In 2015-16, the number of product recalls in the United Kingdom hit a record high of 575, an increase of 48 per cent over the previous year, according to the most recent data from corporate and insurance law firm, RFC. Product recalls can have a significant impact on your business, including financial costs, disruptions to your supply chains and stains on your public image.

In March, to help UK businesses better handle product recalls, the government developed the Code of Practice (PAS 7100). The code is the first-ever government-backed regulation specifically for product recalls and was created with input from leading retailers, consumer interest groups and industry bodies.

The code outlines how to effectively plan for a recall, monitor the safety of products, investigate product safety issues and review corrective action programmes. Additionally, the code also provides guidance for regulators, specifically market surveillance authorities on how they can carry out their role in ensuring product safety issues.

In addition to the code, you can protect your business with products liability insurance, which provides cover for not just the manufacturing of products, but also the sale of products to the public. For more information on products liability cover, contact Lockyers today.