Ten tips for making Christmas gift-giving a time of pleasure

As Christmas approaches, retailers have prepared for the rush to buy toys, wide-screen TVs, computer games, mobile phones or winter jackets. But just how safe are those gifts under the Christmas tree? TÜV SÜD Product Service provides consumers with ten tips on how to keep risks to a minimum when buying presents.
1. No hotline to Santa Claus?
Then it’s best to get your presents from specialist retailers, respectable online shops or reputable discounters, where you can return defective goods and also claim damages if the worst comes to the worst.

2. Even Father Christmas has a home address!
Are the manufacturers or importer’s name and full address given on the present you have chosen? Beware if these details are missing, as is often the case with cheap – and possibly dangerous – products without identifiable origin.

3. Being thrifty may be nifty - but not at Christmas.
Ensure that the price of your present is in relation to its material value. Cut-price offers frequently compromise on safety and reliability.

4. A ‘passport’ but not a safety label.
CE marking only reflects a manufacturer’s declaration that its products comply with the minimum requirements of the relevant European directives. Neither product nor production facilities, however, undergo third-party inspection by a certification body. As a ‘passport’ for ensuring free trade in the European Union, CE marking primarily addresses the requirements of the EU authorities, not those of consumers.

5. A safe and merry Christmas.
“GS“ stands for “Geprüfte Sicherheit” or “tested safety“, which means products identified by this mark have been tested by an approved third-party certifier. This test mark also covers the inspection of the production facilities at least once a year. Here at TÜV SÜD Product Service only one in three products passes the type approval test straight away. Any products that fail will need to be re-worked before being re-tested or may never make it on the market. Some product certification organizations have further improved the GS mark, testing additional product characteristics such as fitness for use or energy efficiency. TÜV SÜD Product Service confirms such characteristics by issuing the TÜV SÜD Octagon mark.

6. Christmas in the air? Follow your nose.
avoid buying products with a strongly chemical or scented smell, which may be an indication of pollutants. Painted toys should always be sweat and saliva proof. Run a wetted finger over the present you have selected. If the paint comes off, it’s best to put the product back on the shelf.

7. Festivities free from rough edges: especially where children’s toys are concerned.
Take the toy in your hand and test it for rough edges or sharp corners which may cause injuries.

8. The bigger the present the better!
This primarily holds true for children up to the age of three, who tend to put toys in their mouths. To avoid the risk of suffocation, toddlers should not be allowed to get hold of anything the size of a one pound coin or smaller. Also watch out that toys cannot be taken apart. Take the age restrictions provided by manufacturers seriously!

9. Teddy bears under the shower!
Clean washable presents before they are used, especially if this is recommended in the instructions for use. Allow rag dolls, Father Christmases and other soft toys to dry out thoroughly to prevent mould spores from forming. A 24-hour stay in the freezer takes care of dust mites.

10. Caution: technical jargon!
Does the present come with instructions for use in plain and understandable language? If there are no instructions for use or if the translation sounds as if it was computer-generated you should sit up and take notice. Read the instructions for use thoroughly before using the present for the first time. Be sure to heed all warning notices issued by the manufacturer!

Lighting up the Christmas tree

Christmas is the time of festive decorations and lights – houses, fences, reindeer, angels, Santas, stars and of course Christmas trees are all aglow during the festive period. Fairy lights or strings of lights are an essential part of Christmas decorations. As a practical alternative to candles, they provide romantic lighting without the need for constant supervision. However, string lights are not all sweetness and light. The damage caused when Christmas trees and decorations catch fire adds up to roughly 10 million pounds every year. Major causes of these fires are not only candles, but also – and increasingly frequently – defective string lights, which may make trees or decoration go up in smoke if not handled correctly.

