Product safety
Throughout the year we conduct surveys on various product categories to check for sharp edges, toxic material and other issues that would cause health and safety concerns.
Safety problems
Examples of common safety problems include:
- sharp edges or points on toys
- toys with small detachable parts which could choke
- badly designed or constructed electrical items
- toys with toxic metals such as lead in the paint
Reporting a product safety problem
If you have discovered a product safety problem, let us know. You can do this by letter, telephone, fax, or email. It will be helpful, but not essential, to retain any packaging, instructions, receipt and other relevant information.
If you have any queries, or would like to make a complaint, visit the Citizens Advice website or phone their helpline on 0808 223 1133
Product testing
We may arrange for products to be tested in a laboratory to see if they comply with safety standards. If they do not, we can bring this to the attention of the manufacturer and may even bring a prosecution in serious cases. Where we find unsafe goods on sale officers have the power to seize them and remove them from sale. Advice is given to local producers and importers on safety matters.
Product recalls
If there is a problem with the safety of a product, its manufacturer is responsible for making arrangements for its repair, replacement or refund.
To find out which products have been recalled by manufacturers and how to contact them, visit product recalls and alerts on GOV.UK.
Children’s toy safety
For advice on children's toy safety, visit the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website.
Page last updated: 1 November 2024
