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Businesses have been warned they face tough action after a string of Middlesbrough stores illegally sold corrosive substances to a teenager.
Retailers are being told to clean up their act after all those visited during a Trading Standards operation failed to carry out the required checks.
One premises even asked their age but then continued to sell the product.
During a test purchasing survey a 16-year-old visited a string of convenience stores, hardware stores and a garage where they were sold bleach, oven cleaners, drain cleaners, descaling products and bathroom cleaners, all of which contained corrosive substances.
Under the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 it is an offence to sell corrosive products to anyone under 18. Retailers should:
- Ask for identification, using systems such as Challenge 25
- Operate the system – no ID, no sale!
Further follow-up action will now be undertaken with the 15 premises, alongside a warning sounded to businesses across the town to ensure staff are aware of the sales requirements for such products.
Judith Hedgley, Middlesbrough Council’s Head of Public Protection, said: “These results are shocking and show a total breakdown of age-restricted procedures which are designed to prevent young people from getting hold of products dangerous to their own health and that of others.
“Our officers will be working with businesses to ensure they tighten up their procedures to ensure that this doesn’t happen again – there will be no second chances.
“While on this occasion only a survey took place, in future more formal action will be taken.”
Councillor Janet Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Sales of age-restricted products to young people can have a huge impact on crime and disorder in the community and on people’s long-term health.
“This survey by Trading Standards has highlighted a major issue, and one which requires retailers to remain vigilant and comply with the law.
“In the wrong hands these products can lead to serious injury and even death, so those selling them bear a considerable responsibility.
“There can be no room for complacency, and our officers will continue to identify and address premises of concern and where necessary take the appropriate enforcement action.”
- Anyone with information on the sale of corrosive products to young people can contact Trading Standards in confidence on 01642 728223 or email EHTS@middlesbrough.gov.uk
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