TÜV SÜD Product Service gives tips on how to avoid incorrect installation of string and rope lights:

Smouldering and short circuits

Purchasers of string lights should look out for products bearing the TÜV SÜD Octagon or TÜV SÜD GS mark, showing that these products have been thoroughly tested and meet the relevant safety requirements. String lights must satisfy the requirements of class II or III equipment (recognisable by their international symbols, i.e. a square inside a square or a Roman numeral III within a diamond). String lights without these symbols should not be sold on the market. Home owners planning to brighten up their façade or garden should only use string lights that are designed for outdoor use and are sufficiently weatherproof. The product pros advise do-it-yourselfers to fasten their light decorations with cable ties, which,  unlike staplers, cannot damage electric wires. Christmas decoration fans should be particularly careful when using extension cords, which are not generally weatherproof. Power strips are also unsuitable for permanent outdoor use. “Slowly but surely, moisture inevitably penetrates and will cause a short circuit”, explains Richard Poate, Compliance Service Manager at TÜV SÜD Product Service. Given this, power strips should only be used in dry places. In addition, string lights may only be extended if expressly permitted by the manufacturer. These sets of lights come with water-resistant connectors, and the maximum number of extension sets is given on the package and must be strictly observed, otherwise the wattage specified by the manufacturer may soon be exceeded. Given this, decoration-lovers should take measurements, decide on the length of string lights they require before they buy and, if necessary, go to a specialist shop.

Rapid overheating

String lights with transformers offer higher safety both indoors and out. The transformer steps down the voltage to a maximum of 50 volts, reducing the danger of electric shock in the case of contact with a defective live part. This may be a critical feature, particularly in households with children. Special splashproof transformers identifiable by protection class IP 44, IP 54 or IP 64 are available on the market. The experts also recommend the installation of ‘residual current devices’ or RCDs, which immediately interrupt the electricity supply if a defect occurs. A common mistake made by consumers is to underestimate the heat generated by the individual bulbs of a string of lights, and cover the lights with hand-made decorations made of paper or similar materials. Covering the bulbs causes the developing heat to build up, and may set the decoration alight. Another potentially dangerous situation arises if several bulbs blow at the same time. “In this case, the voltage is spread over the remaining bulbs and causes heat radiation to rise to a critical level. With this in mind, users should check bulbs frequently and replace defective ones immediately to keep fire hazards to a minimum”, advises Richard Poate. If bulbs cannot be replaced, the best move is to pull the plug.

TÜV SÜD: Be well-prepared for winter traffic chaos

When winter first hits, the resulting chaos on roads and motorways can be a tough challenge, particularly for commuters. Weather forecasters predict that the present winter weather is likely to stay for a while. All the more reason, then, for drivers to prepare as well as possible for the difficult traffic conditions that lie ahead. And as the traffic experts from TÜV SÜD know, preparation for spending hours in the car is the most important of all.
Think before you drive: It is generally true to say that cars are definitely not the transport of choice on snow and ice. If you have the option of taking the train or staying at home, do it. If driving is unavoidable, TÜV SÜD expert Philip Puls recommends heeding the following advice before setting off: "Drivers should definitely make more time for their journeys." To be on the safe side, a tow-rope, jump leads, warm blankets, a hand broom, an ice scraper, snow chains and of course a high-visibility vest should be in every car. And talking about high-visibility vests, "If the car breaks down, drivers must leave the car and warn other road users of the obstruction by switching on their hazard warning lights and setting up their warning triangles", advises Puls. "Staying in the car is extremely dangerous under these circumstances", warns the road expert.

Not only because of the new regulations concerning winter tyres, Puls believes "it would be sheer madness to drive in the kind of bad weather we are currently having." If driving is absolutely essential, car owners should ensure their fuel tank is full before setting out. "When the stress of winter traffic is compounded by the fear of running out of petrol in the middle of a motorway traffic jam, drivers place themselves under a lot of strain."

Be prepared for long traffic jams: Most commuters in particular tend to set out for work in the clothes they wear to the office – a suit, light shoes and perhaps a jacket. After all, who thinks of spending hours on the road when that cosy office is only a few miles away? But this is a mistake. "On days when chaos rules the roads, even a 30-kilometre journey can turn into hours of torture", warns Puls. Check the weather forecast and make the appropriate preparations: "A warm jacket, sweater and perhaps a flask of hot tea are certainly a good idea." Puls also recommends warm winter shoes for the car: "Particularly if the car breaks down and the driver has to get out, sturdy winter shoes are no mere luxury, but are essential."

Exercise moderation: Generally, motorists who have got stuck try first of all to get their cars moving again on their own, as can be witnessed time and again in excessive revving and spinning tyres. However, this only makes matters worse. It is better to increase the load on the driving axle and accelerate carefully – preferably using second gear. Observe basic safety principles in attempts to free the car, too; ensure the car is visible by switching on the hazard lights.

