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  • For consumers
  • Using products safely
For consumers
  • Safety standards
  • Product recalls information
  • Report an unsafe product
  • Using products safely
    • Asbestos in sand products
    • Button batteries
    • Formaldehyde in clothing
    • Hot water bottles
    • Inclined infant sleep products
    • Ladders
    • Small high-powered magnets
    • Sunscreens
    • Wheat bags

Using products safely

Some consumer products have particular safety concerns or risks. Find out what you need to know and how to use these products safely.

In this section

  • Asbestos in sand products

    Some products made from or containing sand have been found to include small amounts of asbestos.

  • Button batteries

    Button batteries pose serious and potentially fatal risks if swallowed. Insertion into the ears or nose can also have serious consequences.

  • Formaldehyde in clothing

    Formaldehyde is used in a variety of industries, including the textile industry. We recommend washing and airing new clothes before wearing them.

  • Hot water bottles

    New hot water bottles that don't meet the specified version of the British Standard are banned under an unsafe goods notice.

  • Inclined infant sleep products

    Certain types of inclined infant sleep products are banned under an unsafe goods notice.

  • Ladders

    How to choose a ladder, assemble it correctly and use it safely.

  • Small high-powered magnets

    Small high-powered magnets can pose serious health risks if swallowed. Some of these magnets are now banned from sale in New Zealand.

  • Sunscreens

    Sunscreen products sold in New Zealand must meet mandatory requirements to help ensure SPF claims are reliable and products perform as expected.

  • Wheat bags

    Wheat bags pose a risk of fire or injury if not used properly.

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