The Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) today (October 25) alerted members of the public on the potential hazards posed by a folding cane seat and advised them to stop using it for safety's sake. Test results indicated that the product could pose a risk of falling down to users.
The C&ED recently conducted a test-buy operation on the product from a local retailer. Test results revealed that the seat of the samples bent and overturned during the seat static load test and sideway stability test. Therefore, the samples did not meet the required safety standard as stipulated under the European Standards for domestic use outdoor seating. Customs officers later seized from the retailer nine folding cane seats. A prohibition notice was served to the retailer on supplying the product.
A C&ED 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 regularly conducts spot checks on retailers and takes samples for safety tests. The department also regularly organises seminars for traders to promote awareness of consumer goods safety and assists them in observing relevant 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, Customs and Excise Department, 14/F, Customs Headquarters Building, 222 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong.
Ends/Tuesday, October 25, 2016
