Overview
EN ISO 28862:2023 - Packaging - Child-resistant packaging - Requirements and testing procedures for non-reclosable packages for non-pharmaceutical products (ISO 28862:2018) is a CEN-adopted ISO standard that specifies performance requirements and test methods for single‑use, non-reclosable packages designated as child‑resistant. The standard is intended for type approval of packaging designs (not for routine quality assurance) and excludes pharmaceutical packaging, which is covered by ISO 14375.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and intent
- Applies to non-reclosable, single‑use packaging for non‑pharmaceutical products.
- Intended for type approval of child‑resistant packaging only.
- Performance testing
- Specifies child tests and adult tests to assess whether packaging resists opening by children but remains accessible to adults.
- Test procedures include sample selection, preparation, sequential test steps and defined evaluation criteria (see Clauses 4–5).
- Test programme and reporting
- Details required sample sizes, test procedures, evaluation methods, and test report contents (Clause 6).
- Includes annexes with guidance for supervising child tests, normative test charts and suitability notes on sequential procedures (Annexes A–C).
- Design and innovation considerations
- Encourages development of mechanical test methods and objective physical measurements to reduce reliance on child panel testing.
- Notes responsibility for correct labelling and that child‑resistant packaging is a last line of defense.
Practical applications and users
Who uses EN ISO 28862:2023:
- Packaging designers and manufacturers developing single‑use, non‑reclosable child‑resistant formats (e.g., household chemicals, hazardous consumer products).
- Regulatory bodies and conformity assessors requiring type approval evidence for market access in CEN member countries.
- Testing laboratories performing child and adult panel tests and preparing compliance test reports.
- Product safety engineers and brands seeking to demonstrate that packaging meets recognized international performance criteria.
Practical benefits:
- Provides a standardized pathway to demonstrate child resistance for non‑pharmaceutical products.
- Offers consistent test methods for international recognition and market acceptance.
- Supports innovation by recommending mechanical test development to complement or reduce human panel testing.
Related standards
- ISO 14375 - Child‑resistant non‑reclosable packaging for pharmaceutical products (separate standard for pharmaceuticals).
- ISO/TC 122 (Packaging) - technical committee responsible for packaging performance standards.
Keywords: EN ISO 28862:2023, child‑resistant packaging, non‑reclosable packages, testing procedures, packaging standards, type approval, non‑pharmaceutical products, performance requirements.