When you shop at appliance stores in the Philippines, the performance and price of appliances are often the main concerns. That being said, another factor that’s just as important is safety. This is why the Philippines government has set specific standards to protect consumers from unsafe or substandard products.
Knowing how to check for safety compliance can help you make smarter purchases. So now, let’s walk you through what to look for when shopping. We’ll help you find products that meet these standards.
Understanding Appliance Safety Standards
The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) is the government agency that guarantees certain products are safe for public use (household appliances are included). They have a mandatory certification program that requires manufacturers and importers to comply with specific Philippine National Standards (PNS). These standards are put in place to protect you from potential hazards like fire, electric shock, and other malfunctions.
Why Compliance Matters
Purchasing a non-compliant appliance can pose a real threat to your home and family. Without proper certification, you can never be sure if a product has gone through the proper testing for quality and safety. These may have faulty wiring, substandard components, or design flaws that could lead to accidents.
The Marks to Look For
To show that an appliance has been certified and has met the national standards, it must carry one of two marks: the Philippine Standard (PS) Mark or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Mark. It is your responsibility as a buyer to look for these marks. They are the official symbols that the DTI-BPS has checked the product and confirmed its compliance.
The Philippine Standard (PS) Mark
The PS Mark is a symbol that you will find on appliances that were manufactured locally in the Philippines. It certifies that the manufacturer’s entire production process has undergone a review and its products have met the required PNS. This mark is usually affixed to the product itself, and sometimes its packaging.
The Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Mark
Appliances that are brought into the country from other countries, or imported, must have the ICC Mark. This mark is a sticker that is placed on each item after the DTI-BPS has inspected and tested a specific shipment to make sure it complies with local standards. It is the importer’s responsibility to secure this clearance before the products are distributed to appliance stores.
How to Check for Compliance
In Physical Stores
When you’re out shopping at these stores (e.g., major retailer or a specialty shop), take a moment to inspect the product you are interested in. You should be able to find the PS or ICC mark on the appliance itself or on its packaging. If you can’t find it, don’t hesitate to ask a sales representative. They should be able to show you where the mark is. Reputable stores only stock products that have these marks.
Verifying the Marks
The DTI-BPS has made it easier for consumers to confirm the authenticity of these marks. For the ICC sticker, you can use a special mobile application to scan the QR code. This will tell you if the sticker is authentic and was issued by the DTI-BPS.
As for the PS Mark, you can verify a product’s certification on the DTI-BPS website. You can also contact the DTI-BPS directly to check if a specific product or brand has a valid license.
The Role of Top Appliance Stores
In the Philippines, major appliance stores like Abenson and Anson’s are integral in a consumer’s ability to find safe products. For these individuals, these stores are an excellent source for appliances that are already certified.
A Reliable Source
Top appliance stores have a reputation to uphold. They only deal with legitimate manufacturers and importers who have completed the necessary certification processes. So what does this mean? This means that a large part of the work is done for you. When you shop at a well-known store, you can be more confident that the products on their shelves have the correct marks.
Customer Assistance
The sales staff at these stores are also valuable resources. Ask them, and they’ll answer your questions about the certifications. They can also help you locate the PS or ICC marks on products. This way, you’ll feel more confident with your purchase and understand better the different products available.
Key Takeaway
Choosing an appliance goes far beyond prices and looks. It’s also about the safety of your home and your family. In appliance stores in the Philippines, the PS Mark and the ICC Mark are your guides to finding products that meet national safety standards. Look for these marks, and shop at trusted appliance stores. This way, you can make a purchase that not only adds to your home’s convenience but also to its safety.
Leave a Reply