The Dangers of Using USB Style Chargers

USB style chargers are now common place among households and workplaces.  While they provide the convenience and often speed of charging, care must be taken when purchasing such chargers.

In 2014, a safety alert was issued by the Department of Fair Trading after the death of a consumer where an unapproved USB charger was implicated.

All electrical products sold in NSW must comply with the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2004 and its regulations to ensure they are designed and manufactured to meet Australian Standards.

Numerous USB chargers have been seized and taken out of circulation simply because they did not comply with the Electrical Safety Act and therefore posed a serious threat of fire and/or electrocution.

Chargers that do not comply and do not carry the correct approval marks are a serious safety hazard unfortunately the price of these chargers make them an attractive buy for many people.

When buying a USB style Charger, ensure the unit complies with the Electrical Safety Act and carries the proper compliance marks.

If in doubt, do not buy it!

And if you have chargers in your workplace or home and are unsure, do not use them until you've had them looked at by licensed electrician.

For more information or if you'd like to check and see if your charger complies, contact Simon Caddy Electrical on 0400 110081.