Press Release 2005-03-08

GNBS DISSATISFIED WITH QUALITY OF FANS IMPORTED

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) notes with great concern the upsurge in consumer complaints regarding the  quality of electrical fans (Stand and Desk  types)  being imported into the country. Electrical fans which fall under the category of domestic electrical appliances constitute one of the twenty four commodities currently monitored by the GNBS on a product by product basis, under the national standards compliance programme.

 As a result of the mounting concerns raised by consumers, the GNBS commenced a surveillance campaign on fans, beginning with Central Georgetown and continuing in the regions, where electrical fans were targeted for violations of the national labelling standards and import requirements.

Of the twenty six premises visited in central Georgetown, around the main shopping areas, one hundred and twenty fans of diverse brands were placed on HOLD for violations such as inadequate labelling, the absence of certification marks from the country of origin (which would verify that the product has been tested and is in compliance with the national standard of that country) the use of foreign languages with no accompanying English translations provided to explain instructions and directions for safe use.

Importers whose products were placed on hold were advised to take corrective action to address the many non-conformances highlighted especially labelling requirements, which are compulsory. They were also warned to obtain test certificates from an independent body in the country of origin to ascertain the quality of the products before these products can be released for sale to consumers.

Dealers and retailers were also advised by inspectors that they too will be held accountable for the products which they buy from importers as it is their responsibility to familiarise themselves with the requirements and to ensure that the products which they purchase from importers meet the relevant requirements.

The brands that were found to be in breach of the requirements are: Nippon, Matsui, Weston, Europa, Minimax, Krish, High Velocity, Royal, Super Deluxe, Senhe, Sankey and Berway electronics.

The Standards Bureau wishes to further advise that in future, the excuse of ignorance will not be accepted and stronger action will be taken if necessary to ensure that stipulations are complied with.

Information regarding import requirements and copies of the relevant labelling standards    are available at the Technical Standards Information Unit (TSIU) located at the GNBS Offices in Sophia.

EVADNIE ENNISS- FIELDS

HEAD, INFORMATION SERVICES

FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Email:gnbs@neworksgy.com