Short answer
Wooden pencils intended for EU schools must comply with EN71-3 standards concerning the safety and migration of heavy metals. They also often require FSC certification for responsible sourcing of wood and need to ensure non-toxic materials are used throughout the pencil production process.
Why this happens
- EN71 Compliance: Ensures safety regarding the presence of heavy metals in materials used by children.
- FSC Certification: Promotes responsible forestry management and chain-of-custody tracing.
- Material Safety: Involves the use of non-toxic coatings and safe materials in all pencil components.
What to do (OEM-ready steps)
- Conduct EN71-3 tests to verify acceptable levels of heavy metal migration in pencils.
- Source FSC-certified wood and maintain complete chain-of-custody documentation.
- Ensure all used coatings and adhesives are non-toxic and suitable for children.
- Keep comprehensive compliance documentation for EN71 and material safety.
- Assess materials for erasers and ferrules to ensure they meet safety standards.
Example in factory practice
In a pencil manufacturing facility for the EU market, production begins with the acquisition of FSC-certified wood, and complete documentation is maintained for traceability. The graphite core is securely bonded using water-based adhesives to ensure safety. The wooden parts are thoroughly dried to prevent any warping, maintaining their quality. Finished pencils undergo testing for heavy metal levels to ensure compliance with EN71-3 standards. All coatings applied to pencils are checked for non-toxicity and compliance with child safety guidelines.