Rock to get rolling: Where patience and stress are fruitless, motorists can resort to a combination of the two: rocking the car to and fro. To do so, drivers must get their cars swinging by alternately pressing the gas pedal and releasing the clutch at regular intervals. The rocking distance must then be gradually extended and the rocking momentum used to get the car over the obstacle. Motorists driving a car with automatic transmission must alternate carefully between the R and D position of the gear lever.

Get a grip: A helpful hint when trying to get your car unstuck is to place a door mat or special grid under the wheel of the driving axle to ensure the necessary grip and traction. But note that people in the vicinity of the car must keep their distance. Items placed under wheels may turn into missiles.

Digging out: Shovel, snow chains and lamps are all helpful assistants in releasing a car from the grip of the snow. Blankets and hot drinks prove invaluable when motorists have to wait for help. TÜV SÜD's tip: when shovelling snow take care to clear the snow both in front of and behind the wheels on the driving axle, and make sure that both the axle and the underbody are free. Clearing the snow from the wheels is futile if the car itself is actually sitting on a mound of snow.

Chaining up: A set of snow chains or snow socks is a useful companion. To escape from a snow drift, snow socks are sufficient, and, in fact, in most countries their use is limited to traction assistance. Motorists driving in snowy regions should always take along snow chains. They are needed whenever the use of snow chains is signposted as mandatory.

Spraying: In TÜV SÜD's experience, spray-on "snow chains" and other coatings to improve grip and traction do not live up to their promises.

Towing: If the car has become damaged after skidding and has to be towed, use a rod instead of a rope on icy roads to prevent keeping your distance from the car in front turning into a gamble. TÜV SÜD's experts therefore advise drivers always to keep a tow-rod in their boot during winter.

Better Visibility Improves Road Safety

As further steps towards improving road safety in Europe, reflective tape on trucks and daytime running lights (DRL) on passenger cars will improve visibility in road transport from next year onwards. From February 2011 on, special daytime running lights will become mandatory for all new cars. This measure is aimed at a clear reduction in the number of road accidents, as is the introduction of 'retro-reflective contour marking' on trucks. Although so far these markings have been voluntary, TÜV SÜD warns that from July 2011 onwards, all new trucks of 7.5 tonnes and upwards must have them.

Rain, fog, darkness – poor visibility is high on the list of causes of accidents. Seeing and being seen is an important prerequisite for maintaining adequate safety distance from other cars and reacting correctly. TÜV SÜD welcomes the new provisions aimed at improving visibility, which will come into effect next year. Bernhard Kerscher, CEO of TÜV SÜD Auto Service, comments, "Retro-reflective contour markings on trucks are a simple and relatively cost-effective approach to boosting visibility, immediately improving road safety." The same can be said for the introduction of daytime running lights (DRLs) for new passenger cars up to a gross vehicle weight of 3.5 tonnes from February 2011 onwards.

Without Major Efforts

An EU regulation demanding that daytime running lights (DRL) must be part of the original equipment of a new car from February 2011 onwards – a requirement already fulfilled by numerous automobile manufacturers – will be implemented in stages next year. For commercial vehicles, this requirement will apply one year later, from August 2012 onwards.

Nevertheless, truck visibility is to be improved as early as next year, from which time retro-reflective markings will be made compulsory. These 'contour markings', which have been permitted in Germany for years, will become compulsory from July 2011 onwards for new commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 7.5 tonnes and upwards and new trailers of 3.5 tonnes and more, as set forth in EU Directive 2007/35/EC (adaptation to technical progress concerning the installation of lighting and light-signalling devices on motor vehicles).

A fast and cost-effective process, affixing the adhesive tape to a solid or tarpaulin truck body could hardly be simpler. From October 2011 onwards, the adhesive foil will become compulsory across Europe. However, like daytime running lights, retro-reflective markings will also only become compulsory for new vehicles, and the retrofit will not be made mandatory for cars already registered.

