Safety

How Drums for Schools ensures all instruments meet rigorous safety standards for use in schools.

Safe for children of 3 years and older

Our instruments are designed and made to be safe for use by players aged 3 and older, and we have carried out extensive testing of all the materials used to ensure they are safe and non-toxic.

Please note that our instruments are not toys and should not be used with children under the age of 3 because of the risk of small parts becoming loose and potentially presenting a choking hazard. When using instruments with young players aged 3 to 5, please always follow our Good Practice Guide (click here to download).

Good Practice Guide

Some History

Until April 2018 we had been supplying musical instruments and kits to all age groups, including the under 3s. However, following a report in April 2018 of a young child swallowing a seed from one of our shakers, we carried out a full safety review of all our instruments for younger players and, following advice from Trading Standards, recalled the Owl Sound and Musical Baby Bonding Kit and changed the age rating for all instruments to "3 Years or over".

To download a PDF of the complete listing of potential risks identified in 2018, please click here.

What We Test For

  • Materials — non-toxic finishes, no small parts that could detach, rounded edges
  • Durability — instruments are stress-tested to withstand enthusiastic classroom use
  • Age-appropriateness — size, weight, and playing technique are matched to the age group
  • Compliance — all products meet relevant UK and EU safety directives for toys and educational equipment

CE and UKCA Marking

Our instruments carry the appropriate CE and UKCA markings where required. We hold test reports and declarations of conformity for our product range — these are available on request.

Risk Assessments

We provide guidance notes to help schools complete their own risk assessments for music lessons. If you need specific documentation for your school's policies, get in touch and we will help.

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