Stern warning on sale of laser pointers

Laser pointer products being sold as toys and similar articles werebanned from the market as they posed a serious risk to consumers, the Malta Standards Authority warned.

In a statement, it reminded importers and retailers that these laser pointers came in various shapes and sizes. It said that several types and makes were identified during inspections it carried out at retail outlets.

The MSA said that laser pointers of this type found on the market were of the Class III type, making them dangerous to consumers as they might cause partial or permanent blindness.

So their importation and placing on the market was being prohibited.

Retailers having such products on their shelves were requested to remove them with immediate effect and return them to their supplier.

Importers should make arrangements for the laser pointers to be withdrawn from the market with immediate effect.

Any retailer and/or importer found to be placing these laser pointers on the market would be liable to legal action, the MSA warned.

It advised consumers not to use these laser pointers and to return them to the place of purchase. Parents should advise their children to refrain from using these laser pointers, the MSA said.