Safety First

Unlike modular HO and N Gauge setups, these tables are meant to be physically played with...by children of all ages. The modules should be rugged and support the weight of several children who may be determined to stand on it when you turn your back for a minute. Child safety is the most important consideration, so it is emphasized here at the very beginning of project planning.

There are many safety guidelines for toys, playgrounds, cribs and such. It is essential that each modular segment be safe and secure. No element should poke, pinch, tangle, strangle, be swallowed or trap a head, hand or finger. Paint selection is also an obvious consideration - oil paints should be avoided, lead paints impair development and cadmium-based paints are toxic! Loose magnets and small broken pieces must also be watched for – if you buy off-brand trains from China this is a real concern.

Consult available online resources or child-safety experts as appropriate. A partial checklist appearing on multiple sites, including a safety sheet from CPSC, is shown above.