Tough New Laws To Make Online Marketplaces Reduce The Risk Of Fire
The UK Government has taken a major step toward making online shopping safer with the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which has now received Royal Assent. As part of the broader Plan for Change, the new legislation strengthens consumer protection by holding online marketplaces to the same safety standards as traditional high street retailers.
The Act empowers regulators to address emerging product safety threats, particularly the growing number of fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters, many of which have been traced back to unsafe products sold through online platforms.
Responding to a Rising Threat
The Office for Product Safety and Standards received 211 reports of fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters in 2024 roughly one every 1.7 days. Most incidents (175) were reported by London Fire Brigade, with many linked to substandard batteries purchased online. To tackle these risks, the Government will soon introduce new responsibilities for online marketplaces, forming a proportionate and enforceable regulatory framework. Under the forthcoming rules, online platforms will be expected to:
- Prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers
- Ensure third-party sellers comply with product safety laws
- Provide clear and relevant safety information to consumers
- Work closely with regulators to monitor and enforce compliance
A Level Playing Field for Retail
Product Safety Minister Justin Madders said: “By giving regulators the teeth to clamp down on unsafe products, we’re ensuring people can shop with confidence, whether online or on the high street. This Act helps create a level playing field, backing responsible businesses and protecting consumers.” The new measures will support around 300,000 UK businesses operating in regulated product markets, which collectively generate an estimated £490 billion in turnover.
Building on Safety Initiatives
The Act builds on initiatives like the “Buy Safe, Be Safe” campaign, launched in October, and recent guidance on lithium-ion battery safety released in December. It also supports ongoing work to remove dangerous items such as button batteries and high-powered magnets from circulation. The Office for Product Safety and Standards will continue its targeted enforcement programmes, while regulators will gain the authority to impose tough penalties on platforms and sellers that fail to comply.
Strong Backing from Safety Advocates
The legislation has been widely welcomed across the safety and consumer protection community. Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Which?, said: “This Act could be a game changer. For too long, consumers have been exposed to unsafe—sometimes lethal—products sold online. The government must now act quickly to clarify the definition of online marketplaces, establish clear accountability, and empower regulators to issue meaningful fines.” Charlie Pugsley, Deputy Commissioner at London Fire Brigade, added: “We see an e-bike or e-scooter fire nearly every two days. This legislation is a crucial step in making online platforms safer and reducing fire risk from poor quality battery products.” John Herriman, Chief Executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, also praised the move: “This law strengthens the vital work of Trading Standards and helps build a fairer, safer marketplace for all. We look forward to helping shape the next phase through further consultation.”
What’s Next?
Following Royal Assent, the Government will begin consultations to finalise the details of the new responsibilities for online marketplaces. The goal: a modern, future-facing regulatory system that safeguards the public while supporting innovation and growth across the UK economy.
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