Novelty items under scrutiny at Show

26/09/05
Consumer protection inspectors are patrolling the Perth Royal Show to ensure toys and novelty goods on sale are safe for children.
Consumer and Employment Protection Minister John Kobelke said officers, who had turned up 33 showbags of concern during inspections last month, were now concentrating on novelty items on sale at stalls.
Mr Kobelke said traders selling non-compliant products faced prosecution with penalties ranging from $20,000 for individuals to $100,000 for corporations.
"Each year we unfortunately find some toys that do not meet safety standards or their labelling is incorrect or misleading and have to be taken off sale," he said.
"Items of concern in the past have included a flashing dummy with a teat that easily comes off and a yoyo with elastic string, both of which could have choked children."
The Minister said, in addition to these items, Department of Consumer and Employment Protection product safety staff were keeping a close eye out for:

• weapons, guns and projectile toys;
• children's spring-loaded umbrellas;
• laser pointers;
• fashion sunglasses with incorrect labels; and
• novelty cigarette lighters without a child resistant mechanism.

Mr Kobelke said product safety staff last month inspected more than 250 showbags to ensure novelty items had the correct labelling, were not a choking hazard and met other strict safety requirements.
"The distributors of the 33 bags with items of concern have since rectified the problems," he said.
People with concerns about stall items or showbag contents should call 1300 30 40 54 or email consumer@docep.wa.gov.au.
Minister's office: 9222 9211