Consumers are being warned to check their vacuum cleaners following a national recall of a faulty vacuum cleaner that has the potential to cause electric shocks.

Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge said three Australian consumers – including one in NSW, ACT and QLD – have received electric shocks while using a Dyson DC05 Motorhead.

“Luckily no one has been seriously injured or killed,” Ms Judge said.

“Dyson Appliances (Australia) has removed the product voluntarily from the marketplace to ensure that consumers are not put at risk.

“However, if you own a Dyson DCO5 Motorhead you should stop using it immediately and call the manufacturer.

“The vacuum hose can detach from the wand handle and cause live electrical connections to be exposed.

“If these connections are touched while the machine is plugged in, there is a risk of electric shock and/or burns.”

The DC05 Motorhead was manufactured between 2000 and 2004 and is no longer sold in Australia or New Zealand. Nearly 9,000 units were sold across NSW at major national electrical retailers.

If you own a DC05 Motorhead:

• Unplug your machine
• If the hose is detached or loose, do not touch the exposed electrical connectors or operate the machine and call Dyson immediately and
• If the hose is secure, contact Dyson to arrange a replacement part to ensure the hose cannot detach in the future.

Consumers can also ask for a refund, but under the law a trader can offer repair, replacement or refund. In this case, Dyson are offering to replace and fix the faulty part.

Ms Judge said voluntary recalls play an important role in product safety in NSW.

“In Australia, the vast majority of recalls are voluntary and primarily the responsibility of the supplier,” she said.

For more information contact Dyson on 1800 275 397 between 8am and 4pm or visit www.recalls.gov.au.

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