Hong Kong Customs today (February 14) announced that it conducted spot checks on walking sticks and walking stick umbrellas in the past two weeks and ordered six retailers to store in specified places 36 suspected unsafe walking sticks of five models and 38 suspected unsafe walking stick umbrellas of one model.
The walking sticks and walking stick umbrellas were suspected to be unsafe due to their structural and strength deficiencies which might pose the risk of falls to users, thus contravening the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance (CGSO).
Customs will arrange for safety tests on the walking sticks and the walking stick umbrella.
Customs will continue to conduct spot checks with a view to protecting consumers' safety.
Under the CGSO, 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 upon conviction 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.
Members of the public with information relating to suspected unsafe consumer goods may 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 Pont, Hong Kong.
Ends/Wednesday, February 14, 2018
