Product Safety and Recalls
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UK Acts of Parliament, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
UK National Law
What is this right?
All consumer products sold in the UK must be safe. Key protections:
- Under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, manufacturers are strictly liable for damage caused by defective products — you don't need to prove they were negligent.
- Under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005, all products must be safe when used normally. Unsafe products must be recalled.
- The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) monitors recalls and can order products off the market.
If a defective product injures you or damages your property (over £275), you can claim compensation from the manufacturer without proving fault — this is strict liability.
When does it apply?
- A product you bought or were given caused injury or damage because it was defective.
- Claims must be brought within 3 years of the injury or damage (or 3 years from when you became aware of it), and there's an absolute 10-year limit from when the product was put into circulation.
- The product must have been defective — meaning its safety is not what people are generally entitled to expect.
- This covers all consumer products: electrical items, toys, cosmetics, food, vehicles, furniture, and more.
What should you do?
- Stop using the product and keep it as evidence.
- Report the product to the OPSS at productrecall.campaign.gov.uk or your local Trading Standards office.
- Check gov.uk for current product recalls — if your product has been recalled, follow the instructions (usually return for a refund or replacement).
- If you're injured, seek medical attention and keep records. You may have a product liability claim.
- For a product liability claim, consult a personal injury solicitor — many work on a no-win, no-fee basis.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't throw away a dangerous product — it's evidence for any claim and for the safety investigation.
- Don't ignore product recalls — recalled products have been found to be dangerous. Check registrations and follow recall instructions.
- Don't modify products in ways not intended by the manufacturer — this can void your claim if the modification caused the problem.
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