The issues surrounding dodgy electrical wires and cables are well-documented, so the announcement of a recall should be taken seriously by all consumers.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), 18 electrical retailers and wholesalers have recalled Infinity cables due to public safety risk. After testing, the cables were deemed unsafe due to poor quality plastic insulation coating.
These cables are installed across the country including NSW where the cables were supplied and sold from 2010-2013. The cables were in stores such as Mitre 10, Home Timber and Hardware and Masters Home Improvement during the years in question.
ACCC Chairman Rod Sims explained that consumer agencies and a number of regulators are behind the recall, and told people to contact authorities if they are affected.
“Testing has found that the cables will degrade prematurely and if the cables are disturbed, the insulation could break and expose live conductors, resulting in possible electric shock or fires,” he said.
Authorities believe the cables will age at different rates due to both temperature and load. This could occur as early as 2016, but could pose a risk much sooner.
ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard stated consumers should not inspect or remove the cables themselves and should instead talk to their supplier or tradespeople.
“The Taskforce found there is no immediate danger but careful steps should be taken by a licensed electrical contractor to avoid electric shock or fires from occurring in coming years,” she said.
“Homeowners and tradespeople are urged to turn off all the main power switches at the switchboard before heading up into the ceiling space at all times.”
Consumers who are unsure if they have Infinity cables located in their home are encouraged to get a full inspection of their wiring from a professional builder or electrician.
More information on the recall is available on the ACCC website.
Product liability in NSW
If you are injured by any product, regardless of whether it has been recalled or not, you could be eligible for compensation.
Injuries from products are more common than most people think so if you believe you have a case, contact a compensation lawyer at Gerard Malouf & Partners.
These lawyers operate on a no win no fee basis so they can advise you on your chances of success free of charge – if they think you have a case, it’s completely up to you whether you engage their services.
