Colleagues, In the space of a couple of weeks, I've been given 2 charger units (reputable names) which come in 2 parts (dismantled by hand, no tools required). The interchangeable "plug" part, when dismantled has two slightly recessed contacts diirectly accessible by everyday common metal objects (oh for a picture facility on this Forum) such as might be wielded by small inquisitive fingers. The risk of electric shock is readily apparent. The first picture at this link gives an idea of the problem, although I stress the components in my possession have slightly recessed contacts. http://www.esc.org.uk/in...ting-screening/chargers/ These things seem to be manifestly unsafe and contrary to any standard and principle of essential electrical safety requirements, but they're everywhere, and plastered with CE mark and every type-approval you could think of. Is anyone out there aware of recalls, investigations and authoritative determination regarding supply? I'm minded to do an internal recall within my Organisation, & that's going to result in a lot of dead appliances!

No Jackpot I'm afraid. Nothing listed for recall as far as I can see with the specific problem of live contact with a detachable plug interface.

ron Though the chargers you mention have reputable names on them, it's quite possible that they are actually fake/counterfeit versions. According to consumer programmes on TV there is a major and increasing problem in the UK and elsewhere regarding dangerous fake copies of chargers for reputable makes of mobile phones, laptops and similar equipment. The fakes have packaging and labels which mimic those of genuine versions and sometimes also have CE markings. However, as they're badly made using inadequate materials and omit important safety features, their use can lead to fires and/or risk of serious electric shock. Trading standards officers from local authorities face an uphill battle in trying to identify and apprehend unsafe/dangerous items as they arrive in the UK or appear in shops and market stalls, etc. They have an even harder task regarding those who sell such items from private addresses by mail order. The overall problem is greatly exacerbated by the following aspects: The internet allows almost anything to be readily advertised to vast numbers of people nowadays. Too many people are accustomed to searching the internet for whatever items they want, believing without question what they read, and then ordering items advertised at what they regard as amazingly rather than suspiciously low prices. If something is being advertised for a price which is far lower than the average price charged by reputable makers and retailers, it could well be a dangerous fake. For those wanting more information there is plenty available on the internet including the following: http://www.watchmywallet...red-on-bbc-fake-britain/ http://www.dailymail.co....chargers-burn-house.html

That link from Grizzly is indeed typical of the kind of devices I'm concerned with - particularly the detachable "plug" part.

I have one of said devices, where the 13A plug unit interfaces (sic) with the power supply unit very like the above image. The PINS on the 13A plug are compliant, as in that the power pins are partially shielded and the earth pin is completely metal (it could be completely plastic to conform). However, the slider part on the plug that clips into the power supply cannot be complaint with the safety standard because it is possible to contact the power pins on the slider part of the plug, albeit not with fingers., if plugged-in without that charger attached.

Easy there, folks. Please don't hijack the thread with a 1363 argument. The real issue is that we have appliances which are obviously unsafe, yet are in common usage. What's the solution?

I detect a faint edge of cynicism in that post John. I've written to the Electrical Safety Council today and will be meeting Trading Standards soon. I'm pondering getting in touch with HSE. If anyone has a thought on who best to contact there, I'd be obliged if you could share. I'll keep you posted.

Here's a "typical" on Youtube. Whilst the connectors on the back of the adaptor aren't evident, but hopefull you'll get the idea that the rear of the plug adaptor has exposed, unshuttered contacts.

Cynicism? Me Ron? ! Oh dear.........why could that be: http://www.bs1363.org.uk/ Now, about Amazon......

I see an LA - I think it might have been Nottingham, have just sacked half of their trading standards folks last week "in the cutbacks". So open season for anyone who wants to place dangerous equipment on the market. If I had no morals, I reckon I could be a millionaire by this time next year (rodney)