Warning issued about unsafe travel adaptors

WA’s energy safety regulator has issued a warning about dangerous travel adaptors that are not approved for use in Australia, following a rise in electric shock reports.

Building and Energy is urging consumers to only purchase electrical appliances from reputable retailers after noting unsafe adaptors for sale through some local online marketplaces and international sellers.

“These products do not meet stringent Australian safety standards and can put users at risk of electric shock from live, uninsulated metal parts,” said Building and Energy Acting Executive Director Nabil Yazdani.

Yazdani said that consumers should check that their electrical equipment has a regulatory compliance mark — a tick inside a triangle — showing it has been independently approved for use in Australia.

One type of dangerous travel adaptor has multiple pins that can all become electrified with 240 volts when one section is plugged into a socket outlet. A user could be electrocuted or seriously injured if they touch the live pins, even in a recessed position.

The exposed pins of this travel adaptor become electrified when the other part is plugged in.

Other models of dangerous travel adaptors have all-metal pins, with no insulation, or pins with holes.

Insulation must cover at least half the pin to protect against contact with live parts if the plug is not fully pushed into the socket outlet. Incidents and even fatalities have occurred when thin metallic items, such as blind slats, have touched the active pins of loose plugs.

“The adaptor should also be robust and in good condition,” Yazdani said.

“If you have any doubts about the safety or compliance of your electrical equipment, dispose of it responsibly or have it checked by a licensed electrical contractor. It’s simply not worth the risk.”

Top image caption: The exposed pins of this travel adaptor become electrified when the other part is plugged in.