When choosing electrical products, it is especially important to pay attention to whether or not they have a PSE mark.
This mark indicates that the product meets the safety standards stipulated by Japanese law, and is an essential indicator for choosing safe products.
We will explain in order why safety marks are necessary for electrical products, what the “compliance” indicated by the PSE mark specifically means, the benefits of consumers checking the mark, the relationship with the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law, and the potential risks of products without the mark.
Why safety marks are necessary for electrical products
Electrical products enrich and make our lives more convenient, but depending on their structure and how they are used, they can cause serious accidents such as fire and electric shock.
In particular, electrical appliances used daily and electrical equipment used for long periods of time often have hidden risks.
In order to prevent such accidents and allow consumers to use products safely, a “safety mark” indicating that the products meet the safety standards set by the national government is indispensable.
The PSE mark is an important indicator for this purpose.
What the PSE mark indicates
It is important to note that this mark is not a “certification” by the government that individually inspects products, but a “compliance mark” that businesses who manufacture or import products display after taking the procedures stipulated by law (business notification, technical standard conformity confirmation, inspection, etc.) and taking responsibility for it.
In other words, it is proof that the business declares that “this product meets Japanese safety standards.”
Ms. GadgetDoes having the PSE mark mean that accidents will never happen?
Mr. GadgetThe PSE mark indicates that the product meets the minimum safety standards set by the government, and that safety is ensured if used correctly.
The PSE mark is a reliable indicator for choosing safe products.
Benefits for consumers in checking the PSE mark
Especially in recent times, when a wide variety of products are sold online, it is important to develop a habit of checking the PSE mark in addition to price and design, in order to avoid inferior or dangerous products.
If an accident occurs due to a product, even in that case, if the product has a PSE mark, there is a higher possibility that the response based on the Product Liability (PL) Law will proceed smoothly.
Relationship with the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law
The PSE mark is operated based on the “Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law”.
The main purpose of this law is to prevent danger and damage caused by electrical appliances.
The Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law regulates many electrical products (457 items as of 2023) sold in Japan, and obligates manufacturers and importers to comply with the national safety standards and display the PSE mark.
In other words, the PSE mark is an important system to ensure the safety of electrical products within the legal framework of the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law.
Potential risks of products without the mark
Such products are at a higher risk of causing serious accidents such as smoking, fire, and electric shock due to design defects or poor quality parts.
In addition, if an accident occurs, there is a possibility that you will not be able to receive appropriate compensation because the product is from a business that has not fulfilled its obligations under the law.
Ms. GadgetFor safety’s sake, you should avoid purchasing or using products without the PSE mark.
The basics of the PSE mark: the difference between “diamond” and “circle”
When looking at the PSE mark you see when choosing electrical products, did you know that there are actually two types?
The meaning differs depending on the shape of the mark, and understanding this difference is very important for choosing safe products.
Here, we will explain in detail the diamond-shaped PSE mark indicating Specified Electrical Products and the circular PSE mark indicating Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products.
We will also delve into the difference in safety assurance level and the difference in obligations of the business, and the difference in displayed information.
Please refer to the comparison table below for which mark is on which product.
| Item | Diamond PSE Mark | Circular PSE Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Target Category | Specified Electrical Products | Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products |
| Number of Items | 116 items | 341 items |
| Main Features | Products that require particularly high safety | A wide range of electrical products other than Specified Electrical Products |
| Inspection Requirements | Conformity inspection by a third-party inspection agency is mandatory | Self-inspection by the business |
| Display Contents | Mark + Business Name + Inspection Agency Name | Mark + Business Name |
| Main Product Examples | AC adapters, electric water heaters, electric toys | Mobile batteries, LED bulbs, humidifiers |
The shape of the mark indicates the level of safety required for the product and the differences in the obligations that the business must fulfill.
Diamond PSE mark indicating Specified Electrical Products
There are 116 items in the target category, including electric water heaters that may be used unattended for long periods of time, electric toys that may be touched by infants and young children, and AC adapters for smartphones that we use daily.
These are considered to have a relatively high risk of electric shock or fire, so stricter safety standards are applied.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Products | Specified Electrical Products (116 items) |
| Features | Products considered to be particularly dangerous |
| Main Examples | AC adapters, power cords, electric water heaters, electric massagers, electric toys |
| Inspection Obligation | Conformity inspection by a national registered third-party inspection agency is mandatory |
| Display Obligation | Diamond PSE mark, business name, registered inspection agency name |
Ms. GadgetAC adapters are diamond-shaped, which means they require extra attention, right?
