New powers would allow the Queensland government to crack down on dodgy e-scooters and faulty batteries, which have been blamed for a spate of house fires. Read more about the potential changes:
The discussion paper said lithium-ion batteries exposed to trauma could lead to a higher risk of explosion, fire and leaking of hazardous chemicals, and factors understood to have led to previous incidents included continuously charging once a battery was at capacity, getting the battery pack wet, damage, and using an incorrect charger.
“Contributing to the contemporary ELV [extra-low voltage] equipment risk landscape is the increase in cheaper products on the market that are sometimes poor quality,” the paper reads.“Purchasing these products online rather than in stores can make it difficult for consumers to be as informed about the safety of these products.”
The paper also warned of an increase in customers doing DIY alterations after buying equipment online and following advice from social media, leading to potential shock, fires, burns or explosions. The spokeswoman said the review suggested extra low voltage equipment posed an electrical safety risk and should be included in the definition of electrical equipment, and therefore also covered by safety rules.
“Should a decision be made to include extra low voltage equipment within the definition of electrical equipment, the safety framework of the Electrical Safety Act, including ministerial powers to recall unsafe electrical equipment, could be applicable,” she said.“The key issues in the discussion paper include the electrical safety considerations of new and emerging technologies, and the changing landscape of electricity in the workforce,” she said.
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