March 15, 2024, 10:40 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The Stiftung Warentest has discovered significant safety defects in a children’s headphone. The manufacturer is now recalling the product. TECHBOOK knows what affected customers can do.
Carcinogenic, reproductive toxic, intelligence-reducing–the effects of pollutants on the human body can be devastating. It’s no wonder the EU has set limits for dangerous substances in everyday devices. In a recent investigation, Stiftung Warentest found that a children’s headphone from TechniSat exceeds these EU limits by a significant margin. The manufacturer subsequently announced the recall of the affected model.
Pollutants in the “Technifant Hörchen BT”
In the “Technifant Hörchen BT” model, Stiftung Warentest detected critical amounts of the plasticizer diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and short-chain chlorinated paraffins. The latter are suspected carcinogens, while DEHP can be reproductive toxic, hormonally active, and also carcinogenic. The plastic coating of the cable is affected–a part of the headphones that children notoriously like to put in their mouths.
According to Stiftung Warentest, TechniSat responded quickly to the pollutant report with the statement: “We were shocked by the test results. […] We immediately halted the product’s distribution.” The sale is stopped, and the recall is underway.
How the Recall Works
Owners of the “Technifant Hörchen BT” children’s headphones can contact TechniSat’s customer service by phone or online via a contact form. Select the category “Technical Inquiry/Help with Problem Solving” and then the topic area “Technifant.” The hotline number is (0 39 25) 92 20 18 00 and is available weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Upon request, the headphone cable can be replaced or the entire headphone returned. In this case, customers will receive a full refund. But potentially harmful substances aren’t only found in plastics. Batteries should also be checked regularly–especially in children’s toys. Occasionally, these small energy storage units can leak, and caution is advised.