An importer of children's cots that did not comply with the mandatory product safety standard has provided court-enforceable undertakings to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
Lane Wrigley Pty Ltd has undertaken to implement a trade practices compliance program to reduce the possibility and incidents of similar breaches.
The ACCC found that the cot failed to comply with safety labelling and certain design requirements of the standard contrary to section 65C of the Trade Practices Act 1974. In particular, the cot was of an insufficient depth to minimise the risk of child climbing or falling out of the cot and contained protrusions and hazardous openings.
"Importers need to exercise care to ensure the goods they import into Australia comply with any mandatory safety standards in order to protect the safety of Australian consumers and their families", ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, said today.
After the ACCC raised its concerns with the company, it ceased further supply and recalled those it had supplied. The ACCC notes Lane Wrigley Pty Ltd had supplied the cots, known as the 8036 Baby Bed, to discount variety stores throughout Australia. The cot was designed and marketed as one that could also be converted into a bed.
The ACCC notes the prompt action taken by Lane Wrigley Pty Ltd and its cooperation in resolving this matter.
Professor Fels also said the ACCC had drawn the matter to the attention of the retailers that had stocked the cot and advised them of their obligations under the product safety requirements of the Trade Practices Act.