Retailer fined for selling products that could electrocute customers after WSCC Trading Standards investigation

An online retailer that ignored warnings to stop selling dangerous goods that posed a risk of electric shock has been ordered to pay almost £3,000 following a West Sussex County Council Trading Standards investigation.

Sloops Ltd based in March, Cambridgeshire pleaded guilty to charges at Crawley Magistrates Court and was ordered to pay fines of £1,152 and £1,318 in costs and a victim surcharge of £115 for selling unsafe electrical goods and other non-compliant products.
 
The retailer sold popular electrical items like hair straighteners, massagers and travel adaptors that could result in potential electrocution if used, and a range of other regulated items.

The company had been warned to stop selling a travel adaptor, but when they continued to sell the product, West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Officers took action and made test purchases of items.

Tests revealed that products failed to meet safety standards and were not compliant with relevant legislation.

Managing Director Mr John Hayward of Rhonda Park, Wimblington, March was also fined £200 and a victim surcharge of £34.

Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire & Rescue said: “It is concerning to see such dangerous products readily available to purchase online.

“All businesses have a duty of care to make sure the goods they sell are safe to use and fit for purpose. Sadly in this case, that duty was recklessly ignored.

“I’m relieved that the firm in question has been fined and hope this serves as a warning for other businesses to take their responsibilities seriously.”

Peter Aston, West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Team Manager added: “Defective products can cause serious injuries and we will always take action to remove unsafe goods from the marketplace.

“Our officers made every effort to allow the company to become compliant without the need for court action but the advice and warnings were ignored.” 

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