Product Safety for Residents |
Many people are injured each year due to faulty consumer goods. The aim of the Consumer Protection team is to protect consumers against the supply of dangerous goods which are intended for private use.
Environmental Health Officers within the Consumer Protection team investigates complaints relating to products that may be unsafe. Our aim is to identify any possible safety defects and to remove any unsafe products from sale.
What should I look for when buying goods?
When purchasing goods, you should follow “The Consumer Code”:-
• Only purchase goods from a reputable supplier/shop
• Examine goods to see if they carry any safety symbols or signs, e.g. CE mark (this should be found on ALL toys, electrical products and gas appliances),
Kitemark, Cigarette/Match resistant label on furniture.
• Read all warnings carefully and follow operating instructions
• Keep receipts as proof of purchase
• Only use goods or equipment for the purpose for which they are intended
If in doubt or for advice, contact the Team in the Environmental Health Section.
What should I do if I think that I have bought an unsafe product?
Contact the Team in the Environmental Health Section. The officer may wish to examine the product. It will be useful if you still have the receipt or proof of purchase.
The product or similar products may be sent for testing.
The complaint procedure may take several months to complete. Any subsequent action taken by Environmental Health will relate to consumer safety issues and not to attaining compensation for the complainant. This is a matter that can be dealt with through your own solicitor.
Remember that we only deal with unsafe goods. For complaints about counterfeit or faulty goods or false/misleading descriptions, telephone Consumerline T. 028 9025 3900.
For further information you can contact us in person or in writing at:
Consumer Protection Team
Environmental Health Section
Antrim Borough Council
Antrim Civic Centre
50 Stiles Way
Antrim
BT41 2UB
T: 028 9446 3113
F: 028 9448 1319
Links to Relevant Documents
Links to Related Websites
Trading Standards
Which Magazine
Royal Society for the Preventation of Accidents
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