Plastic mats bought in Hong Kong are safe to use, despite health warnings issued in Taiwan. The Customs & Excise Department has conducted checks on mats available in Hong Kong, and found that chemical levels are within European standards.

The checks were initiated after 13 models of plastic mats on sale in Taiwan were found to contain toxic substances. The department has not found any of these mats on sale in Hong Kong so far.

In analysing the mats, the department made reference to European Council Directive 76/769 which specifies that benzene is not permitted in toys or parts of toys in concentrations in excess of 5mg/kg (5ppm) of the weight of the toy, or toy part.

Consumers are advised to unpack plastic mats and expose them in the open air for at least a week before using them indoors. Good air circulation should also be maintained when using the mats indoor. For enquiries call the Customs hotline 2815 7711.