We know the tragic story all too well by now. Kids pop button batteries into their cheeks, because they look like sweets. But if they suck too hard, they may draw them down through their throats to where the electricity can seriously harm them. Governments have posted warnings but the problem continues. Perhaps it is time for them to get tougher about ramping up button battery safety.
Court Takes a Stand on Button Battery Safety
The Australian Federal Court clearly believes that enough is enough, and one hurt child is one child too many. ABC News reports the Federal Court just fined a company $14 million, for selling tens of thousands of button batteries that that do not meet Australian safety standards.
The offending batteries are in products many kids would find attractive, including key rings, toys and illuminated accessories for shoes. All a kid need do is remove the batteries, and do what some kids tragically do.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission that brought the case, is clearly not done with ramping up button battery safety either. It promises to take ‘strong enforcement action’ against other companies selling ‘non-compliant button battery products’.
How Ramping Up In Court Did the Trick
The Consumer Commission opened its case by proving the offending products failed to meet mandatory safety and information requirements. It went on to explain how button batteries can cause severe internal injury that can kill little children.
“We will not hesitate to continue ramping up button battery safety“, it warned. This includes prosecuting businesses that fail to comply with our button battery safety standards.
The offending company was deeply apologetic. “Nothing is more important to us than the safety and trust of the people who shop with us,” it told ABC News.
“We are deeply sorry for any worry or inconvenience this situation may cause you and your family.” Customers who purchased the offending products should stop using them immediately. They may return them for complete refunds according to ABC News.
More Information
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