Parents are being warned about faulty baby cots bought online, which could pose serious safety risks.
In the past month a total of four faulty cots have been recalled by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission following a surveillance program.
According to the ACCC household cots supplied online were purchased and assessed to test if they adhered to the Australian safety standard.
“As a result of the recent market surveillance, four suppliers recalled their cots in May 2017. Collectively, the recalled cots pose numerous risks to infants, including entrapment hazards.
“The ACCC encourages parents and carers to check that they do not own the recalled products. If they identify one of the recalled models, they should stop using the cot and contact the suppliers to obtain the recall remedy,” an ACCC spokesperson said.
Patrizia Torelli acting CEO of the Australian Furniture Association said the issues relate to concerns of online shopping.
“With the impending launch of Amazon into Australia, we’re concerned that consumers will assume that all products sold online will meet Australian standards and comply with our regulations.
The AFA CEO said processes need to change.
“I think the bottom line is we need to have regulation on what products can be sold online and they must come with warnings if they haven’t been tested.
“The other thing is quite often cots are tested according to its structural requirements, but what it doesn’t include is the type of mattress that has to be used. We are calling for the mandatory standard to include the mattress because a soft mattress or the wrong size can contribute to risks.
“People need to consider furniture as not just a fashion statement, but also as equipment in day-to-day life.”
When buying cots the AFA urges parents to ask the supplier whether it adheres to Australian safety standards and to only buy from a reputable retailer.
“Make sure they meet the standards and if in doubt check with us and we can help.”
RECALLED COTS
- E & K Trade Pty Ltd t/as All4Kids — White New Zealand Pine 3-in-1 Baby Sleigh Cot Bed with Drawers
- Suncool Furniture Pty Ltd t/as E Cheap Furniture — Sweet Heart Wooden "3 in 1" Convertible Baby Cot Toddler Bed
- Maccess Pty Ltd t/as Always Direct — 3 in1 Wooden Baby Cot Crib Toddler Bed Pine Wood With Mattress
- Emall Pty Ltd — Wooden Baby Cot Crib Toddler Bed & Wooden Baby Cot Crib Toddler Cradle Bed