Daytime Running Lights Offer Many Benefits

Why not simply make it mandatory for cars to have their headlights on during the day, similar to motorcycles? "Daytime running lights are optimized for the requirements of daytime driving and offer many advantages compared to normal headlights", explains Günter Schmid, TÜV SÜD. Firstly, for example, the lights are not brighter than the headlights of motorcycles or other weaker road users such as cyclists, and thus do not reduce their conspicuity. Secondly, they need very little power and only marginally increase fuel consumption. By comparison, when driving with daytime running lights (DRLs) all other lights including rear lights, licence plate lights and so on are switched off, unlike driving with dipped headlights (mean additional fuel consumption 0.1 to 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres). As a result, DRLs consume only 20 to 30 per cent of the energy consumed by headlamps. And if LED systems are used, energy consumption amounts to a mere 10 per cent of that consumed by headlights. Thirdly, the vehicle can be seen more clearly by other road users, particularly in poor light, and the speed of other road users is far easier to assess. A Look At Our Neighbours
A look at our neighbouring countries shows that irrespective of the new European regulation, headlamps during the day are already mandatory in many European countries. While driving with the lights on during the day is only a recommendation in some countries, such as France and Switzerland, it is compulsory in others and drivers that violate this rule must expect expensive fines – motorists caught with their lights off during the day are called on to pay 53 euros in the Czech Republic, for example, and as much as 190 euros in Norway. In these countries, motorists whose cars have not yet been equipped with the new daytime running lights may switch on their headlights instead.

Retrofitting

Given this situation, TÜV SÜD offers a tip on retrofitting: in most cases car owners who do not plan to buy a new car in 2011, yet want to improve their visibility and comply with the state of the art, can retrofit their cars. The retrofit is available from 50 euros upwards. Motorists purchasing daytime running lights should look out for the E-test mark and the letters RL on the glass of the lamp. "The lamps must also be approved as per ECE-R 87 (European Regulation for Daytime Running Lights)", explains Schmid. A word on technology: when purchasing daytime running lights, car owners should give preference to LED systems. LEDs consume far less energy, which is good for the environment.

As an additional benefit, these lamps are smaller and therefore easier to install. As installation involves the electronic system of the car, drivers wishing to retrofit DRLs should go to a specialist garage.

Photovoltaics: Easier access to the UK market with TÜV SÜD

As an accredited certification body for the UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), TÜV SÜD supports manufacturers throughout the world in the certification of photovoltaic modules and other components. The MCS certificate is essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid in the UK, and is a critical success factor on the UK market for manufacturers and importers.

By adopting programmes such as the MCS scheme, the UK government aims to promote the use of energy from renewables in the UK and meet the European Union’s targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. "The MCS certificate is required for selling the electricity produced to the National Grid", explains Andreas Faißt, photovoltaics expert at Munich-based TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH." The certificate is thus critical in the selection and purchase of photovoltaic systems and other components.

Boasting a global network, the TÜV SÜD experts support manufacturers in complying with the requirements set out in the British MCS standard. "Our service saves non-UK manufacturers a lot of time and money", explains Faißt. "And thanks to our staff in regional subsidiaries, we can also ensure smooth cooperation across national boundaries." Certification covers type examinations and special on-site factory production control audits. Extensive testing ensures compliance with the relevant standards. "This makes the certificate one of the key criteria for UK consumers and system installers when selecting a product", notes the TÜV SÜD professional. "The MCS logo is not only essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid, but also makes a clear statement about the manufacturer's expertise and responsibility."

For more information about the MCS Scheme contact us by telephone: +44 (0)1489 558100 or email: info@tuvps.co.uk

TÜV SÜD and E.ON press ahead with electro-mobility

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are working closely together to further develop electro-mobility to market readiness. The focus of this strategic partnership is on a broad spectrum of charging systems for electro-vehicles. Developing user friendly electricity fuel stations with the highest safety standards will be an important contribution to building up the infrastructure necessary for the wide use of electro-cars in the future.

As part of their partnership both companies are working on further developing existing concepts and standards for cable connected electricity fuel stations. In this connection E.ON has installed a newly developed electricity fuel station at the TÜV SÜD Service Centre Starnberg near Munich that is reopening today, Friday 9 July. This electricity fuel station will be the first facility of this type to receive a TÜV certificate. In marketing a new generation of electricity fuel stations E.ON is specifically backing this seal of approval, thus underlining its pioneering role in developing electricity fuel stations.

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are also systematically investigating the usage possibilities and prospects of cable free charging stations. For this purpose test operations extending over several months in a test facility also installed in the Starnberg Test Centre will also put inductive charging through its paces. The test results will form an important basis for setting the first, generally applicable technical safety requirements for such charging systems. The criteria set in doing so could apply as guidelines for developing and operating such facilities worldwide in future.

