GNBS seizes thousands of substandard electrical fittings

Some of the substandard items seized and destroyed by GNBS inspectors
Some of the substandard items seized and destroyed by GNBS inspectors

Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Inspectors on Friday, June 24, 2022, destroyed more than 5,000 pieces of substandard electrical fittings that were seized from businesses during the months of May and June 2022.

In a press release, the GNBS said the poor quality and improperly labelled items were discovered and confiscated during the ongoing countrywide surveillance activities conducted by the GNBS’ Product Compliance Department in order to rid the marketplace of products that do not meet the requirements of the respective National Standards.

“Many of the seized items were held for the stipulated twenty-one (21) days period as the GNBS awaited the submission of test certificates by importers and dealers attesting to their quality. These stakeholders failed to submit valid test certificates which prompted the destruction and disposal of the products,” it explained, while noting that the destroyed items include extension cords, lamp holders, receptacles, power strips, cables, electrical breakers, and plugs.

Noting that the monitoring of products through inspections at the ports of entry, and sale outlets remains crucial to ensure user safety and value for money, the GNBS said it will continue to aggressively monitor the products falling under its purview to ensure adherence to quality and labelling requirements.

It also urged importers and dealers to understand and adhere to the requirements for products imported and offered for sale to ensure compliance and consumer safety.