BSIF news analysis: Age restricted products

With product ranges such designed for professional use we all still need to be aware of the possible misuse and the potential acquisition of age restricted products, such as knives or corrosives, by underage members of the public.

There is a new Bill working its way through the Parliamentary process which, when it is made law guidance from Trading Standards and BSIF will seek to include this. The Offensive Weapons Bill – 3rd reading is on 19th March, and it is anticipated that it will progress swiftly. All being well it will receive Royal assent in early April.

The practice of challenging the age of customers is well established in the retail world, with its history in tobacco and alcohol, but perhaps not always so apparent in the business to business world.

Establishing an Age Verification Programme is essential in demonstrating that we are discharging our responsibilities.

Working with the support of Trading Standards we advise that a Challenge 25 Policy is undertaken as best practice this is especially important as Trade Shops have come to play an important part in the supply of PPE. It is also crucial to pay attention to and enforce an age verification policy for online sales, a frequent method of the under - age in acquiring restricted items.

Helpful general guidance can include:-

• Training of staff is key, document and record when training and refresher training is undertaken, signed by trainer and staff member.

• Monitor staff/check policy is being adhered to

• Refusals book/log – can be a book kept by the till or an electronic one.

• Till prompts – prompting staff to age check for certain products

• In store signage

• Accepted forms of ID are: Passport, Pass hologram Cards and Photo-card Driving licence