Recall on dodgy Panda Mart lamps that pose electrocution risk

Hundreds of dodgy lamps that can deliver electric shocks to customers are being recalled to Panda Mart, in the latest product safety warning at the Chinese discount retailer.

Chinese discount retailer Panda Mart is facing a recall on dodgy lamps with exposed wiring that could electrocute customers.

Energy Safe Victoria seized 902 lamps after discovering safety hazards, including exposed wires and live parts which if touched could deliver an electric shock.

But its believed hundreds of the desk lamps have been sold since Panda Mart first opened in Cranbourne on February 27, with Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson warning people to immediately stop using them.

“If you have one, don’t use it. Unplug it immediately and return it to Panda Mart for a full refund. These lamps have exposed live parts, poorly insulated wires and protective covers that easily fall off,” she said.

“In some of them, if you were to put your hand in the wrong place, you would get an electric shock.”

Energy Safe Victoria says the dodgy lamps never should have made it to shelves.

Ms Hughson said they discovered the lamps following routine inspections by compliance officers.

“These products should never have made it to the shelves in the first place,” she said.

“Victorians should never buy electrical equipment unless it displays the regulatory compliance mark. This mark shows that the equipment meets safety standards.”

Energy Safe also found other products that didn’t pass safety standards including a desk with electric socket outlets where the installation brought the user into contact with live parts.

On March 5, just a week after Panda Mart opened its doors, Consumer Affairs inspectors seized thousands of products that failed to meet mandatory product safety and information standards.

Panda Mart has attracted big crowds since opening in Cranbourne earlier this year. Picture: Supplied

Baby toys that contained button batteries were removed as well as other items that presented an injury risk, such as projectiles and choking and strangulation hazards.

The dramas for Panda Mart began on opening day, with managers of the store forced to recruit extra security and even call Victoria Police, after massive crowds came flocking through the doors.

Violent thieves last month raided the store, described as “Temu in real life”.

Footage emerged of security, staff and a guitar wielding customer confronting the group of thugs.

Three people have since been arrested over the March 28 incident.