Mr. GadgetYes, because they are parts that are likely to be directly connected to the household outlet and always connected to electricity, stricter standards are applied.
The diamond-shaped PSE mark indicates that the product has undergone a rigorous process of inspection by a third-party agency and is a product with particularly high safety.
Circular PSE mark indicating Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products
The target category is a wide range of 341 items, including many electrical products around our lives.
For example, mobile batteries, electric kettles, humidifiers, fans, and LED bulbs, which have become popular in recent years, fall into this category.
Although they are not as dangerous as Specified Electrical Products, they are electrical products that require safety standards to be met.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Target Products | Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products (341 items) |
| Features | Not classified as Specified Electrical Products, a wide range of electrical products |
| Main Examples | Mobile batteries, LED bulbs, humidifiers, electric kettles, fans, electric blankets |
| Inspection Obligation | Conformity confirmation and self-inspection by the business (third-party inspection is optional) |
Ms. GadgetSo, the round mark is correct for the humidifier I’m looking at?
Mr. GadgetThat’s right. Most humidifiers are subject to the circular PSE mark, indicating that they meet the national safety standards.
The circular PSE mark indicates that the product is not a Specified Electrical Product but that the business has independently confirmed its safety in accordance with the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law.
Difference in safety assurance level by mark
The difference between the diamond and circular PSE marks directly reflects the difference in the rigor of the procedures required by law to ensure safety.
Both marks indicate that the product meets the safety standards of the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law, but the verification process differs.
The biggest difference is that, in the case of the diamond-shaped mark (Specified Electrical Products), in addition to self-inspection, the business is obligated to receive a “conformity inspection” by a third-party inspection agency registered by the government and to submit and preserve the certificate of delivery.
On the other hand, in the case of the circular mark (Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products), such inspection by a third-party agency is not mandatory, and the business is required to confirm that it complies with the national technical standards and conduct self-inspection.
| Mark Type | Main Requirements for Safety Assurance |
|---|---|
| Diamond PSE | Compliance with national technical standards + mandatory conformity inspection by a third-party inspection agency |
| Circular PSE | Compliance with national technical standards + self-inspection by the business (third-party inspection is optional) |
Ms. GadgetHaving more information displayed means it’s more reassuring, doesn’t it?
Mr. GadgetYes, products with the diamond mark have traceability (the ability to track the product’s history) because you can see which inspection agency has confirmed its safety.
From this difference, we can say that products with the diamond-shaped PSE mark have undergone more objective and rigorous checks before being released to the market.
Checking the PSE mark on everyday products
Key points of this heading!
- PSE mark on AC adapters and chargers
- PSE mark obligation for mobile batteries
- General household appliances such as humidifiers and electric kettles
- LED lighting and the PSE mark
- Examples of electrical products not subject to the PSE mark
- Where to check for display on the product body or package
- Precautions when purchasing online
- Penalties for violating display obligations
Let’s look at the relationship between the PSE mark and the electrical products around us, using specific product examples.
It is important to develop a habit of checking whether or not the PSE mark is displayed on products that you use every day.
Here, we will explain how the PSE mark is handled for charging-related devices such as AC adapters and mobile batteries, as well as household appliances such as humidifiers and LED lighting.
In addition, we will touch on how to check the mark on the product and package, precautions when shopping online, and penalties in case of violation of display obligations.
PSE mark on AC adapters and chargers
AC adapters and chargers essential for charging smartphones and laptops are, in many cases, classified as Specified Electrical Products.
These products play an important role in converting electricity from household outlets to the voltage and current appropriate for the device, and are required to have particularly high safety due to the risk of heat generation and short circuits.
| Mark Type | Target Category | Obligation | Display Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond PSE | Specified Electrical Products | Conformity inspection by a third-party inspection agency | Diamond mark, business name, inspection agency name |
Ms. GadgetI see the diamond mark on the AC adapter!
Mr. GadgetYes, in many cases, it’s a “Specified Electrical Product” that requires strict safety checks, so it has a diamond PSE mark and the inspection agency name displayed.
When choosing a product, make sure that the diamond mark, business name, and registered inspection agency name are clearly displayed on the product’s nameplate or elsewhere.
PSE mark obligation for mobile batteries
Convenient for charging smartphones and other devices, mobile batteries have been subject to the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law since February 1, 2019, due to reports of fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries contained in them, both domestically and internationally.
