WELS Update
1. More inspectors in the field
Now that the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Act 2005 is in full force an increasing number of WELS inspectors are out in the field checking compliance with the Act.
They are visiting retailers in all states and territories to ensure that products are being correctly labelled prior to supply to consumers.
WELS inspectors have significant monitoring and investigation powers. They are able to enter public premises, such as retail or hardware stores, unannounced and:
· inspect and purchase WELS products
· inspect any advertising or other written documents
· discuss product features and
· observe practices relating to the supply of products within the public area of the premises.
In other areas of a business premises, such as a warehouse, inspectors may, with the consent of the owner:
· search the premises and anything (including vehicles) on the premises
· conduct tests on the premises
· take photographs and make video/audio recordings
· inspect records (it is an offence not to supply records when asked by an inspector) and
· take extracts or make copies of records and use equipment as required on the premises.
2. Whitegoods regulation impact statement out for comment soon
A regulation impact statement on the possible inclusion of minimum water use efficiency standards for water-using whitegoods in the WELS scheme is expected to be released for public comment in coming weeks.
The study (Minimum water efficiency standards for clothes washers and dishwashers and water efficiency labelling of combined washer/dryers) looks at options for making further water savings in the home on top of those already being made through the introduction of the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) Scheme in 2005.
Interested individuals, organisations and business will be invited to submit their comments to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts over a six-week period.
3. New market research results
New market research into awareness of the WELS label indicates that water efficiency labels are becoming increasingly well recognised among consumers and some non-consumers.
The research, commissioned by the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, however, suggests that further promotion will help the labels to become a mainstream means for comparing water-using appliances prior to purchase.
For more information see www.waterrating.gov.au