TRADING STANDARDS WHAT YOU CAN DO
According to the European Commission, every year an
estimated 160,000 tons of consumer batteries – including
those used by vapers – enter the EU market. In order to combat poor quality and low safety standards,
not to mention keeping things above board, both 18650UK
and Fogstar representatives say vape shops should be
challenging suppliers. “Ask them, why are they supplying
you an illegal product? For the most part, it’s not a lack of
caring but a lack of education. The vaping industry has grown
around cells never intended for this use and we repeatedly
find that many businesses and individuals were simply
unaware of their responsibilities but if you’re made aware
and choose to continue selling a non-compliant product
‘because it’s cheaper’ (and let’s be honest, that’s the only
real reason), what does that say about your commitment to
your customers safety?”
As with non-compliant e-liquids, anyone found selling non-
compliant batteries risks having them confiscated by Trading
Standards without a chance of them being returned. Mr
Mowbray says this is already happening across the UK. “Our
contact for regulation has an impressive list of businesses
they know are operating well below the level of the legislation
and are working closely with online retailers like Amazon
and eBay not only from a compliance level, but information
gathered is also shared with HM Revenue and Customs.”
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