The Customs and Excise Department today (August 23) alerted members of the public to stop using a model of folding chair, three models of folding stool and a model of four-leg stool that pose potential hazards.
Customs officers have recently conducted spot checks on furniture retailers and sent samples of various models of chairs and stools to the Government Laboratory for testing their mechanical properties as furniture - strength and durability in accordance with the Chinese Standard.
The samples of a model of folding chair, three models of folding stool and a model of four-leg stool were deformed upon testing against specified loading forces, and would possibly pose risks of falls to users.
Customs has taken immediate action to seize a total of five folding chairs and 68 folding stools. Prohibition notices were served to respective suppliers. Investigation and surveillance on the market are continuing.
A Customs spokesman said, "To ensure that the consumer goods in the market comply with the general safety requirements under the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance, the department will continue to conduct spot checks on retailers and draw samples for safety tests. The department will also organise seminars for the trade regularly to promote their awareness of consumer goods safety and help them observe the requirements of the Ordinance."
Under the Ordinance, it is an offence to supply, manufacture or import into Hong Kong consumer goods unless the goods comply with the general safety requirements for consumer goods. The maximum penalty for the offence is a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on first conviction, and $500,000 and imprisonment for two years on subsequent conviction.
To report unsafe consumer goods, please call the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or write to the Consumer Protection Bureau (1), C&ED, 14/F, Customs Headquarters Building, 222 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong.
Ends/Friday, August 23 2013
