It is well known, the worst accidents often happen at home. And the recent publication of the Fraud Directorate (DGCCRF) concerning its annual control of electrical appliances is not to reassure households! In its report released in the spring, the administration indeed reveals that of the 150 products examined in 2018, 52% were found to be non-compliant and 37% were considered dangerous.
Among other articles analyzed, four categories were particularly targeted by state agents, namely power supplies, steam devices, hair care devices and LED lights. However, beyond the shortcomings relating to consumer information, such as the lack of instructions for use in French for example, it is above all the non-compliance with the regulations relating to the safety of electrical products which has what worry users. Following inspections by the DGCCRF, more than 70,000 products were subject to withdrawals or recalls.
Beware of low cost shippers
At the top of the list, it is now easy to find a universal charger or adapter on the market to replace the one supplied with your smartphone, your computer, your hair clipper or your epilator. Except that these power supplies, sometimes sold at very low prices, can be the cause of overheating of certain devices, overvoltage, or even serious electric shocks when the equipment is not properly insulated. While more than half of the chargers tested have been found to be non-compliant, the DGCCRF recommends being vigilant.
In the case of steam devices such as irons, steam generators and other wallpaper strippers, the risk of burns is added to the electrical hazard. As for hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons, they can be excessively hot or even overheat, while LED luminaires have insufficient insulation, non-compliant wiring and lack of waterproofing for those intended for the bathroom. .
- Investigation
- Smartphone
- Consumption
- Home appliance