Provincial inspection offices of the Trade Inspection together with UOKiK put 30 swing models under scrutiny.
Black series on playgrounds: Laboratory versus manufacturers
Experts examined constructions from March to May 2026, testing, among others, traditional boards, bucket swings and the hugely popular stork nests. Products mainly came from China (15 models) and Poland (12 models). Result? 14 of 30 models were disqualified in the laboratory due to physical and mechanical defects.
The most serious technical failures are a straight path to tragedy. Constructions massively failed safety tests. In the tested models, removable assembly knots were found that can easily unravel during play. Additionally, the norm became too thin ropes, too low-placed safety bars (threatening ejection) and fatal quality, cracking constructions.
The most alarming is the presence of gaps and openings where a child's head or neck could get caught, leading to suffocation. Manufacturers of defective swings include: JULA AB, Maksik Sp. z.o.o, Zakłady Produkcyjno-Handlowe “Kimet”, and Mochtoys. The full list of manufacturers and products is available in the UOKiK report on their site.
See also: UOKiK hits a mass of companies in Poland! Harmful substances were found in their products.
Documentary chaos, or certificates with a wink
Construction problems are one thing, but formal negligence in the toy market is a whole other marketing league. 10 of 30 swing models had glaring labeling errors. The most common sin of importers and manufacturers was the lack of a conformity declaration or missing mandatory CE mark – found in 8 cases.
The CE mark is not a decoration but a legal declaration that the product meets the stringent EU standards.
In 7 models, reliable user instructions and clear warnings in Polish were missing, so parents have no idea about the risk and proper assembly.
Additionally, in 5 cases, the products did not include any manufacturer or importer data at all, which basically prevents consumers from enforcing their rights in case of equipment failure. In total, considering both technical and formal mishaps, inspectors questioned 21 of 30 swing models.
See also: Price conspiracy in Polish stores. UOKiK President: “Five years of overpaying.” Check if you lost money.
Harsh penalties for business and a red light for parents
UOKiK does not intend to use a preferential tariff. For 13 entrepreneurs, administrative proceedings can be initiated that may hit hard on their pockets. Regulations are ruthless: introducing a toy that does not meet requirements carries a fine up to 100,000 PLN. Lack of EU CE marking carries a risk of sanctions up to 20,000 PLN, while smaller formal non‑compliances can cost up to 10,000 PLN. The most dangerous products go directly to the EU Safety Gate system.
For the conscious consumer, this report is a clear signal – do not trust brands at face value. Before buying a swing, absolutely verify the presence of a permanent CE mark, completeness of instructions, and stability of knots (they should be absolutely unbreakable without tools). It is also worth regularly checking the technical condition of devices on public and private playgrounds. Our children’s safety cannot be compromised for a low price.
See also: Auction house staff themselves raised art prices. UOKiK revealed unfair practices.
Source: Office of Competition and Consumer Protection
