China’s mandatory national standard for musical instruments, GB 28489-2022 officially came into force on January 1, 2024. The new regulation supersedes the previous standard, GB/T 28489-2012, and establishes requirements for the content of harmful substances in musical instruments and introduces updated testing methods.
Musical Instruments' Harmful Substance Limit Requirements
Comprising of 8 comprehensive chapters and encompassing the entire supply chain of the musical instrument industry, the new standard applies not only to instruments but also accessories and packaging.
They are classified into 2 distinct categories:
- Category A: instruments and accessories that come into direct contact with the player’s mouth under normal usage
- Category B: instruments, accessories and indoor packaging that, while not in direct contact with the player’s mouth, is still accessible under normal usage
Below lists out the harmful substances covered:
- Phthalates
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
- Migratable elements e.g. Lead, Chromium, Cadmium & Mercury
- Benzene compounds, Total volatile organic compounds, and Formaldehyde
- Aromatic amine dyes
- Tetrachlorophenol (TeCP)
- Pentachlorophenol (PCP)
- Natural radionuclides
Implementation Timeline of the New Standard
Prior to January 1, 2024: Products manufactured or imported are granted a transition period of 1 year. Compliance is obligatory from January 1, 2025 the latest.
For those manufactured or imported after January 1, 2024, they must comply with this standard with immediate effect, before being placed onto the market.
This article is originally published by SGS:
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