US CPSC Introduces Federal Safety Standard for Neck Float Toys
BAAR, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / January 08, 2026 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 191.25 to inform stakeholders of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) approval of a new mandatory consumer product safety standard for neck floats.
On December 15, 2025, the CPSC published a final rule establishing 16 CFR 1250.5 under the toy safety regulation to address drowning hazards associated with neck floats. The rule also adds neck floats to the CPSC’s Notice of Requirements and will take effect on June 15, 2026, applying to neck floats manufactured on or after that date.
The standard applies to neck floats intended for children up to and including four years of age for use in sinks, bathtubs, paddling pools and swimming pools. US Coast Guard-approved lifesaving devices, including neck-attached devices, are excluded from the scope.
The new requirements introduce specific performance criteria covering conditioning, minimum buoyancy, restraint systems and neck opening dimensions to reduce the risk of unintentional release and submersion. In addition, the rule mandates enhanced warning labels and instructions consistent with ANSI/NEMA Z535.4-2023, supplementing existing toy labeling requirements. Required warnings emphasize drowning risks, potential expansion of the neck opening during use and the need to inspect inflatable products for leaks.
SGS publishes SafeGuardS to help businesses stay informed of key regulatory developments. SafeGuardS 191.25 summarizes the implications of the new federal safety standard for manufacturers, importers and distributors of neck float toys supplied to the US market.
SGS Toy & Juvenile Product Services
SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children’s equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s Toy & Juvenile Product Services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Neck Floats Added to 16 CFR Toy Safety Requirements SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Ramiro Mantilla
Laboratory Supervisor – TJP, Hardlines
Tel: +1 (973) 575-5252
Piyush Shah
SGS Consumer and Retail Technical Director – Hardlines
Tel: +1 (973) 461-7953
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
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