Producers and distributors have for many years been obliged by product safety legislation to provide information and warnings as to the risk their products posed where these risks were not obvious and where necessary, to provide instructions adequate to consumer needs as to the safe operation/use of the product.

The General Product regulations 2005 maintain that requirement. The following standards are currently not called up in specific legislation but may assist with demonstrating due diligence under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

Fire damage caused by candles can be attributed to improper use by the consumer. The risk of fire can be minimised by suitable warnings to the consumer. In September 2007 the labelling requirements of candles changed due to the publication of European Standard BS EN 15494:2007 - Candles - Product Safety Labels.

This standard specifies the format and content of product warning labels for indoor candles. The standard requires that all information supplied with a candle is presented in a clear format on the product and should be easily and non-verbally comprehensive. Such warnings may be on the product or packaging itself or available as a separate leaflet if appropriate.

It is a requirement that the General Warning Sign (table one) be included in all labelling, preferably in a coloured graphic. In addition under the standard there are four mandatory safety messages which must be included on all labels (table one). The warning message may be given as a pictogram or as text. If text is used, it must be in the language of the country where the candles are being sold.

In addition to the minimum safety information as outlined above, the standard encourages the use of optional safety information (table two) where appropriate.

Do not place candles in a draught

Do not place candles near a source of heat

Place candles in an upright position

Trim wick to about 1 cm before lighting

Always snuff out the candle. Do not blow it out

Always use a candleholder

Keep the wax pool clear and clear of matches and other debris to avoid flaring

Do not move a burning candle

Never use liquid to extinguish

 

• Only use tea lights in holders/warming stoves with sufficient ventilation

   

• Use a suitable glass or holder as these candles liquify when burning.