The metallic branches of artificial Christmas trees can potentially cause injuries (sharp ends). Safety regulations regarding artificial Christmas trees branches are defined under the French Decree n° 91-1175 of 13th November 1991. This safety requirement for the sharp ends of artificial Christmas tree states that “Artificial Christmas trees branches ends should be designed to avoid any harm or should be protected.”
With regards to marking the French Decree n° 91-1175 was modified by French Decree n° 2003-1123 of 23 of November 2003 which requires new specifications for labelling. The Decree specifically states that once natural or artificial Christmas trees, their branches, their floral arrangements as soon as they are covered with artificial snow or flocking should be carrying the following warning. “Keep away from live flame or any flammable objects such as candles for example. Fairy lights should always be functioning under human supervision.” The marking as well as the user guide for these products should always bear a marking representing an open flame.
If these products are sold without markings or user guide, a visible marking should always be available at the point of sale. This marking should include warning and pictogram.
With regards to safety testing, our laboratories in Hong-Kong and Vietnam, as well as France, can perform most of the mechanical tests required for Christmas trees. The Hong-Kong lab can also perform candle and candlestick protocol testing.
