Overview
- The ACCC has issued 17 separate recalls of portable power banks since 2020, with more than half enacted in the past year.
- Rechargeable lithium-ion and lithium-polymer cells in affected models can overheat, explode or emit toxic gas when improperly manufactured or damaged.
- Major brands including Anker, Baseus, Belkin, Cygnett, Quad Lock and SnapWireless have had units recalled following incidents that caused burns and property damage, with the Baseus BS-30KP365 linked to 76 reports.
- Under ACCC recall notices, suppliers are required to offer full refunds or free replacements for returned units upon proof of purchase.
- After a January in-flight fire, Singapore Airlines and Qantas have banned onboard charging of power banks and Virgin Australia now mandates that spares remain in carry-on baggage only.