The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is requesting submissions from stakeholders, including consumers, consumer safety advocates and the furniture and television industries, about the safety hazards posed by toppling furniture.
The submissions to an issues paper will support the ACCC to assess the factors affecting safety, and the potential options which may be effective in reducing the risk of injury and death.
“While some manufacturers are making efforts to address the safety risks, we are seeking feedback about what more can be done to prevent deaths and injuries from toppling furniture,” ACCC deputy chair, Delia Rickard said.
Furniture and televisions, including ready-made products and flat packs that require customers to self-assemble, are often large and heavy, with the weight located towards the front of the unit.
Anchoring kits, supplied with some furniture and televisions and available for purchase separately, are used to attach the unit to a wall or other secure surface. “While typically effective when used correctly, anchoring kits are not always used by consumers,” Rickard said.
There is no mandatory safety standard or information standard specifically relating to toppling furniture and televisions in Australia. A range of voluntary measures have sought to address the safety risks, including a voluntary standard for free-standing furniture published by Standards Australia.
According to the ACCC consumers are advised to consider furniture and televisions that come with safety information and equipment for anchoring these to the walls.
Scoping more effective ways to prevent injuries and deaths caused by toppling furniture is a Product Safety Priority for the ACCC this year.
The issues paper and information on how to make a submission is available on Product Safety Australia. Consultation close on August 30, 2021.