MAKE sure you're checking for these important labels when you shop so you don't end up buying shoddy or dangerous products.
You’ve probably seen lots of these labels and symbols before, but many people don’t know what they mean or why they’re there at all.
Sometimes they're on the packaging, while other times they're on the label.
But, they have a very important purpose, and knowing what they mean could save you from buying something that isn’t safe.
These labels and symbols are especially important when buying secondhand goods, or if you’re buying products from an unfamiliar retailer.
While all new products should meet minimum safety standards, older products may not have been built to that standard.
If a product doesn't have one of these marks that doesn't automatically mean it is unsafe or dangerous.
But checking for these symbols on the products you buy ensures that you're getting a good deal.
BSI Kitemark™
The BSI Kitemark™ is one of the most recognised quality symbols that can be found on all kinds of products from crash helmets and cooking appliances to smoke alarms.
It is also sometimes used by service providers in the electrical installation, vehicle repair, and window installation trades.
To use the mark, products or services must undergo regular testing by the British Standards Institute (BSI) to make sure they are safe, reliable, and follow relevant safety standards.
Firm's aren't legally required to have the BSI Kitemark™, but it’s worth checking for it to make sure what you’re buying is reliable and safe.
It is especially important to look for it on safety-related products to make sure you’re properly protected.
CE mark
You’ve probably spotted this symbol on all kinds of products from toys to light bulbs, but do you know why it’s there?
The CE mark shows that the products meet European safety and environmental standards.
It is a legal requirement to have this symbol on certain products bought or sold within the EU, Switzerland, and Turkey.
The mark also has to appear on items made in these countries, even if they are going to be sold outside the EU.
Many countries around the world choose to use the CE mark so they can sell their products in the EU and other countries.
If you do not see the mark on a product, it may not be safe for you and your family to use.
For example, to carry the mark toys must not contain harmful chemicals, must not pose a choking hazard, and must not be easily flammable.
BTHA Lion Mark
This eye-catching symbol is similar to the CE symbol, but has much stricter standards.
Only members of the British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) can use the mark on their products.
To use it, a member has to sign a declaration promising to follow set safety, marketing, and ethical manufacturing standards.
That means that if you spot this on a toy, you should be getting the best quality.
Your rights if you've bought a faulty product
UNDER the Consumer Rights Act, everything you buy must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described
That means products shouldn't be faulty or damaged when you recieve them, must be fit for the purpose they are supplied for and must be as described.
You have 30 days from the date you took ownership of the goods to complain to the retailer – this date could be the date you bought the item or the day it was delivered to you.
If it has been more than 30 days, you can ask the retailer to repair or replace the item within six months of purchase.
You have the right to complain about a faulty product for up to six years, but after the first six months you have to prove a fault was present when you took ownership or goods.
These consumer rights are separate from product guaruntees or warranty – check the terms and conditions of such agreements before you contact the retailer.
For more advise about how to complain, or what to do if the retailer refused to help, contact the consumer ombudsman on 020 3540 8063 or visit their website.
Food safety symbol
You might have seen this little symbol on your plastic tupperware or drinking glasses.
It’s a pretty important symbol, as it means that the product you are using is safe to use with food.
The symbol is mandatory within the EU, and is widely used around the world so manufacturers can sell their products in EU countries.
If a product doesn’t have it, the material may contain toxic materials that could get into your food and drink.
If you’re buying crockery or glassware for your home, make sure you see this symbol so you know what you’re getting is safe to use.
Fire safety labels
Seen a label like this on your sofa or mattress? Don’t cut it off!
Fire safety labels like this one indicate that the product meets British fire safety standards.
Since 1988, all soft furnishings have to be treated with fire-retardant chemicals and carry a label to prove it.
It means that your furniture won’t easily set on fire if an open flame – such as a match or cigarette – is dropped onto it.
If your furniture doesn’t have this label, it can’t legally be resold or donated – you can only send it to the dump.
Charities have to throw away thousands of furniture items a year because they don’t have this label, so it's best to keep it on.
Age Warning
Many people think they know what this symbol means, but ignoring it could be potentially dangerous.
Toys often have recommendations to suggest what age a product is intended for.
But, that is not what this symbol means.
It means that the product contains parts that could be hazardous for small children.
But if a toy doesn’t have it, this doesn’t mean that it is safe – you should still always check the safety information.
Under EU law, any product that is considered not suitable for children under 3 years old must carry a clear warning.
The warning should also come with information about the kind of risk, such as a choking hazard.
While the toy must have a warning, it is not a requirement to use this symbol – however, this is the most commonly used.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has advice on how to make sure products are safe for your child.
It's always good to be cautious when shopping, especially with Amazon email scams like this one going around.
You should also be wary of free Wifi spots as they may be trying to steal your personal data.
And, it's worth checking whether the vinegar at your fish and chip shop is the real deal or a "non-brewed condiment".
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