Following reports of recalls in the United States involving rechargeable hand warmers due to lithium batteries overheating, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI), today (August 6) posted the relevant information on its Product Safety Information Website under the  "Foreign Defective Product Information"  section to alert consumers. The affected products include OCOOPA rechargeable hand warmers, models UT3053, UT3056, ZLS-118, ZLS-118S, ZLS-118D, H01, and H01 (PD). The BSMI has also requested domestic online platforms and distributors to proactively remove the affected products from sale as a precautionary measure.

The BSMI urges consumers to check whether they have any of the above-mentioned models at home and to stop using them immediately. It has also instructed domestic distributors to verify whether the affected products have been imported into Taiwan. If any products are confirmed to be covered by the recall, the distributors will be required to initiate a recall. Relevant details will be published under the "Product Recall Information" section of the Product Safety Information website.

The BSMI further noted that, in response to the growing popularity of portable rechargeable electrical appliances, it has progressively expanded the scope of mandatory inspection since 2023 to include 14 types of rechargeable electrical products, including handheld fans, curling irons, and rechargeable hand warmers. Manufacturers and importers are required to complete the applicable inspection procedures before such products may be imported or released from the production premises. Rechargeable hand warmers were officially announced as products subject to mandatory inspection in 2025, with the requirements taking effect on July 1, 2026. The inspection covers key electrical safety requirements, including heating, insulation, construction, as well as electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, to help ensure product safety.

The BSMI also reminds consumers to purchase only products bearing the Commodity Inspection Mark and to check the required Chinese-language labeling, including the manufacturer's name and address, rated voltage, power consumption or current, and model number. Consumers should also follow the instructions provided in the user manual, including avoiding charging the product unattended, using it in wet or humid environments, or subjecting it to strong drops or impacts, to ensure safe use.

Business Contact: Ching-Hong Cheng, Deputy Director, Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI)
Tel. (O): +886-2343-1700 ext.1211