The Minister Responsible for Consumer Affairs, The Hon Michael McCormack, last week announced a product safety boost for children’s nightwear. The Minister accepted the recommendation of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) that the safety standard should be updated.
“The most important role I have as Minister Responsible for Consumer Affairs is to ensure dodgy products are removed from our shelves, and people have the information they need to make informed choices about the goods and services they buy,” Mr McCormack said.
“It is vitally important that people take the time needed to review product safety advice, including warning labels, before purchasing and using certain products. This is especially important when it comes to products for kids.
“That is why today, as part of a rolling series of reviews and updates of product safety standards, I have accepted the ACCC’s advice and agreed to a new product safety standard for children’s nightwear.
“When parents and carers are busy putting their children to bed, the safety of kids’ pyjamas should not be at the forefront of their mind – it should be a given.
“The new safety standard will replace the existing standard which was introduced in 1978 and updated in 2007. It addresses the concerns many parents and I share about serious burns, injuries and fatalities resulting from nightwear made of flammable fabrics.
“Under the new standard, dangerously flammable fabrics cannot be sold. Labels will be improved to inform consumers whether the garment is a high or low risk and will help them make choices.
“Since the first standard was introduced, severe burns from flammable fabrics are down significantly, but now is the time to ensure the whole market goes even further to protect kids.”
In reviewing the standard, the ACCC consulted a range of stakeholders, the majority of which supported the update.
“While the incidence of severe burns has fallen, my decision today further boosts the safety of children’s nightwear. We must all remain vigilant with children’s clothing near open flames and heaters, even when drying clothes – please make sure you read the labels”, Mr McCormack said.
The Consumers’ Federation of Australia welcomes the Minister’s decision and the ACCC’s findings.