GNBS seizes, destroys over 5000 substandard electrical fittings
Inspectors of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Product Compliance Department on Friday destroyed more than 5000 pieces of substandard electrical fittings seized from businesses.
A statement from the GNBS stated that these fittings were seized during the months of May and June, 2022.
Some of the electrical items that were destroyed after failing compliance
The poor quality and improperly labelled items were discovered and confiscated during the ongoing countrywide surveillance activities to rid the marketplace of products monitored by the GNBS, that do not meet the requirements of the respective National Standards.
Many of the seized items were held for the stipulated 21-day period as the GNBS awaited the submission of test certificates by importers and dealers attesting to their quality. These stakeholders failed to submit valid test certificates which prompted the destruction and disposal of the products.
The destroyed items include 5000 pieces of extension cords, lamp holders, receptacles, power strips, cables, electrical breakers, and plugs.
“The monitoring of products by the GNBS through inspections at the ports of entry, and sale outlets remains crucial to ensure user safety and value for money,” the entity stated.
Nevertheless, the Bureau said it will continue to aggressively monitor the 17 categories of products falling under its purview to ensure adherence to quality and labelling requirements.
Importers and dealers are urged to understand and adhere to the requirements for products imported and offered for sale to ensure compliance and consumer safety.
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards National Standards Act of 1984 and its amendment of 1997 ensures that products offered for sale conform to the requirements of Compulsory National Standards.
“National Standards are available for a wide cross section of commodities imported into Guyana or manufactured locally. Upon importation, products monitored by the GNBS are automatically flagged by the ASYCUDA World System based on their HS Codes. Inspections are conducted at the ports of entry, points of sale, or at importer’s warehouses and bonds,” the Bureau has outlined.
Products manufactured locally or imported that are found to be in compliance with their relevant National Standards are released to suppliers. However, in instances where products fail to conform to the requirements, the appropriate enforcement actions are taken by the GNBS. These include seizure, request for relabelling submission of the requisite test certificates. In some cases, non-conforming products are destroyed, or importers are asked to reship to their country of origin. (G12)
