HERALD SUN ARTICLE – https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/safety-blitz-sparks-product-recall-of-cots-posing-entrapment-choking-falls-hazards-for-children/news-story/a850dec56799fd2161ed8a66402e40d8
Karen Collier, Consumer reporter, Herald Sun
Parents are being warned to stop using the products after a surveillance sweep of online sellers identified potential entrapment, choking or fall dangers for babies and toddlers.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission was unable to disclose how many of the recalled models had been sold, citing confidentiality rules.
One of the cots had been available for sale for several years, according to recall alerts.
Furniture Complaints fears unsuspecting mums and dads will be increasingly exposed to unsafe goods sold over the internet that don’t meet local standards.
ACCC acting chair Delia Rickard said regulators nationwide tested purchased products in April, resulting in four suppliers issuing recalls last month.
Recall and refund notices reveal the cots did not comply with Australia’s mandatory safety standard. They failed various design, performance, labelling and marking requirements.
“Collectively, the recalled cots pose numerous risks to infants,” Ms Rickard said. The ACCC said no injuries had been reported.
A SWEET Heart Wooden ‘3 in 1’ Convertible Baby Cot Toddler Bed (B0221) available via ECheapFurniture.com from December 2, 2009 to May 9 this year.
A 3 in 1 Wooden Baby Cot Crib Toddler Bed Pine Wood With Mattress (MAC18042014516) sold via alwaysdirect.com.au
A WOODEN Baby Cot Crib Toddler Bed (EM0068-01) and Wooden Baby Cot Crib Toddler Cradle Bed (EM0069-01 and EM0067-01) available through eBay and VIP
Furniture in Queensland from March 31 last year to April 10 this year.
A WHITE New Zealand Pine 3-in-1 Baby Sleigh Cot Bed with Drawers available via allkidsonline.com.au from October 25 last year to January 31 this year. E&K Trade is contacting consumers to arrange delivery of new labels and sliding mechanisms.
Customers with a recalled cot should contact their supplier.
“The ACCC recommends that parents and carers only buy a cot that meets the mandatory safety standard,” Ms Rickard said.
“Look for a label or sticker that says the cot complies with the mandatory standard. If there isn’t one, ask the retailer. If the retailer cannot verify that it complies, do not buy it.”
Australian Furniture Association CEO Patrizia Torelli said the number of recalls was alarming.
Ms Torelli feared the growing popularity of online purchases could expose consumers to increasing risk of products falling short of Australian standards and regulations.
