The Minister for Financial Services & Regulation, Joe Hockey, today announced the introduction of a new safety-warning label on elastic luggage straps.
"The new safety warning label will improve consumer awareness of the dangers of elastic luggage straps," the Minister said.
"Studies have shown that there is a continuing level of injuries associated with elastic luggage straps, which can be reduced by improved safety information.
"The use of well-known black and yellow safety colours will enhance the visibility of the warning.
The updated standard is the result of a recently completed review of the mandatory standard under the Trade Practices Act 1974. The review confirmed the need for regulation to continue mandatory labelling of elastic luggage straps.
"Without mandatory labelling, the dangers associated with the use of elastic luggage straps would not be apparent to consumers," the Minister said
"The revised labelling through requiring safety colours and additional warnings, will ensure that all consumers receive the same safety information and assist government in enforcing the labelling standard."
The new warning label contains the words "WARNING. Avoid eye injury. DO NOT overstretch. ALWAYS keep face and body out of recoil path. DO NOT use when strap has visible signs of wear or damage" and is required to be in black letters on a yellow background.
The regulations provide time for retailers and manufacturers to adjust to the new requirements, by allowing the sale of elastic luggage straps meeting the old mandatory standard up until 31 May 2001.