UOKiK alerts after grill control. Most popular models endanger tragedy

The grill period in Poland reaches its highest and with it the sale of outdoor amusement equipment grows. Unfortunately, behind the idyllic atmosphere of meetings on the decision may be a serious threat. The Office for Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) published results of carbon grill control, which are alarming. The Trade Inspectors took 14 popular models and discovered that up to 9 of them, or nearly 65%, have serious structural defectswhich can lead to burns or even fire. These results cast a shadow on the safety of 1 of Poles' favourite summertime rituals and constitute an urgent informing to all who plan to grill in the close future. UOKiK emphasizes that unstable base, besides thin sheet metallic or dangerously protruding elements are only any of the problems detected. These disadvantages make the usage of specified equipment unpredictable and risky, especially in the presence of children.

Poles love barbecue. What kind of equipment do they usually bet on?

Grilling is more than just a way for Poles to prepare a meal. It's a social ritual, a symbol of summers, holidays and gatherings among the closest ones. Especially in August, during a long weekend, the odor of roasted necks and sausages floats over parcel gardens, terraces and parks across the country. Although many types of equipment are available on the market, 1 of them enjoys unwavering popularity and cult status.

The unquestionable king of the Polish feast is carbon grill. Its popularity is primarily due to the unique, smokey aroma it gives the dishes. For many people it is simply a taste of real, conventional grilling, which cannot be faked. Although it takes more time to ignite and control the temperature, its simplicity and comparatively low price make visitors in millions of Polish homes. It was this sentiment and universality that made UOKiK decide to look at it closely.

Of course, there are besides alternatives in the market. More and more people, especially those who value comfort, choose gas grills. Their top advantage is fast warming and precise temperature control, making it easier to prepare more demanding dishes. For the residents of the blocks, the perfect solution is electric grillswhich can be safely utilized on balconies. Despite the increasing popularity of these modern solutions, it is the classical carbon grill that remains at the centre of attention – both consumers and, unfortunately, controllers from the Trade Inspection.

UOKiK took the grills under the microscope. Control results are alarming.

The Commercial Inspection, acting on behalf of UOKiK, conducted detailed studies of 14 models of coal grills available in Polish stores. The results, published in the authoritative communication, are profoundly disturbing. As many as 9 of the products examined, or almost 2 thirds, did not meet the basic safety standards. The disadvantages were serious adequate to pose a real threat to the wellness and life of users.

Inspectors have identified a number of critical structural problems. The most common repeated irregularities were:

• Unstable basis: Grilles were easy wobbly, threatening to rotation over during usage and spill hot coal.
• Too thin sheet: The material from which the furnace was made was of specified mediocre quality that it could burn under advanced temperature. This creates a hazard of heat falling out and setting fire.
• Sharp and protruding elements: any models found unprotected, sharp edges or screws (e.g. in the lid) which may have caused cuts or serious burns at random touch.
• Overheating of the structure: The full device, including elements that should stay cool, reached dangerously advanced temperatures, expanding the hazard of burns.

The inspection besides showed problems with the marking – in 1 case, the plan was incompatible with the manufacturer's declaration and in another there were no appropriate labels. Interestingly, most of the contested models came from imports. As many as 9 grills investigated were produced in China, 3 in Poland and 2 in another European Union countries. This shows that the problem concerns products from different sources of distribution.

Your grill could be dangerous. How to check and what to do?

In the light of the results of the inspection of the UOKiK, each owner of the coal grill should exercise peculiar care and independently verify the safety of his equipment. Before you light the coal for your next meeting, take a fewer minutes for a simple inspection that can prevent tragedy. First of all, check the stableness of the device. Put the grill on an even surface and mildly decision it. If the plan is unstable, it should not be used.

Then watch the stove and grate carefully. Note the thickness of the sheet metallic and look for possible burns, cracks or excessive corrosion. If the material appears thin and distorted, there is simply a hazard that it will not withstand advanced temperature. besides check all handles, lid and legs for sharp edges or protruding screws that could origin damage. erstwhile utilizing the grill, always remember the basic safety principles: set it distant from flammable materials, never leave it unattended and keep the children and animals distant from the heated device.

What if you announcement flaws in your grill? First of all, it should be stopped. If the equipment is fresh and covered by the guarantee, you must immediately study the problem to the seller or manufacturer, requesting a change or refund. UOKiK recalls that for placing defective products on the marketplace there are severe financial penalties, up to PLN 100 thousand, which should motivate companies to take care of the quality of the scope offered.