Overview
ISO 28862:2018 specifies performance requirements and test methods for non-reclosable, single‑use child‑resistant packaging intended for non‑pharmaceutical products. It is a type‑approval standard (not a quality‑assurance procedure) that defines how to demonstrate a package is difficult for young children to open while remaining usable by adults. The standard covers testing protocols, sample preparation, evaluation criteria and reporting requirements.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to single‑use non‑reclosable packages (one or more individual units) for non‑pharmaceutical products. Pharmaceutical non‑reclosable packages are excluded (see related standards).
- Child test: Sequential panel testing with children aged 42–51 months (test groups up to 200, typically paired). A child is given a new, unprinted sample; if the child fails to open within 5 minutes a demonstration is given and a further 5 minutes allowed. A package is considered child‑resistant if the test chart passes into the acceptance zone or if:
- ≥ 80% of children cannot access a unit within 10 minutes, and
- ≥ 85% cannot access a unit within the first 5 minutes.
- Adult test (optional/required if a tool is provided at point of sale): Panel of 100 adults; after familiarization, at least 90% must access at least one unit within 1 minute (no demonstration).
- Sampling and preparation: Representative samples from the proposed production process; packages for child testing are presented unprinted and filled with an inert substitute product (no hazardous contents). Each participant receives a new package; integrity checks are required.
- Testing principles and reporting: Detailed sequential procedures, evaluation methods, and mandatory contents for the test report are defined. The standard encourages development of mechanical test methods to reduce reliance on child panels.
Applications and users
ISO 28862:2018 is intended for:
- Packaging designers and manufacturers developing single‑use, non‑reclosable child‑resistant formats (e.g., for household chemicals, hazardous consumer goods).
- Regulatory bodies and compliance teams performing type approval of packaging.
- Test laboratories conducting child and adult panel testing and preparing conformity reports.
- Brand owners and fillers choosing certified child‑resistant packaging solutions.
Practical benefits include demonstrable child‑resistance for market access, reduced accidental ingestion risk, and a standardized basis for design validation and regulatory approval.
Related standards
- ISO 14375 - Child‑resistant non‑reclosable packaging for pharmaceutical products (separate standard for medicines).
- EN 862 - European document that informed ISO 28862 development (CEN origin).