WA’s energy safety regulator, Building and Energy, has launched a new campaign encouraging consumers to check for a safety and compliance symbol when buying electrical appliances and equipment.

Unapproved electrical appliances and equipment can pose serious risks, such as electric shock and fire. It is illegal to sell household electrical appliances that are not approved by an Australian regulatory authority.

Shoppers are advised to always check for a regulatory compliance mark (RCM), displayed as a tick inside a triangle, showing the electrical product meets Australian standards and has been independently approved for use.

Building and Energy’s campaign includes social media and videos with the message, “Not all electrical appliances meet Australian safety standards. How do we know what’s safe? Look for the RCM.”

WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, stressed the importance of consumer awareness about the risks of buying non-compliant products, particularly from overseas or unfamiliar online sellers.

“Shopping online for electrical products has become more common, but not all products sold online meet Australian standards. By simply looking for the RCM, consumers can make informed decisions and protect their home and family from potentially fatal hazards,” Mr Abdoolakhan said.

“The cost savings aren’t worth the risk. If you aren’t confident about the product’s electrical safety, don’t buy it and instead seek out established retailers with RCM approved appliances.”

The campaign, which will run until late-November, is the third electrical safety awareness initiative launched by WA’s energy safety regulator this year. Previous campaigns include ‘Test your RCDs,’ which encouraged testing of residual current devices, and ‘Don’t DIY,’ advising consumers never to undertake their own electrical or gas fitting work.

View the campaign video at the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@DMIRSWA

For more handy tips on electrical safety, visit: www.demirs.wa.gov.au/besafe 

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Media contact: BEmedia@dmirs.wa.gov.au

30-second YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_V5p1pxJqoc
15-second YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-tjjBGxvIM

Images from the campaign: