Internet buying – is it really that cheap?

The explosion of the internet and access to goods and markets worldwide is certainly a bonus for discerning customers – but the less initiated need to beware!!

HSE is currently following up an instance of a dangerous machine recently to be found on Ebay UK. The machines were imported to the UK from China and held in a bonded warehouse pending distribution once the ‘winning bidders’ had been notified - and paid-up. Unfortunately, what seems like a cheap piece of equipment failed to meet basic safety requirements and was not properly CE marked and certificated. Buyers are now left with machines that cannot legally be used at work unless brought up to a suitable standard.

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), users (employers and self-employed) have a duty to provide safe equipment that meets the standards set out in the European Machinery Directive – in effect the process of proper CE marking. While the CE mark itself is not a guarantee of safety, if the process is followed correctly then at least the manufacturer should have addressed basic safety issues.

In the case above, the company organising the sale is based in America which greatly compounds the problem. While HSE can, and has done so in the past, take legal action against a foreign company it is a long and tedious process. However, action has been taken to prevent further supply of machines from this source and it it hoped that the financial penalty this creates will send a clear message to the company involved.

So how can you protect yourself from being a victim of the unscrupulous seller? The easiest and simplest method is to deal with an established and reputable dealer – the extra you pay is for the service and guarantees you willreceive. If you buy from the internet do a bit of research – are there standards that the equipment needs to meet (bsonline.bsi-global.com)?

Don’t forget to ask questions – is it CE marked? Can I see the Declaration of Conformity? What about spares/repairs? What is the returns policy? Etc.etc.

All this can help prevent you from making a mistake which could cost you an arm and a leg – literally!

• Buying new machinery – a short guide to law and information for anyone buying new machinery