These are classified as “Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products” and are subject to the circular PSE mark.
| Mark Type | Target Category | Obligation | Display Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circular PSE | Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products | Conformity confirmation and self-inspection by the business | Circular mark, business name |
Ms. GadgetI bought a mobile battery a while ago and it doesn’t have a mark…
Mr. GadgetProducts distributed before February 1, 2019 are not required to display the mark. However, for safety reasons, be sure to choose one with a circular PSE mark when purchasing now.
Mobile batteries manufactured or imported after the enforcement date of the regulations must display the circular PSE mark and the business name.
Be sure to check when purchasing.
General household appliances such as humidifiers and electric kettles
Many common household appliances, such as humidifiers, electric kettles, and fans, are also subject to the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law.
Most of these are classified as “Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products” and are subject to the circular PSE mark.
| Mark Type | Target Category | Target Example | Target Exclusion Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circular PSE | Electrical Products other than Specified Electrical Products | LED bulbs, plug-in LED stands | Some straight tube LEDs requiring professional installation |
Ms. GadgetSo, a round mark is okay for a humidifier I’m looking at?
Mr. GadgetYes, the round PSE mark indicates that it meets the national safety standards. Choose a product with the mark and business name displayed.
When choosing LED bulbs or lighting for your home, it is recommended to check that the circular PSE mark and business name are displayed.
LED lighting and the PSE mark
Energy-saving and long-lasting LED lighting is often subject to the circular PSE mark.
Commonly used bulb-type LED lamps and plug-in LED stands fall into this category.
| Mark Type | Target Region/Country | Basis Law/Standard | Effectiveness in Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSE Mark | Japan | Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law | Mandatory for domestic sales of target products |
| CE Mark | EU member states, etc. | EU Directive | Not valid in Japan unless the PSE mark is also displayed |
| UL Mark | United States of America | UL Standard (Underwriters Laboratories Inc.) | Not valid in Japan unless the PSE mark is also displayed |
Ms. GadgetIsn’t it reassuring if it has a famous overseas mark?
Mr. GadgetUnfortunately, that doesn’t mean it’s okay in Japan.
Therefore, when purchasing products, especially imports, it is most important to always check whether or not the PSE mark is displayed, regardless of the presence of CE or UL marks.
Examples of electrical products not subject to the PSE mark
The Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law regulates a variety of electrical products, but not all electrical products are subject to it.
For example, computer bodies and monitors, remote controls for televisions (battery-powered), and some small electronic devices that draw power from USB ports (those that meet specific conditions such as extremely low rated voltage and simple structure) are not subject to the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law.
| Example of Product Not Subject to PSE | Reason/Remarks |
|---|---|
| Computer body, monitor | Subject to regulation under specific standards or other laws (e.g., VCCI, Radio Law) |
| TV remote control | Usually powered by batteries and does not directly connect to AC power |
| Some USB-powered devices | If the rated voltage or structure does not meet the criteria of the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law |
| Devices powered only by batteries | Example: Some battery-powered toys (however, some electric toys are subject to the law) |
Ms. GadgetAre all USB-powered devices excluded?
Mr. GadgetNo, even if it is USB-powered, if an AC adapter is included for charging, that AC adapter is subject to the diamond PSE mark. Also, the mobile battery itself is subject to the circular PSE mark even if it is charged via USB.
If you are unsure whether or not a product is subject to the PSE mark, it is best to check the manufacturer’s product information or the website of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Where to check for display on the product body or package
The PSE mark and the business name are important clues for us consumers to confirm the safety of the product.
These displays are usually found on the nameplate, a sticker attached to the back or side of the product, or engraved on the product body.
They may also be displayed on the package (box) that the product came in.
Ms. GadgetThe mark is hard to find on small products…
Mr. GadgetYes, the display may be small, especially on small products such as AC adapters. Be sure to check carefully before purchasing or using.
If you cannot find the PSE mark or the business name, the safety of the product has not been confirmed, so we strongly recommend that you do not use it or contact the seller or manufacturer before purchasing.
Precautions when purchasing online
| Check Point | Caution |
|---|---|
| Product Description/Image | Check for the presence of the PSE mark (diamond/circular), business name, and description |
| Price | Be wary of products that are extremely cheap compared to market prices |
| Seller Information | Confirm that the seller has clear contact information and location |
| Unclear Points | Contact the seller to inquire about the PSE mark and details before proceeding with the purchase |
Ms. GadgetI’m worried because I don’t know if the mark is actually displayed.
Mr. GadgetEven if the description says it’s displayed, there have been cases where the mark is not on the product when it arrives. Be sure to check the actual product upon arrival and contact the seller immediately if the mark is missing or unclear.
Referring to reviews or choosing products from manufacturers with official distributors in Japan can also lead to choosing safe products.
