The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation (LGIRS) is sharing important advice for people buying and using electrical products this festive season.
The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation (LGIRS) is sharing important advice for people buying and using electrical products this festive season.
Decorative lights, electronic gifts and new gadgets are hallmarks of the WA summer, prompting tips from Building & Energy - the State's electrical safety regulator - and Consumer Protection.
Building and Energy Executive Director Daniel Kearney says non-compliant, damaged or incorrectly used electrical products can pose serious risks, including electric shock and fire.
Shoppers should be cautious about buying electrical equipment, including chargers and power supplies, from overseas because they may not comply with Australian standards.
"Anyone buying electrical appliances and equipment should make sure they have a regulatory compliance mark (RCM) - a tick inside a triangle. This shows that the electrical product meets Australian standards and has been independently approved for use in Australia," Mr Kearney said.
"Also check plug pins have an insulation layer that covers at least half the pin length. This protects against contact with live metal parts if the plug is not fully pushed into the socket outlet."
Festive lights are a favourite feature in many homes, but damaged or incorrectly used lights can cause electric shocks and fires. Building and Energy is aware of one electric shock incident in Western Australia involving decorative lighting already this holiday season. Consumers are encouraged to ensure their interior and exterior festive lights are safe, in good working order and compliant with Australian standards.
"Check for an RCM and follow the manufacturer's instructions, including whether lights, extension leads and power boards are suitable for outdoor placement," Mr Kearney said.
"Outdoor lights should have an ingress protection (IP) weatherproof rating. Before use, check that lights, cords and plugs are undamaged, untangled and working well, particularly if they have been in storage. Switching off the lights or electric Christmas trees is also recommended before going to bed or leaving the house."
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in phones, toys, eRideables and other gadgets, but they can pose serious fire risks if damaged, poorly made or misused.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake urges consumers to only buy products containing lithium-ion batteries from reputable suppliers and check them for damage regularly.
"If you notice signs like overheating, swelling, leaking or gas venting, stop using the product immediately," Ms Blake said.
"Always use the correct charger, unplug devices once they're fully charged, and charge batteries on a hard, cool surface away from flammable materials such as beds or carpets."
Button batteries, often found in small electronic items - including toys that light up and
make noise - can cause severe internal injuries if swallowed by children.
"When buying toys this Christmas, pay special attention to whether they are powered by button batteries, and if so, ensure the battery compartment is secure to prevent a potential tragedy," said the Commissioner.
Consider checking the latest product recalls including items with lithium-ion batteries and button batteries on the ACCC Product Safety website .
The key advice from Building and Energy and Consumer Protection:
- Look for a regulatory compliance mark (a tick inside a triangle) to show the appliance is approved for use in Australia.
- Check that your appliance plugs have insulated pins. This insulation helps prevent accidental contact with live metal parts if a plug is partially pulled out of a socket.
- Buy electrical equipment from a reputable supplier - be wary of buying products online as they may not comply with Australian safety standards.
- Ensure lights, extension leads and power boards are suitable for the intended use, including indoor or outdoor placement.
- Check that the lights, cords and plugs are undamaged, untangled and working well, particularly if they have been in storage.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not alter or modify festive lights.
- Check for any recalls on the ACCC Product Safety website .
For more information on electrical advice and product safety, visit the Building & Energy and Consumer Protection websites via www.lgirs.wa.gov.au .
