It is known that Disney has been conducting studies over the past few years about the safety of pin trading and exposing sharp metal objects around guests. Some safety advocates believe the rubber Mickey head backing just isn't enough and that more strict safety procedures must be put in place. One source is quoted as saying "pin trading is inherently unsafe. Look, we took away the plastic straws and lids at the Animal Kingdom for the safety of the animals. What are we saying to our kids? A gorilla's well being is more important than yours."
The Disney merchandise team has been looking into alternatives to sharp post backed pins including Velcro, magnets and a peel and stick adhesive Opponents argue that the alternatives would limit the surfaces you can stick a pin on and would also create the need to purchase additional media to display your pins. Purist argue that pins without pin posts just wouldn't be pins.
In the meantime, guests have been told they can continue to trade pins with each other at their own risk as long as they are outside of Disney property. Also, all Cast Members at pin selling locations at the Disney parks have been instructed not to allow guests to handle pins off the rack. They are to directly gather and bag the pins guests wish to purchase until further notice.
