Phenol is another name for hydroxybenzene, an organic compound, and is used in many industrial applications. Phenol is used in the manufacture of plastics, resins, nylons, detergents, drugs and many chemical products. However, high concentrations of phenol are toxic and may cause harmful effects when ingested through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion.

The potential presence and risks of phenol or free phenol in toys include:

1. **Toxic Effects**: Phenol can cause skin burns, respiratory problems, neurological effects and even death in high concentrations. Children are particularly at risk when exposed to phenol because their bodies can metabolize and detoxify less phenol than adults.

2. **Absorption Path**: Young children and infants often take toys into their mouths. This increases the risk of absorption of the chemical from toys containing phenol.

3. **Legal Restrictions**: Due to the potential toxic effects of phenol, many countries have limitations on phenol concentrations in toys. For example, the European Toy Safety Directive (EN 71-9 - 11) specifies specific limitations on the concentrations of chemicals (including phenol) used in toys.

4. **Alternative Substances**: Toy manufacturers can reduce these risks by using less toxic alternatives instead of phenol.

It is recommended that parents and consumers read the labels of toys carefully and check whether they contain phenol. Avoiding the purchase of toys containing phenol may be a safer option for children's health.

As a result, it is important that both manufacturers and consumers be aware of the potential risks of toys containing phenol.