A global wave of home appliance recalls, including millions of air fryer models sold by major brands has cast a harsh spotlight on the growing danger of faulty kitchen devices and the rising tide of personal injury claims they leave in their wake.

According to Kirstie Haslam, partner at DSC Attorneys, one of South Africa’s leading personal injury law firms, the recent spate of recalls underscores a broader, more troubling pattern: “These incidents are a stark reminder that design flaws, manufacturing defects, or cost-cutting with cheap materials can lead to serious harm. From burns and electric shocks to toxic chemical leaks, when a product in your home fails, the consequences can be devastating.”

Home appliances under scrutiny include air fryers, pressure cookers, multi-cookers, ovens, and even refrigerators and heaters. Injuries range from minor burns to life-threatening conditions.

“Consumers often don’t realise that they have strong legal rights in these cases,” says Haslam. “If you or your child is injured due to a defective appliance, you may be entitled to claim financial compensation.”

Who is liable when an appliance causes injury?

Prior to 2011, consumers bore the burden of proving negligence by manufacturers, a nearly impossible task for most. But since the introduction of The Consumer Protection Act No. 68 of 2008, liability has shifted.

“Today, strict liability applies,” explains Haslam. “You don’t need to prove negligence, only that the product was defective and that it caused harm. That’s a major protection for South African consumers.”

Under Section 61 of the Act, manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers can all be held liable for:

• Supplying unsafe or hazardous goods
• Product failures, defects or hidden dangers
• Inadequate instructions or safety warnings

These rights apply whether the item was purchased online, in-store, or even received as a gift.

Common culprits and hidden dangers in the home

While the recent focus has been on air fryers and multi-cookers, Haslam notes that many household appliances can pose serious risks:

• Refrigerators and freezers – electric shocks and toxic chemical exposure
• Heaters – fire hazards, burns and carbon monoxide poisoning
• Stoves, kettles, and toasters – severe burns and electrocution
• Pressure cookers and air fryers – overheating and explosion injuries
• What to do if you’re injured by a faulty appliance

Haslam urges anyone harmed by a defective product to seek legal advice before accepting any refund or return offer. “You may be entitled to much more than a replacement appliance. Claims can include compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.”

She says that a law firm that specialises in product liability claims can offer expert legal support to help victims navigate the complex terrain of manufacturer responsibility and consumer rights.

“With recalls making headlines globally, we expect a rise in South African claims as more households come forward,” Haslam adds. “Consumers should not have to bear the cost of corporate oversight or negligence.”

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