the toy users, special safety features may be required. The toys must be childproof and lacking in any potentially damaging features. Chemical makeup is also important as children may stick toys in their mouths or chew on them, so they should be made of a non-toxic materials. All toys must meet the strict government manufacturing standards to ensure the safety of each user.
Ergonomics expertise in this area is usually sought to promote the well-being of the user of the toy, and to ensure safe practices are being promoted and enforced during manufacturing and design phases. Protecting users in this way both safeguards their personal health and the interests of the toy maker, protecting them from legal action.
Experts in this area may come from a variety of backgrounds. Some will be trained ergonomists, some are WH&S experts, or even engineers focused on material and chemical safety. They may also come from a medical background, including paediatricians to doctors specialising in toxicology or child psychologists. The specific specialisation and background needed in your toy safety expert will be determined by the matter which requires examination.
At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.
Expertise in Action
Experts in the ergonomics of toy safety can be called upon to assist in cases relating to design and manufacturing of toys, enforcement and creation of safety measures, the ill effects of chemical exposure and injuries sustained due to improper toy ergonomics.
Sample Reports
For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.
Cost
The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:
- The need for a view or inspection of a location
- The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
- Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
- Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype
