The Liberal Government is urging Tasmanians to be vigilant when buying USB power chargers in the wake of serious safety concerns about some chargers being sold interstate.
The warning comes after the death of a woman in New South Wales where investigations identified an unapproved and non-compliant USB charger as being potentially implicated.
Non-compliant USB power chargers can be very dangerous and could damage your equipment or give you an electric shock.
WorkSafe Tasmania is currently auditing retail outlets in Tasmania to see if any non-compliant or unapproved USB power chargers are being offered for sale.
Consumers are urged to check that their charger either has the Australian regulatory compliance mark, which is a tick surrounded by a partial circle and enclosed in a triangle, or a safety certificate number which means it is approved for sale in Australia.
Unapproved USB chargers can be easily identified as the plug pins have no insulation and there are holes drilled in the plug pins.
Anyone who has an unapproved USB charger should stop using the device immediately and throw it out.
Further advice on USB power charger safety is located on the WorkSafe Tasmania website at www.worksafe.tas.gov.au
Peter Gutwein, Treasurer