Through this cooperation TÜV SÜD will strengthen its expertise throughout the electro-mobility process chain: from certifying electricity generation and safety standards for vehicles and infrastructure, up to training staff how to handle high voltage technology, as well as recycling vehicles.

For E.ON electricity fuel stations are not just charging points for electro-cars but an important interface for the intelligent electricity grids of the future. So that the increasing electricity generation from small, decentralised facilities can be integrated, energy storage has to supplement intelligent grids. One option for this is electro-cars if they could be “filled up” with electricity using an intelligent electricity fuel station when it is windy and consumption is low.

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Staying cool on the slopes – with ski goggles

As ski fans prepare for fun on the slopes in the forthcoming season, they should be sure to include ski goggles as an essential item of basic safety equipment for any winter sports enthusiast. The sports product experts at TÜV SÜD have tips on choosing the right goggles and on product care. TÜV SÜD tips for purchasers


A single pair of goggles can offer many types of protection. Goggles protect the wearer from glare and harsh UV rays. They also protect the eyes from the effects of the weather – from snow to rain or sleet – and keep wind and sun away from the sensitive conjunctiva of the eye. A well-fitting pair of goggles can also protect against eye injuries from falls.


It's all about the lenses. In high-quality ski goggles, they are usually made from shatterproof and impact-resistant polycarbonate, a type of plastic which ensures clear, distortion-free vision. To ensure as wide a field of vision as possible, the lenses generally extend beyond the eye and are not divided into two separate lenses like 'normal' glasses. The TÜV SÜD pros advise that double lenses help to reduce moisture build-up behind the goggles, and allow moisture to dissipate more easily.


On the ski slopes, glorious sunshine can be torture for the eyes. Tinted lenses protect against glare and optimize visibility. Dark brown or dark grey lenses are the most effective in extremely bright sunlight. There are four levels of protective filter. In twilight, snow or fog, vision is improved by yellow or reddish-orange tinted lenses. TÜV SÜD advises purchasers to consult a specialist retailer for detailed information on protective filters, lens tints and UV protection in ski goggles.


But what about people who have to wear prescription glasses every day? On no account should they hit the slopes without their 'visual aids', warn the TÜV SÜD experts. There are a number of options they can explore, such as ski goggles with clips which take optical prescription inserts. If the wearer's visual acuity changes, only the clip needs to be replaced. In another solution known as a shield, the prescription lenses themselves are integrated into the goggle frame. Finally, 'over-the-glass' goggles are designed to be worn over normal glasses. A popular alternative is to resort to contact lenses while skiing, which enable normal sports goggles to be worn.


Sunshine is not the only source of eye strain – wind can also cause problems. For this reason, goggles should fit as closely as possible around the eye. To prevent fogging, an effective ventilation system is essential. Continuous optimum flow of air is achieved either by ventilation slits or by a battery-operated electric fan – a high-tech alternative particularly popular with extreme sports enthusiasts. A further precaution against fogging is an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens. However, only high-quality models offer a long lifespan – cheaper versions simply wash off over time.


To ensure wearing comfort on the slopes and effective protection if you take a tumble, goggles frames must be flexible and adjustable. Flexible plastic is the best material; it is lightweight and does not become cold or brittle, even in low temperatures.


The main safety priority for goggles is the correct fit. Goggles fit correctly when they sit comfortably without slipping or chafing. The frame should fit closely around the head. Fit and comfort can be optimized by choosing goggles with a well-fitting stretch head strap and padding at all points where the goggles are in contact with the skin; this padding should be of soft, elastic material that is comfortable to wear. The head strap should be designed for combination with a helmet. TÜV SÜD advises taking the helmet along when you buy your goggles and spending plenty of time in trying on different goggle styles.


Purchasers of ski goggles can look for the GS (Tested Safety) mark or the TÜV SÜD octagon quality mark as guidance in their product choice. The sports product experts test attributes including stability, material and usability.


TÜV SÜD tips for care

• If snow gets into the goggles, simply tap it out and dry the inside of the lens by dabbing with an eyewear care cloth. Do not rub the lens, as this may damage (scratch) the anti-fog coating or the glass.
• Always store and transport the goggles in the case supplied, to ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.
• Goggles lenses that have cracked or chipped as the result of a fall can be replaced – a specialist retailer is the best place to ask.