Japan's 400+ Battery Fires: Lawyer Calls for Better Recall Notifications
Alarmingly, over 400 fires in Japan between 2019 and 2022 have been linked to lithium-ion battery products. These incidents, including a recent Tokyo train fire, have caused injuries. Lawyer Nakamura Masato has proposed enhancing public notification methods for recalls, as current practices may not effectively reach consumers.
The Consumer Affairs Agency has recorded at least 400 fires involving lithium-ion battery products since January 2019. These include portable chargers, batteries for power-assisted bicycles, and personal computers. At least 100 of these fires were suspected to be caused by recalled products. In July 2022, a fire caused by a recalled portable charger injured five people on the JR Yamanote Line in Tokyo.
Manufacturers or distributors decide how to notify the public about recalls. However, these methods may not always reach consumers, leading to potential safety hazards. Lawyer Nakamura Masato suggests improving public notification methods, such as using repeated emails or postcards, to ensure consumers are adequately informed about recalled products.
The high number of fires linked to recalled lithium-ion battery products in Japan is a cause for concern. While manufacturers decide how to notify the public about recalls, these methods may not always be effective. Lawyer Nakamura Masato's proposal to enhance notification methods could help prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of consumers.
