BRUSSELS, June 12 (Xinhua) -- Safety standards for certain child care products sold in the European Union (EU) are set to be strengthened as EU member states are expected to give a green light to two new rules.

    The two new child safety standards relate to "childproof" locking devices for windows and balcony doors and child bathing articles. There are currently no EU standards for these articles.

    They will ensure that window and balcony door locking devices are fully "childproof" as well as raising overall safety standards.

    Figures showed that accidental falls from heights such as windows or balconies represent a leading cause of death or brain or skeletal damage for children below 5 years.

    Under the new standards, locking devices for windows and balcony doors should be designed to reduce or prevent accidents by blocking the opening of a door to a certain limited position and "childproofing" the lock so it cannot be opened by a child of less than 4 years old.

    For nursery bathing articles, for example, bath seats for very young babies, the standards will improve the stability and safety requirements and impose new clear warnings for carers.

    The commission said there is extensive evidence worldwide of accidents and injuries in early childhood associated with nursery products.

    The new standards will introduce improved stability and resistance requirements to minimize the risk of "tipping over" if the child leans in any direction or tries to stand or push the product.

    It will also require clearer and more visible warnings and instructions to consumers, on the package, on the product and at the point of sale.