GNBS seizes, destroys over 11,600 substandard electrical fittings & equipment
In a move to uphold safety standards and protect consumers, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has seized and destroyed a substantial cache of substandard electrical fittings and equipment. The seizure, amounting to 11,660 pieces, was the result of surveillance operations conducted across several regions during May and June.
Some of the items that were seized and destroyed
The seized items, including wires, cables, lamp holders, circuit breakers, and extension cords among others, failed to meet critical labeling requirements stipulated by national standards. Issues identified included the absence of certification marks, country of origin details, and manufacturer names. Some items were inaccurately labeled while others lacked any labeling altogether. The items were seized in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Three (Essequibo Islands -West Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Acting Head of the GNBS Product Compliance Department, Lorenzo Gill, highlighted that despite a 21-day grace period given to importers and dealers to provide necessary documentation such as Test Certificates and Declarations of Conformity, compliance was not achieved. Consequently, the GNBS proceeded with the destruction of these items earlier today at their Head Office located in the National Exhibition Complex, Sophia, Georgetown.
Gill further underscored the presence of unregistered dealers found selling non-compliant products, urging them to promptly register with the GNBS to avoid legal repercussions and ensure the safety of products being distributed in the market.
The GNBS has intensified monitoring efforts across 31 mandatory national standards governing various electrical fittings and equipment categories. This proactive approach includes rigorous inspections of imported goods and spot checks at retail outlets to enforce compliance.
Importers and dealers have been urged to familiarise themselves with the applicable national standards, obtain necessary certifications, and rectify any non-conformities promptly. This, GNBS emphasises, is crucial in mitigating potential hazards such as electrical fires caused by substandard products.
In addition to electrical fittings and equipment, GNBS continues to monitor a wide range of consumer products including domestic appliances, textiles, footwear, and electronics, ensuring that all goods meet stringent quality and safety benchmarks before reaching consumers.
Importers and dealers seeking further information on compliance requirements are encouraged to visit the GNBS website (gnbsgy.org) to access relevant standards and guidelines, thereby contributing to a safer marketplace for all consumers.
