THE telltale signs that standard Christmas lights passed through the government standards is that it should come in sticker forms and not pre-printed on the item’s package, share the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
These signs, or more formally called the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) ensure consumers that the products are hazard-free.
DTI Secretary Gregory L. Domingo emphasizes that the ICC mark is in sticker form and comes with a unique serial number.
“Those sets of Christmas lights with pre-printed ICC mark on its package are definitely uncertified and did not undergo proper tests and inspections of the Department,†Sec. Domingo warned in reports.
The ICC mark stickers are placed only on products which pass through DTI’s mandatory safety tests for safety and reliability,†Domingo stresses.
DTI, which regulates the sale of Christmas lights in the local market hopes that by giving these early warnings, consumers are protected from the hazards such as electric shock and over heating by substandard products.
DTI’s Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) Product Certification Scheme mandates that importers of Christmas lights shall secure an ICC certificate prior to the sale and distribution of their products in the local market.
More than that, DTI Consumer Welfare Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya added that other than import labels, consumers should check on the package, especially on Christmas lights.
She said consumers should read the manufacturer’s, supplier’s, distributor’s name, address and trademark or brand.
The DTI has recently issued a list of manufacturers and brand names carried that have passed the standards.
Malaya also said the package should include company rated voltage and rated wattage of the set; rated voltage and rated wattage of the lamp and this must include the words: â€For indoor use only.
ICC Marks must also include the standard PNS 189:2000 and the batch/ lot number or bar code, she said.
At this, DTI said fires and electrical power disruptions caused by substandard Christmas lights should not spoil the holidays. (racPIABohol)
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