Published
A new national product safety guide has been released to help businesses weed out potentially dangerous or banned products before they are offered for sale.
South Australia's, Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Paul White said that the Product safety guide for business will be particularly useful for discount variety stores, ‘two dollar shops’,weekend market traders and retailers of baby goods and toys.
“All retailers and wholesalers must ensure that the products they sell comply with Australia’s national product safety laws, including mandatory safety standards,” said Mr White.
“This is extremely important, because it is about protecting consumers—particularly our very young children—from injury and even death.
“Product safety officers from South Australia Consumer and Business Services removed over 100 product lines of unsafe children’s toys and other products in 2011-12.
”We know businesses across South Australia value their customers’ safety, but we also know that many are not aware of the laws governing the sale of products.
“This new guide will provide retailers with critical information about mandatory standards, and banned items including toys, baby products, clothing, confectionery, furniture, swimming pools and bicycles.” said Mr White.
The guide has been produced in English, Vietnamese and Chinese and includes photographs of many of the currently banned products.
The guide has been developed in partnership between the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and state and territory consumer protection agencies.
To download or order the guide visit www.productsafety.gov.au
Tips for businesses:
- The onus is on you to ensure that the products you sell and distribute are safe.
- Refer to the Product Safety Guide 2012 for a current list of mandatory standards and banned products.
- Visit www.productsafety.gov.au for more information, and to sign up for email alerts on future bans and standards.
- Register at www.recalls.gov.au to receive email alerts about product recalls.
- For free, impartial information and advice contact Consumer and Business Services on 131 882.
Contact details
Media contact
For all media enquiries contact the 24-hour AGD Media Line - Mobile: 0422 007 069
Website: www.ocba.sa.gov.au
