Dangerous Travel Adaptors Sold Online Fail All Safety Tests, Experts Warn
Investigation reveals universal and basic travel adaptors purchased from major online retailers pose risks of electric shock, electrocution, and fire.
A significant number of travel adaptors available for purchase online present serious safety hazards, according to an investigation by consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First. The organization tested 14 adaptors bought from prominent online marketplaces, including AliExpress, eBay, Amazon Marketplace, and TikTok Shop, finding that every single product failed basic safety checks.
Several universal adaptors, designed for use in multiple countries, were found to expose users to live electrical parts. Eight universal adaptors with retractable pins were tested, and six of them allowed more than one set of plug pins to be accessible simultaneously while plugged in. This design flaw means users could potentially come into contact with up to 240 volts of electricity, a risk that is particularly dangerous if hands are wet.
Further issues with the universal adaptors included the absence of surge protection, despite being advertised as having it. Additionally, all eight universal devices failed to meet dimensional and mechanical strength requirements. One adaptor sold on Amazon, which had numerous reviews, was noted by a buyer for overheating on its first use and allegedly destroying the appliance it was charging. Another concern was that the pins on some adaptors could break off inside sockets, creating an electric shock risk if a user attempted to remove them.
Failures in Basic Adaptors
The investigation also examined six basic travel adaptors, intended for specific countries or regions. These also exhibited common safety failures, such as missing safety shutters, which are crucial for preventing contact with live internal parts. The absence of these shutters increases the risk of electric shock. Other defects included missing fuses, raising the risk of fire, and oversized plug pin holes that make it easier to touch live electrical parts. Some adaptors that accepted three-pin plugs failed to provide an earth connection, an important safety feature to prevent electric shock.
One basic adaptor found on Amazon Marketplace, which had over 1,000 reviews and was an 'Amazon's Choice' product, reportedly fell apart in a user's hands, raising fears of electrocution.
Fire Risk Identified
Tests conducted in a specialist laboratory identified serious fire risks associated with both universal and basic adaptors. Six of the tested plugs failed a 'glow wire' test, which assesses the flammability of plastic components. Several adaptors ignited when their plastic casings came into contact with a pre-heated element.
Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, stated that consumers should not have to worry about the safety of products bought online, but the investigation indicates dangerous electrical goods continue to reach homes through these platforms. This follows a similar investigation less than a year prior, which found 15 dangerous travel adaptors on various online sites.
Marketplace Responses and Government Consideration
In response to the findings, Amazon stated that products identified have been removed from sale and that they proactively monitor their store for safety alerts, removing relevant products and notifying customers. eBay reported that identified listings have been removed and wider checks are underway, emphasizing their use of technology, AI monitoring, and specialist teams to maintain a safe marketplace.
AliExpress confirmed that the identified listings have been removed and they are contacting affected customers for a recall. The platform has also initiated a review of universal travel adaptor listings that show all plug pins extended simultaneously, restricting sales until sellers take corrective action. TikTok stated it has removed the listings and videos, asserting its commitment to customer safety and seller compliance with regulations.
The UK Government is reportedly considering new regulations that would hold online marketplaces accountable for the safety of products sold on their platforms. Electrical Safety First advocates for robust government measures to ensure online marketplaces are held accountable, arguing that without them, dangerous products will continue to pose risks to consumers.