Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has extended its support to the nationwide
demand for action against the sale of faulty phone chargers following the
electrocution of a woman at her home on the New South Wales central coast last
month. The 28-year-old was found dead with burns to her ears and chest caused
by a dodgy phone charger.
After this incident, there has been a steady increase in public pressure
for authorities to take swift action against any company or individual caught
selling illegal electrical products. MEA spokesperson Andrew Bailey explains
that these products do not meet safety standards, and can cause electrocution,
as well as serious damage to other electrical devices.
Most homes have at least three or four different types of chargers used
for smart phones and laptop computers. According to Mr Bailey, consumers must buy
these electrical products only from an accredited dealer instead of discount
stores or from online deals. While these discounts may initially save a few
dollars, buyers are only risking their own lives as well as the lives of their loved
ones.
The cheap, illegal versions are made from low quality plastic, which can
melt, and many have no insulation on plug pins or an approval mark, making them
extremely dangerous.
MEA advises consumers to buy approved chargers that adhere to Australian
standards, and carry Australia’s C-Tick electrical compliance label, usually
found near the plug pins.
