The LEGO Group is the world’s sixth largest toy manufacturer. With the recent recalls from major toy companies, like Fisher-Price and Mattel, consumers can’t help but wonder if toys from LEGO are safe. Or will they be up next on the recall list?
Where are LEGO toys produced?
Until 2006, all LEGO bricks and other toys were produced at one of three manufacturing plants. These plants were located in Denmark, The Czech Republic and the United States. In 2006, LEGO began outsourcing some production through a company called Flextronics. LEGO began phasing out production at their Enfield, CT plant and moved North American production to a Flextronics plant in Mexico.
LEGO is moving production of bricks away from the Denmark location to Flextronics plants in Eastern Europe. Flextronics will also be taking over the manufacturing process at LEGO’s Czech Republic facility. LEGO will eventually outsource up to 80% of all its production through Flextronics. LEGO Technic and Bionicle manufacturing will remain at the Denmark location.
The LEGO Group has historically had an intense quality control process. They will be working closely with Flextronics to ensure that these same high standards are met. The LEGO Group lays out their product safety requirements in an internal product safety handbook.
All LEGO toys are subject to a thorough testing process. New products are tested continuously based on standards that have been laid out through legislation and internal guidelines. However, the LEGO Group takes testing a step further. They try to imagine how each toy will be used by the consumer and test based on that. All LEGO products are tested for safety during both recommended play and rough play. LEGO ensures that each toy is appropriate for the given age classification and is careful to label the boxes correctly.
The LEGO Group ensures that no health risks are associated with the materials used to make LEGO toys. They collect information on all materials to ensure that all products are safe for both adults and children.
Has There Been a LEGO Recall?
LEGO has had two recalls in their 75 year history. Both recalls were voluntary and were not related to the current round of recalls in the media.
In 2006, LEGO voluntarily recalled the LEGO Explore Super Truck (product #3509). This was a large plastic truck that was sold with LEGO Duplo blocks. The company determined that there was a risk of the wheels falling off of the truck which could expose the metal axel. In 1998, the LEGO Primo Ladybird Rattle (product # 2093) was voluntarily recalled.
The LEGO Group closely studies product recalls made by other companies. They strive to learn from other toy company’s mistakes and prevent repeating the same mistakes. LEGO also has a Product Safety Recall Team in place to determine possible safety issues.
LEGO products remain a good choice for toy selection. Parents of LEGO obsessed children can rest assured that these toys are subject to high quality control standards and are manufactured in reputable countries. LEGO toys will continue to inspire children and adults for years to come.
