ZCSA Seizes Non-Compliant Electrical Products Worth Over K290,000 in Lusaka
The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has confiscated and quarantined a significant amount of non-compliant electrical products in Lusaka, collectively valued at more than K290,000.
According to Brian Hatyoka, Acting Manager of Communications and Public Relations at the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency, the seized items include electric cables, adaptors, and various household electrical appliances such as kettles, plate cookers, and toasters.
These products were found to be non-compliant with the relevant compulsory standards during inspections conducted at trading areas including Kamwala, Oasis, Westgate, and Levy Malls in Lusaka.
Of the seized items, those valued at K42,090 have been withdrawn from the market due to posing potential risks to public safety. Mr. Hatyoka highlighted that these risks include personal injury, electric shock, fire hazards, and damage to property.
Furthermore, products valued at K248,499 have been quarantined pending the implementation of corrective measures, as stipulated under the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017.
Among the specific non-compliance issues identified were 56 plugs, sockets, and adaptors lacking required color coding, 121 electric cables not registered with the Agency, and 1,442 plugs, sockets, and adaptors failing to comply with the Zambian Standard 558: Plugs and Socket Outlets, Adaptors, and Connection Units.
ZCSA has issued a stern warning to traders engaging in the illegal supply of non-compliant products, emphasizing the serious risks such items pose to public safety. The agency has pledged to continue its enforcement activities to ensure that only safe products are allowed on the market.
Consumers have been urged to purchase electrical products from reputable sources and to report any suspicious items to the nearest ZCSA office. The agency regulates the manufacture, importation, and sale of electrical products covered by compulsory standards such as ZS 106, ZS 558, and ZS 688, which outline specifications and testing methods for household, commercial, and light industrial use.
ZCSA, a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, is mandated by the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017 to administer, maintain, and enforce compulsory standards in order to safeguard public safety, health, consumer rights, and environmental protection.
