Recall for faulty power cables that could cause house fires

By Esther Han
Updated August 27 2014 - 11:08pm, first published 10:32pm
Authorities have recalled some brands of electric wiring over safety concerns. Photo: Supplied
Authorities have recalled some brands of electric wiring over safety concerns. Photo: Supplied

Tens of thousands of homes across Australia are at risk of catching fire because of faulty, non-compliant electrical cables installed in the past four years, the consumer watchdog warns.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says Infinity and Olsent cable ranges, sold widely through 18 retail groups including Masters Home Improvement, Thrifty and Mitre 10, could become brittle and spark fires from 2016 and onwards.

It suspects the faulty cabling is being used in as many as 40,000 homes and businesses in Australia. Of the 4000 kilometres of cable sold, nearly half - 1849 kilometres - was to New South Wales consumers between 2010 and 2013.

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