An investigation by consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First has revealed that thousands of travel adaptors sold on major online marketplaces present significant safety hazards, potentially endangering holidaymakers.
The charity tested 14 travel adaptors purchased from platforms including AliExpress, eBay, Amazon Marketplace, and TikTok Shop. The findings indicated that every single adaptor failed fundamental safety assessments, with some posing risks of electric shock, electrocution, and fire.
Of the eight universal adaptors tested, which are designed for use in multiple regions including the UK, Europe, Australia, and the US, six allowed multiple sets of plug pins to be exposed and live simultaneously while plugged in. This design flaw means users could potentially come into contact with up to 240 volts of electricity, which could be fatal if touched with wet hands.
Furthermore, six of the universal adaptors falsely claimed to have surge protection. Laboratory testing found no surge protection devices fitted to these products. All eight universal adaptors also did not meet required dimensional and mechanical strength standards.
One universal adaptor sold on Amazon, which had approximately 9,000 reviews, was flagged by a customer who reported it overheated on its first use and destroyed the appliance it was charging. Another issue identified was that the pins on some adaptors could snap and break off inside sockets, creating an electric shock hazard if a user attempted to remove the broken pin.
The six basic travel adaptors, intended for specific countries or regions, also exhibited common safety failures. These included missing safety shutters, which are crucial for preventing users from touching live internal parts. The absence of these shutters increases the risk of electric shock.
Other failures noted in the basic adaptors were missing fuses, elevating the risk of fire, and oversized plug pin holes that make it easier for users to contact live electrical parts. Some adaptors accepted three-pin plugs without providing an essential earth connection for shock prevention.
One basic adaptor on Amazon Marketplace, which was an 'Amazon's Choice' product, had over 1,000 reviews. One reviewer stated the plug fell apart in their hands, raising concerns about potential electrocution. Testing also revealed serious fire risks; four universal and two basic adaptors failed a 'glow wire' test, designed to assess the fire resistance of plastic components. Several of these adaptors ignited when exposed to a 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 shows dangerous electrical goods are still accessible. He noted that a similar investigation less than a year prior found 15 dangerous travel adaptors on various online platforms.
The UK Government is currently considering new regulations that would hold online marketplaces accountable for the safety of products sold on their sites. Capanna urged the government to implement robust measures to ensure online platforms are responsible for preventing dangerous goods from reaching consumers.
Representatives from the online marketplaces addressed the findings. An Amazon spokesperson said the identified products have been removed from sale and that the company proactively monitors its store for safety alerts. eBay stated it has removed the identified listings and is conducting broader checks, utilizing technology, AI, and specialist teams to maintain a safe marketplace. AliExpress confirmed the removal of the identified listings and is initiating a recall for affected customers, also launching a review of similar listings. TikTok reported that it has removed the listings and videos promoting these products, emphasizing its commitment to customer safety and seller compliance with regulations.