Fire hazard warning on unbranded Christmas decorative light chains- CHOICE # 374

With the yuletide season just around the corner, consumers are warned to steer clear of Christmas decorative lights that are sold without any information on brandname or agent or both.

This timely warning followed a Consumer Council test to investigate the safety of 16 models of Christmas decorative light chains.

Nine of the samples, in the relatively low price range of mostly around $20 to $40, were found to be without any brand or agent information marked on the packaging.

Without exception, the test showed that none of these samples could fully fulfill the safety requirements in a series of laboratory tests in accordance with international standard on luminaries.

In the majority of the cases, these light chains were found to be poorly designed without independent over-current protection devices which, under internal component short-circuit condition, the main source will be tripped off or may pose over-heating hazard.

Another major safety problem with these unbranded samples concerned poor wiring - the cross sectional area of the wires was found to measure a mere 0.01 mm2 to 0.05 mm2, which is grossly under the standard requirement of 0.5 mm2.

Light chains with wire of insufficient thickness may also cause over-heating, and melting of the external insulation of the wires.

Other non-compliances in safety include failure in: heat and fire resistance requirement, electric strength, insufficient creepage distance and clearances, imperfect construction, and lack of marking or user instruction.

Overall, only one single sample could fully pass the safety tests. The other remaining 6 samples with brand or agent information were detected with safety deficiency but to a lesser extent.

In the course of a market survey on these products, the Council found that some were still fitted with 2-pin plugs of a poor quality in shops located generally in the Yaumatei and Shamshuipo areas. According to the Electrical Products (Safety) Regulation, all Christmas light chains should be sold with 3-pin plugs.

The Consumer Council has notified the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) of the test findings. The EMSD has promptly followed up with inspection and prosecution action on retail outlets selling unsafe decorative luminaries. EMSD has also stepped up enforcement and publicity to ensure safety of Christmas lighting chains.

Consumers are therefore advised to avoid such decorative light chains with 2-pin plugs. Check also the quality of wiring and bulbs.

Pay more attention to the purchase and use of this seasonal product to prevent any mishaps, and enjoy the festive holidays.