Consumer safety

19 May 2021 - Product Safety Alert 1 - Small, High-Powered Magnetic Products - The Office for Product Safety and Standards has undertaken an investigation into small high-powered magnets in products where they can easily be swallowed and which may appeal to small children and can pose a general safety risk to consumers. Consumers, local authority trading standards services and businesses are asked to be alert to the potential dangers of accessible small magnets in products and take action, where appropriate.More information about product safety alerts.

In general, Business Compliance carry out inspections, investigate complaints, take samples and give limited advice to businesses.

There are dozens of laws about product safety so only the most common ones are listed here. For more information go to the Business Companion website and use the search facility at the top of the page on this website which also contains information on the changes in legislation for consumer products following the EU Exit.

  • Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988.
  • Toys (Safety) Regulations 1995.
  • Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994.
  • Plugs and Sockets Etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994.
  • Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations 1995.
  • Bunk Beds (Entrapment Hazard) (Safety) Regulations 1987.
  • Cosmetic Product (Safety) Regulations 2008.

General product safety regulations 2005 cover consumer product safety in the UK. As well as making sure products are safe, they place certain responsibilities on producers (those who manufacture or import) and distributors (others in the supply chain such as wholesalers and retailers).