EW editor, Debbie Eales.
Counterfeit and non-compliant goods are a concern for all members of the supply chain and it’s a growing problem that was recently drawn to our attention by Trade Skills 4 U, the electrical training provider.
According to Trade Skills 4 U, electrical components such as MCBs, RCDs and other wiring accessories, make up the main haul of counterfeit products intercepted by anti-counterfeiting officials.
Counterfeit MCBs and RCDs are particularly hard to spot as they are often branded with well-known names and the outer casing appears identical to the genuine product – even carrying certification marks and the same packaging. It is only on inspection of the inside do they reveal a very dangerous metal connection input to output and no actual mechanism at all meaning they will not perform their role. Counterfeit MCBs fitted to consumer units will not activate in the event of a power overload.
RCDs have also been found that do not comply with the latest standards, in particular the new Electro Magnetic Capability (EMC) standards which ensures that RCDs continue to work even when there are high levels of sensitive electrical equipment which have been known to have an effect on the reliability and functionality of an RCD.
Furthermore a small but significant change to the RCD manufacturing process includes the addition of an adjustable cable clamp that assists electrical contractors when installing the RCD allowing the cable to be adjusted so it is secure and ensures the cable cannot work loose over time.
Since 2000, an anti-counterfeiting campaign by BEAMA (British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers’ Association) has seen 15 million products seized by officials, the majority of which appear to be manufactured in China.
Trade Skills 4 U is urging electrical contractors to be vigilant and to purchase only genuine, certified products at manufacturer approved suppliers or established online outlets.
From our perspective, it is gratifying to see the industry pulling together to stamp out counterfeit goods. BEAMA has joined forces with a number of associations (including the EDA, ECA, BCA, LIF and ESC) to create a Charter in the fight to combat the trade in counterfeits and the proliferation of products failing to comply with the appropriate standards.
And there are BEAMA anti counterfeiting projects being carried out in a number of countries, including China, Jordan, Kuwait, Nigeria, Ghana, UAE, Iraq, East Africa and the UK.
Sadly, counterfeiting represents up to 15% of world trade. It is the world’s greatest form of theft with profits linked to organised crime, terrorism and money laundering.
We all have a responsibility to stamp out counterfeiting and stop the counterfeiters in their tracks.
DEBBIE EALES
