New mandatory button battery safety and information laws come into effect today, with retailers being warned they are in the crosshairs.
“These world-first standards are a critical step in helping prevent potentially life-threatening injuries to children,” ACCC Deputy Chair Rickard said.
“Tragically, three children have died and one child a month is seriously injured from swallowing or ingesting button batteries.”
Under the new laws:
- Products must have secure battery compartments to stop kids from accessing the batteries.
- Button batteries must be supplied in child-resistant packaging.
- Products and batteries must have additional warnings and emergency advice on the batteries, packaging and instructions.
- Suppliers must ensure products have been compliance tested.
“Inspectors will be out looking for unsafe products both online and in stores such as discount retailers, variety shops, major retailers, pharmacies, newsagents and at large events,” Rickard said.
“Businesses are on notice that serious penalties may apply if we find unsafe or non-compliant products.”
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