In this report

Reports:

Our advice

There is clear evidence that unsafe electrical products are being sold.
We urge Energy Safety to continue its audit programmes - particularly of online auction sites - and to actively pursue transgressors.
We support the move to allow Energy Safety to issue infringement notices and instant fines. The sooner this system is in place, the better.
We would like to see the development of a single, clearly identifiable New Zealand safety "mark" that could be applied to products - even using a sticker - with appropriate penalties for misuse. Consumers need a simple and direct way to identify safe products.

Be wary of any low-cost plug-in appliance.
Make sure the voltage rating of any mains-powered appliance you buy includes 230 volts. Anything else may be unsafe.
Don't buy products that don't have the New Zealand flat-pin plug.
For three-pin plugs, two of the pins should have metal visible for only half the length of the pins. The other (earth) pin should be fully metal (see picture above right).
For two-pin plugs, both pins should have metal visible for only half the length of the pins - and the appliance must display the "Double Insulated" symbol (pictured right).
If you see suspicious products, get the relevant product and seller details and advise Energy Safety.