Brits urged to avoid dangerous plug adaptors this summer - what to watch out for
Campaign group Electrical Safety First has urged those "heading abroad this summer to think before they buy".
Brits planning holidays abroad this summer have been advised to steer clear of potentially dangerous plug adaptors, following an investigation by consumer safety group Electrical Safety First (ESF). ESF tested products from popular online marketplaces AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, eBay and TikTok Shop, finding all 14 failed to meet UK safety standards.
Some devices could expose users to serious electric shock or electrocution risks. Despite pledges from AliExpress, Amazon, eBay and TikTok to remove flagged products, ESF urged summer travelers to exercise caution when purchasing. ESF tested six regular and eight universal adaptors, revealing multiple sets of pins could be exposed simultaneously in six universal adaptors, posing fire safety and electrical shock risks.
None of the tested adaptors met UK standards for dimensions, mechanical strength or safety shutters. ESF called for online platforms to take greater responsibility for the electrical goods they sell, warning that the consequences of poorly designed products can be life-altering or fatal.
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