Welwyn Hatfield Trading Standards day sees thousands of items seized

On Tuesday, November 4, the Herts Trading Standards team visited businesses around Welwyn Hatfield in order to establish and raise their level of compliance with consumer protection legislation, to protect residents and support a level playing field for the businesses.

Thousands of cigarettes, vapes and tobacco products were seized. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

Traders found to be acting unlawfully had thousands of cigarettes, vapes and tobacco products seized, as well as some electrical items.

Stores that sell age restricted products (such as knives and alcohol) were visited to check they are taking appropriate steps to avoid selling to children.

Ten inspections of businesses selling fireworks were also carried out, with all recording high levels of compliance.

35 food sampling visits sought to inspect allergen management systems, food composition and accurate labelling. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

Weights and measures inspections ensured weighing and measuring equipment is accurate and fair, so consumers get what they pay for. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

The day also included product safety engagement visits, sampling visits to those selling food, weights and measures inspections at greengrocers, butchers, pubs and jewellers, animal health checks at livestock farms, and visits to letting agents and second hand car dealers, and doorstep trading checks in conjunction with Herts police.

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More than 100 businesses were visited who were found to have an overall good level of compliance with consumer product legislation.

Enforcement agents, with Herts police, spoke to traders about their legal obligations when working in residents’ homes, and homeowners were advised of their statutory rights. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

A Herts Trading Standards spokesperson said: “This day of action sends a clear message that we will act against businesses that aren't complying with consumer protection legislation, but also to promote the guidance and resources available to businesses.

"The initiative was a success in not only offering support and advice but also in identifying and removing non-compliant products from the market.

“If any businesses are unclear about the regulations and their responsibilities, our Trading Standards team can provide advice and support to help them operate in a safe and legal way.”

Hertfordshire Trading Standards, operated by the county council, is the enforcement agency responsible for protecting consumers, working with businesses and acting against rogue traders.

Livestock farms were visited to ensure animals are being kept in accordance with animal health and welfare legislation. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)