Scene 1 (0s)
[Audio] Similar in appearance and sold online as a suitable replacement counterfeit and knockoff circuit protection products are likely to be unsafe. The counterfeit and knockoff products are intended to fool the unsuspecting consumer and even some contractors. Unfortunately these counterfeit and knockoff circuit protection products are not suitable for any application where there is a requirement to meet electrical code or safety certifications such as Underwriters Laboratories. These potentially dangerous products are failing to provide adequate protection for homes buildings or nearly anywhere they are installed. This industry-wide issue impacting reputable manufacturers the world over. The good news is that this is a preventable problem. It is important that you are aware of the key features and characteristics of a genuine product which will help you more easily identify a suspect product. An educated consumer or contractor will be better prepared to avoid online listings of counterfeit and knockoff products. However taking the next step to report suspect products to the original manufacturer or local authorities will enable the removal of these products from the ecommerce platforms that they are frequently being sold on. This paper will provide important information to help you identify counterfeit or knockoff electrical circuity protection technologies and better understand the risks associated with this issue. When counterfeit or knockoff circuit protection technologies fail there’s dramatically increased risk of failure fire injury and property damage. A homeowner may not fully realize this. A circuit breaker is a critical part of safely using and managing the homes electrical power. An electrical contractor would face the financial liability for an incident resulting from the installation of a counterfeit or knockoff product. It is vital to safety that a homeowner or contractor only purchase and install genuine products. Purchasing only authentic products from reputable manufacturers and their authorized representatives is the best way to mitigate the risk is counterfeit and knockoff products. It’s also important to use only products that are listed by the manufacturer to meet the intended electrical standard such as a UL product listing. incorporate reference on minimum performance specs later ….