24 Nov 2015

The BBC Fake Britain programme team chose Intertek's Leicester laboratory to film a programme that examines the safety of alleged counterfeit toys, broadcast this week.

The Intertek experts were filmed putting the toys through a series of standard safety tests, including flammability, durability and electrical safety tests, which are required to pass the Toy Safety Directive. Additional tests were conducted by Leatherhead-based electrical testing specialist Ray Jefferis who also took part in the filming.

At the end of the testing, the Leicester-based Intertek expert team, who  provide toy safety testing for many of the world's best known brands, retailers and manufacturers, were able to report whether the counterfeit toys had complied with the EN 71 Toy Safety Directive.  

Intertek's Dr. David Elks who appeared in the programme said, "The film crew were surprised at the rigorousness of the tests set by the Toy Safety Directive, which ranged from setting fire to the toys to pulling them apart. However, I reminded them of the last time they had tried to negotiate with a three year old – and they understood."

Retail Services Director UK & Eire, Christine Smith said: "Intertek' s global expertise in toy testing, inspection and certification means we are perfectly positioned to support programmes like BBC Fake Britain in their bid to keep the UK safe from the dangers of counterfeit toys."

Watch the programme (available in the UK only)

For further information, please contact:  
Donna Paterson,Tel: 0116 296 1574 / Email: Donna.Paterson@intertek.com
Joanne Merriweather, UK PR, Tel: 07786 525390 / Email: Joanne.Merriweather@intertek.com

Intertek is a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide. From auditing and inspection, to testing, training, advisory, quality assurance and certification, Intertek adds value for its customers by helping improve the quality and safety of their products, assets and processes. With a network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 38,000 people in more than 100 countries, Intertek supports companies' success in the global marketplace, by helping customers to meet end users' expectations for safety, sustainability, performance, integrity and desirability in virtually any market worldwide. Visit www.intertek.com.