Help stop the sale of potentially lethal electrical goods on online marketplaces

Electrical Safety First has led the way in calling for better regulation of electrical products sold online. Currently, it’s a simple process for third-party sellers to use online marketplaces to sell their goods, which can often be substandard or counterfeit ─ with little or no oversight by the online platform.

In the UK, online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay are not bound to the same laws as traditional high street retailers. This means that fake and other dangerous electrical products are being sold to unknowing customers. Containing sub-standard or counterfeit parts, they present a serious risk of fire or electric shock.

In multiple investigations, Electrical Safety First has found potentially lethal electrical goods easily available to purchase through online marketplaces ─ particularly those offered by third-party sellers on websites like Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Amazon Marketplace.

Many of us now purchase goods online, from the comfort of our own home.  We need to ensure that consumers can be confident that products bought online are as safe as those bought on the high street.  SparkSafe commends the work being done by Electrical Safety First.  If you haven’t already, you can show your support for change by signing Electrical Safety First’s petition here https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/stop-the-sale-of-dangerous-electrical-goods-on-online-marketplaces/