Is USB Charging Safe?
Most technology is now powered by a USB style charger.
If you break or misplace the model that came with your item, it is so easy to pick up a replacement from almost anywhere, online, local stores even some petrol stations.
Is USB Charging Safe?
The death of a consumer where an unapproved USB charger was potentially implicated caused a major electrical safety warning being issued to prevent similar tragedy from occurring again.
These unsafe products are bypassing Australian testing standard and are not safe to use. Certain products have also been found to be missing several components such as missing insulation, no pins and no approval marks.
It is illegal to sell unapproved or non-compliant USB powered adapters in Australia since they have a very high fire, death and damage risk. The maximum penalties are $87,500 and/or two years imprisonment for an individual and $875,000 for a corporation.
Some of the telltale signs that a USB powered adapter is unapproved:
- Cheaper than it should be
- The pins need to get plugged into the wall to be insulated
- Construction needs to be a well made sturdy design
- Approval markers or numbers need to be visible.
If you have one of these products please throw it away immediately, the safety of your loved ones and families are more important.
