Increasing importance of Standards

MEDIA RELEASE

20 August 2007

Increasing importance of Standards

Recent safety concerns over imported children’s clothing and toys highlight the need for importers to be vigilant.

‘Child safety is enormously important and we welcome the opportunity to assist the Ministry of Consumer Affairs on this issue,’ says Grant Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, Standards New Zealand.

‘Under the consumer Guarantees Act importers and manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products comply with any relevant Standards and legislation,’ says Mr Thomas. ‘The recent cases highlight the increasing need for New Zealand to continue to be vigilant when importing items from offshore.’

There are two New Zealand Standards that set out general safety, fire hazards and care labelling in clothing. The Standards are:

- AS/NZS 1249:2003 Children's nightwear and limited daywear having reduced fire hazard

- NZS 8704:1989 Low fire danger fabrics for domestic apparel

For more information on these Standards, go to www.standards.co.nz.

ENDS

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