The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is seeking public advice on the safety hazards posed by toppling furniture such as bookshelves, drawers and televisions.
The ACCC wants feedback from consumer safety advocates, the furniture and television industries, and medical professionals in relation to its Toppling Furniture and Televisions Issues Paper (August 2021).
Deputy Chair of the ACCC, Delia Rickard said there had been at least 27 deaths in Australia from toppling furniture and televisions since 2000.
“Most involved the toppling of storage furniture such as chests of drawers, televisions and the furniture that televisions are placed on,” Ms Rickard said.
“Children under the age of five are most at risk, followed by adults over 60.
“All age groups are at risk of injuries, including from the toppling of other furniture such as tables, desks and chairs.”
She said the weight of something like a bookshelf or large television falling on someone could result in serious injuries such as head injuries, broken bones, or death.
“Furniture and televisions, including ready-made products and flat-packs that require customers to self-assemble, are often large and heavy, with the weight located towards the front of the unit,” Ms Rickard said.
“The toppling risk increases when furniture is loaded with heavy items such as televisions, placing furniture on carpet, and through ordinary use such as opening drawers and doors which brings the weight of the unit further forward.
“The risk significantly increases when children climb furniture.”
She said feedback on the ACCC’s Issues Paper would help it to assess the factors affecting safety and the potential options which might be effective in reducing the risk of injury and death.
Ms Rickard said the consultation process closed on 30 August.
The ACCC’s 19-page Issues Paper can be accessed at this PS News link and information on how to have a say at this link.
