Question & Answer Forum
Are the public really in danger? Aren't most cables capable of taking much larger loads than that shown?
It is not just cable loading that is the issue, but also materials and construction problems that could result in electric shock or fire. If we consider the Government's figures on fires cuased by faulty cables and wires, it is plain that the public are in danger. Over 27 percent of all electrical fires are attributed to faulty wire and cables. In the past five years there have been 1,200 non-fatal injuries and 15 fatalities
Why has the Government allowed unsafe, non-approved and counterfeit cables, of numbers up to 20 percent to enter the UK?
Current legislation (some of European origin)allows cable to be sold with few checks. It is assumed that all cables are made to British, European or International standards and that these Standards ensure cables are safe to use. It would be difficult for the Government to know that public safety has been threatened by these non-approved and counterfeit cables unless they receive information from the industry.
What authority does the ACI have in terms of investigating and penalising the electrical supply chain?
The support already given by a number of industry trade bodies demonstrates that the ACI is recognised as an authoritative organisation which is working to support current leglislation. It is hoped that through education more companies within the indsutry will follow this strong lead.
How are you working with Government bodies - HSE and Trading Standards? Are they fully supportive of ACI objectives
The ACI works with and takes guidance from these important Government departments, to help them understand the seriousness of the situation and to work with them to agree on the most appropriate enforcement action deemed necessary. Just recently the ACI has worked with the HSE regarding Atlas Kablo and the uncovering of more than 20 million metres of faulty cables in the UK market place.
Do you think unscrupulous importers take any notice of your campaign? They have been getting away with it so far and probably will continue to do so whilst the copper prices are high and the demand for copper products exists.
The ACI is highlighting any cases where we find unscrupulous practice and we encourage users to avoid such sources. We believe the introduction of new legislation would outlaw the import of non-approved and counterfeit cables and in doing so eradicate the problem - protecting the public from these dangers.
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The Approved Cable Initiative
The Approved Cables Initiative has been established to address the issue of unsafe, non-approved and counterfeit cable entering the UK marketplace. The first initiative of its kind in the electrical industry the ACI is direct in its approach to investigate and publicise the findings of cables found to be faulty, counterfeit or non-compliant with British, European or International Standards.
Industry Associations
