Product Safety - Consumer Information

Product safety can be improved when everyone involved – in product regulation, manufacture, supply, sale, purchase, and use – works together and actively contributes to making sure that products are safe and are used safely.

What consumers can do

In the shop

• ask if there’s a standard - does the product meet the standard? If not, don’t buy it
• does it fit? - try it before you buy it!
• do you think it’s unsafe? - tell the shopkeeper why
• look at labels – do they say how to use and care for the product – and how not to use it?
• ask if you need any safety equipment to use the product safely.

At home

• read and follow all instructions and safety information before you put it together, install it, plug it in, or use it
• repair broken toys and furniture immediately
• provide adequate supervision of children using the product
• be aware of possible dangers of old or modified products
• use products only for their intended purpose, and in a safe environment especially when children are around
• check the condition of products regularly, and do any necessary maintenance immediately
• report any problems to the supplier, retailer, or the MAPSS team.

What if…

• it breaks through normal use? - Take the product back and ask for a refund or replacement
• it becomes unsafe? - Take the product back and ask for a refund or replacement
• you’re still unsatisfied after taking the product back? – Contact the MAPSS team
• there is a product safety recall? Stop using the product immediately, and respond according to the recall instructions.

What manufacturers, suppliers and retailers can do

• provide clear instructions for proper use
• train staff in safe and proper use so they can provide correct information to consumers
• be aware of and follow industry and safety standards
• incorporate safety into design
• develop product recall plans and procedures
• implement a quality assurance program which includes consumer feedback
• respond quickly to safety concerns.

What the government can do if there’s a safety problem

• establish mandatory safety standards and ensure compliance with them
• promote consumer awareness
• encourage research to improve safety
• facilitate solutions between consumers and suppliers, including:
• talking to the shopkeeper or supplier
• talking to the manufacturer
• suggesting modifications to make the product safe
• negotiate the removal of unsafe products from sale
• assist companies to recall unsafe products
• help develop voluntary standards.

If the problem is extremely serious, the Minister of Consumer Affairs can:

• recall unsafe products
• ban unsafe products
• make mandatory standards.