Energy group warns about popular home fixture from emerging retail brand
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As the cost of living continues to climb, Australians are actively looking for good bargains.
Sometimes, it's easy to be tempted by the low prices offered by discount stores.
However, a recent warning highlighted the potential dangers of opting for cheaper options, especially for products we place in our homes.
Energy Safe Victoria issued an urgent warning to consumers who purchased a specific lamp from the new retailer, Panda Mart.
The warning came after a shocking discovery at the recently opened Panda Mart store in Melbourne.
Authorities found faulty electrical products inside the store that could be fatal when unattended.
Compliance officers found exposed wires on the lamps during an inspection.
These exposed wires could cause an electric shock or, even worse, death by electrocution if touched while the lamp is on.
Some of the lamps had wiring covers that could be easily removed, presenting a clear and present danger to anyone using them.
However, the lamps are not the sole reason for the warning.
Authorities also saw study desks with unsafe socket outlets.
These outlets could also have exposed live wires and parts.
'I cannot emphasise how important this is. These lamps are potentially deadly,' Energy Safe Victoria's Chief Executive Officer, Leanne Hughson, stated.
It's a reminder that regulatory compliance marks are essential and should be considered when buying electric products.
This mark should be a guarantee that products meet safety standards.
This was not the first time Panda Mart has been under scrutiny.
Eight days prior to this incident, authorities raided the store and seized hundreds of potentially life-threatening products, including baby toys and cosmetics.
These products allegedly failed Australia's safety standards.
Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich pointed out that businesses must ensure the items they sell are safe and meet the required standards.
Panda Mart, a retailer that originated in South Africa, boasts over 50,000 cheap household products, mainly sourced from China.
The retailer aimed to compete with other low-cost retailers in the country, like Kmart.
However, this incident raised questions about the actual cost of these low prices.
If you or someone you know has purchased one of these lamps or any items from Panda Mart, stop using the product immediately and contact the store for returns or refunds.
Have you ever encountered a dangerous product sold at a discount? How did you handle the situation? Sharing your experiences can help others stay safe and avoid similar pitfalls, so please share them with us in the comments below.
Sometimes, it's easy to be tempted by the low prices offered by discount stores.
However, a recent warning highlighted the potential dangers of opting for cheaper options, especially for products we place in our homes.
Energy Safe Victoria issued an urgent warning to consumers who purchased a specific lamp from the new retailer, Panda Mart.
The warning came after a shocking discovery at the recently opened Panda Mart store in Melbourne.
Authorities found faulty electrical products inside the store that could be fatal when unattended.
Authorities seized multiple products from Panda Mart due to safety concerns. Image Credit: YouTube/9 News Australia
Compliance officers found exposed wires on the lamps during an inspection.
These exposed wires could cause an electric shock or, even worse, death by electrocution if touched while the lamp is on.
Some of the lamps had wiring covers that could be easily removed, presenting a clear and present danger to anyone using them.
However, the lamps are not the sole reason for the warning.
Authorities also saw study desks with unsafe socket outlets.
These outlets could also have exposed live wires and parts.
'I cannot emphasise how important this is. These lamps are potentially deadly,' Energy Safe Victoria's Chief Executive Officer, Leanne Hughson, stated.
It's a reminder that regulatory compliance marks are essential and should be considered when buying electric products.
This mark should be a guarantee that products meet safety standards.
This was not the first time Panda Mart has been under scrutiny.
Eight days prior to this incident, authorities raided the store and seized hundreds of potentially life-threatening products, including baby toys and cosmetics.
These products allegedly failed Australia's safety standards.
Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich pointed out that businesses must ensure the items they sell are safe and meet the required standards.
Panda Mart, a retailer that originated in South Africa, boasts over 50,000 cheap household products, mainly sourced from China.
The retailer aimed to compete with other low-cost retailers in the country, like Kmart.
However, this incident raised questions about the actual cost of these low prices.
If you or someone you know has purchased one of these lamps or any items from Panda Mart, stop using the product immediately and contact the store for returns or refunds.
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