Product recalls |
Under some circumstances the Australian and Queensland Governments can order the recall of a product that fails to meet a mandatory standard or if the product is unsafe.
All Australian governments can also issue public warning notices that the safety of particular goods is being investigated or warn of risks associated with the product.
Manufacturers and suppliers tend to voluntarily initiate most product safety recalls when they become aware of a defect in the product.
You should recall consumer goods that you have supplied if you realise they:
- may injure someone, or using the goods in a foreseeable way (including misuse) may injure someone
- do not comply with a safety standard
- are banned.
It is essential that businesses keep up to date with product recall information. You can visit the Product Safety Australia website or the Product Safety Recalls website.
Conducting a recall
To ensure your customers are not placed at risk, in the event of a recall you should provide:
- a clear description of the product to be recalled, including model numbers
- details of the problem
- dates when the product was supplied
- the number of products supplied
- details about where the product was supplied
- details of what consumers should do with the product
- contact and return details.
For more information on how to conduct a successful recall, visit the Product Safety Recalls website.
If you sell a recalled product, you could suffer negative publicity and loss of income from holding onto large quantities of unsaleable stock. Consumers could sue you if they suffer and injury, and you could be fined up to $220 000 (individuals) or $1 100 000 (corporations) if you sell a recalled product.
Last reviewed 21/12/2011 |
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