Children swallowing potential killer ­button batteries have prompted an industry pact for safer products

KAREN COLLIER
September 19, 2016
Herald Sun
THOUSANDS of children swallowing potential killer ­button batteries lurking in common electronic goods have prompted an industry pact for safer products and store warnings.
A new voluntary code designed to reduce injuries and deaths from ingesting the discs stipulates having safely designed devices, firmly secured batteries, and point-of-sale cautions for parents.
Businesses backing the guide will reconsider selling any goods containing coin-sized lithium button batteries, and boycott items that don’t comply with the code.
Stores are also being advised to place items beyond the reach of young children.
Despite pleas from consumer advocates, authorities have stopped short of demanding a compulsory standard for childproof battery compartments and packaging.
Children under five are at greatest risk from unsecured button batteries in devices such as TV remote controls, cameras, watches, calculators, greeting cards, scales, torches, toys and LED lights.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission deputy chair Delia Rickard warned tougher regulation had not been ruled out if the voluntary approach didn’t work.
An alarming 20 children a week are taken to Australian hospitals with suspected button battery exposure.