Amazon Faces Legal Action Over Safety Concerns with Children’s Backpacks
Amazon is facing potential legal consequences after being accused of selling children’s backpacks that did not meet safety warning requirements. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has taken the company to court over the issue, which involves a line of toddler backpacks that came with a detachable light-up unicorn plush toy containing button batteries.
The ACCC alleges that the products lacked the required warning labels about the dangers of button batteries. These warnings are essential for ensuring that parents and caregivers are aware of the risks associated with such items. The watchdog claims that the affected backpacks were in Amazon’s Australian fulfillment centers between June 22 and November 1, 2022.
According to the ACCC, 41 of these backpacks were purchased by local buyers through Amazon’s Australian website, while 267 were in the company’s centers as of November 1, 2022. When the issue was raised, Amazon removed the product listing and reached out to customers to warn them of the potential danger.
Button batteries are commonly found in a variety of household items, including toys, remote controls, calculators, and musical greeting cards. They can pose serious health risks if ingested, especially by young children. A 2024 study led by the University of Sydney highlighted the severe injuries and complications that can occur within six hours of a child swallowing a button battery.
While the ACCC is not claiming that any children were harmed by the unicorn backpacks, it emphasized the significant safety risks associated with button batteries. “They can become stuck in a child’s throat and result in serious life-long injuries or death,” said Catriona Lowe, deputy chair of the ACCC. She added that children up to five years of age are at the greatest risk.
The ACCC is seeking various legal remedies, including declarations, penalties, costs, and other orders. Ms. Lowe noted that the maximum fine for corporations breaching Australian consumer law provisions is $50 million. However, she stressed that the final penalty would be determined by the court. “We will be seeking a penalty that reflects the seriousness of this conduct,” she said.
This case marks the first time the ACCC has taken an online marketplace to court. With more Australians shopping online, the watchdog aims to set a precedent that Australian consumer laws apply equally to companies like Amazon.
An Amazon spokesperson responded to the case, stating that the company is reviewing the matter. “Amazon is proud to be a founding signatory of the ACCC’s Online Product Safety Pledge, and we remain focused on providing the best experience for our Australian customers,” they said. “That includes continuing to work hard to ensure every product available in our store is safe and compliant with our policies and applicable regulations.”
