Commenting on the Which? consumer group call for new laws to protect people from dangerous products Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First Lesley Rudd commented:
“While we recognise some online marketplaces have taken measures in recent years to introduce new ways to protect consumers it is clear self-regulation is falling short. Our own investigations at Electrical Safety First continue to find seriously dangerous electrical goods for sale on these sites ranging from popular beauty appliances that pose serious fire risks to Apple look-a-like chargers missing vital safety components. The risk of electric shock, fire or even death being caused by these substandard products will remain a risk until action is taken.
A consumer shift to online shopping, the tempting convenience online marketplaces provide, in conjunction with being mostly unregulated, has created the perfect storm for potentially dangerous electrical products to end up in people’s homes.
The Government must take action to ensure that these online platforms are mandated to ensure what is sold via their sites is safe.”
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For more information please contact:
Joshua Drew T: 07864009875 E: joshua.drew@electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk