Trading Standards are responsible for ensuring that the goods businesses sell are safe. We routinely visit manufacturers and importers of goods such as toys and furniture to ensure that safety legislation is complied with.  We also respond to complaints from consumers and respond to other information about safety concerns.

Dangerous products

Some products are dangerous if they are not used with care or handled irresponsibly.  Trading Standards licence and inspect businesses that sell explosives (fireworks) and petroleum to ensure safe storage conditions are met. 

Underage sales

Trading Standards also enforce laws relating to underage sales of alcohol, fireworks, cigarettes and other age-restricted products  such as knives and spray paint. It is illegal to sell any of these products to a person under the age of 18.

Illicit tobacco

Research shows that price is the single biggest factor influencing smokers to quit. We work with others to help disrupt the sale of cheap and illicit tobacco in the City.

To report those engaged in any of the illegal activity described above, please contact us via Consumer Direct.

For more information please visit the Consumer Direct website or call Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506.