If a product poses a risk
All products must comply with statutory requirements and be as safe as can be reasonably expected given the product group in question.
For example, an electrical product must not cause a risk of electric shock, or toys for children under 3 years of age must not have small parts that can come loose. However, tools like knives must be sharp so that they can be used for cutting, but on the other hand, soft toys must not have blades that can cause similar injuries.
If a product poses a risk and does not comply with statutory requirements, Tukes can take the necessary measures and, for example, require that the sale of the product is suspended.
Information on products that are found to be dangerous or non-compliant can be found in the following sources, among others:
What to do if a product poses a risk
If you notice that a product is dangerous, always start by contacting the company you purchased the product from. Contact the company as soon as possible after noticing the defect. Negotiate with the company for a repair, replacement, compensation or complete cancellation of the sale.
Report the product to Tukes
(Report form in Finnish, Market surveillance register). It is also possible to submit the report anonymously.
Report the product to Tukes even if you had a full refund or a new product, or the company repaired the defective product. This is important because even if everything hopefully came up roses in your case, some other person using the product may not be as lucky. After being informed, Tukes can take the necessary measures. Each company is, for its own part, responsible for ensuring that the products are safe.
Tukes has no authority to order payment of damages or compensation to the consumer. Tukes does not monitor the realisation of the Consumer Protection Act.
If you cannot reach an agreement with the company
If you cannot reach an agreement with the company on the procedure concerning your product, it is advisable to consult the consumer rights advisors or the European Consumer Centre for guidance. Contact a consumer advisor or the European Consumer Centre if, for example, the company cannot repair the product and does not want to cancel the sale or replace the product with a flawless one.
The consumer rights advisors will advice in disputes with companies located in Finland, and the European Consumer Centre can help you if you have made a purchase, for example, from an online store of a company located in another EU Member State, Norway or Iceland.
Tukes has no authority over companies located outside Finland. However, Tukes can request the relevant authorities of another country to investigate the issue, provided that the company in question is located in another EU or EEA state.