Penalties for violating display obligations
The Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law obligates businesses to display the PSE mark on target products and imposes strict penalties for violations.
If you sell Specified Electrical Products or other Electrical Products without displaying the PSE mark, you may be subject to a sales suspension order or a product recall order from the government, and the violator may be subject to a imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 1 million yen (or a fine of up to 100 million yen for corporations).
| Violation | Penalty/Measures |
|---|---|
| Selling products without the PSE mark | Sales suspension order, product recall order, imprisonment (up to 1 year), fine (individual: up to 1 million yen, corporation: up to 100 million yen) |
Ms. GadgetThat’s a heavy penalty!
Mr. GadgetYes, it shows how important safety is for electrical products. These penalty provisions are intended to encourage businesses to comply with the law and eliminate dangerous products from the market.
Our act of checking the PSE mark as consumers also contributes to choosing businesses that comply with the law and provide safe products.
PSE mark related details and cautions
Relationship with overseas safety certification marks
When looking at electrical products, you may see various marks in addition to the PSE mark.
Some well-known ones include the CE mark used in Europe and the UL mark, which is a safety standard in the United States.
These indicate that the products meet the safety standards of each country or region.
However, it is important to note that even if these overseas safety certification marks are attached, it does not necessarily mean that the product meets the safety standards of Japanese law.
In order to sell electrical products subject to the Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law in Japan, it is legally obligated to obtain the PSE mark after going through procedures based on Japanese law.
| Mark Type | Main Target Region/Country | Basis Law/Standard | Effectiveness in Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSE Mark | Japan | Electrical Appliance and Materials Safety Law | Mandatory for domestic sales of target products |
| CE Mark | EU member states, etc. | EU Directive | Not valid in Japan unless the PSE mark is also displayed |
| UL Mark | United States of America | UL Standard (Underwriters Laboratories Inc.) | Not valid in Japan unless the PSE mark is also displayed |
Ms. GadgetWouldn’t it be reassuring if it had a famous overseas mark?
Mr. GadgetUnfortunately, it’s not okay in Japan.
Therefore, when purchasing products, especially imports, be sure to always check whether or not the PSE mark is displayed, regardless of the presence of CE or UL marks.
What to do if the mark is missing
What should you do if the PSE mark is not displayed on electrical products that should legally have it?
You’ll be worried about whether or not it’s okay to use it.
First, try to check the product body and package again carefully.
The PSE mark is usually displayed on a nameplate (sticker) attached to the back or side of the product, or engraved on the product body.
It may also be displayed on the package (box) that the product came in.
The mark may be small, especially on small products.
If you still can’t find the mark, the product’s safety is uncertain, and you should strongly recommend not using it.
Ms. GadgetIt’s dangerous to use a product without confirming its safety just because it’s cheap or you like the design!
Mr. GadgetIf you are unsure or cannot get an appropriate response from the business, we recommend contacting the nearest Consumer Affairs Center, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, or the National Consumer Affairs Center (Consumer Hotline “188”).
Points to consider when choosing electrical products with confidence
We have looked at various information about the PSE mark. Finally, let’s summarize the specific points for choosing electrical products with confidence.
Because it is something we use in our daily lives, we want to be especially careful about safety.
The most important thing is to check whether or not the PSE mark is displayed before purchasing.
In addition, it is important to purchase from a reliable seller.
Be wary of products that are extremely cheap or of unknown origin.
When shopping online, check whether the product description includes information about the PSE mark, whether the product images display the mark, and whether the seller’s information is clear.
Mr. GadgetBe careful of manufacturers with names that say “latest version” without any explanation!
Ms. GadgetIt’s not reassuring even if it’s ranked high on Amazon…
| Check Item | Confirmation Contents |
|---|---|
| Presence of PSE Mark | Check whether the diamond or circular PSE mark is displayed on the product body or package |
| Display of Business Name | Check whether the name of the business that manufactures or imports the product is displayed near the PSE mark |
| (Diamond Mark) Inspection Agency Name | If it is a diamond mark, check whether the name of the inspection agency is displayed near the mark |
| Reliability of Seller | Purchase from a reliable seller, whether it is a physical store or an online shop |
| Product Information | Especially when shopping online, check the product description, specifications, and reviews |
The PSE mark is an important indicator for choosing safe electrical products.
By correctly understanding the meaning of the mark and developing a habit of checking it when purchasing, you can reduce the risk of accidents caused by electrical products and protect the safety of yourself and your family.
Acquire the correct knowledge and choose products safely.
Thank you for reading all the way through!
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