Sale of Dangerous Substances

As many of us are already aware it is illegal to sell so-called dangerous substances to children and to profit from such sales. Unfortunately there are still a number of shopkeepers within the United Kingdom who still flout this law and continue to sell such substances to children who below the recommended age by law.

It is with this in mind that we look at what constitutes a dangerous substance and what the legal ramifications are for selling them to children and minors.

What is a Dangerous Substance?

In legal terms a dangerous substance is any substance - liquid, powder or otherwise - that can be ingested, inhaled, swallowed or applied to the skin. Such substances are readily available over the counters of many retail outlets to individuals over the age of eighteen and there are also laws in place to stop the sale of such substances to individuals below the recommended legal age.

What follows is a list of what are considered to be dangerous substances:

• Varnishes
• Correction Fluids
• Glues
• Acids
• Corrosives
• Paint Thinners
• Industrial Strength Alcohols
• Explosive Powders (Fireworks)
• Non Prescriptive Medications

Many of the aforementioned substances are indeed dangerous and can be purchased from most high street retailers, builders merchants, chemists and outlets specialising in the sale of artistic materials.

Proof of Identity and Age

In order for any individual to buy any of the items we have listed they should be able to provide proof of identity and age. It is a fact of life these days that children are looking older before their time as a result of how they dress and young boys in particular look older because of the ways in which they have their hair cut and also the clothes that they wear.

Any retailer of shopkeeper in doubt of a potential customer's age should ask for proof of identity or refuse to allow the transaction to take place. More often than not it is young boys or teenage boys who wish to purchase such items and as a direct result shopkeepers should be aware at all times.

Tell-Tale Signs of under Age Shoppers

As we have already mentioned many young boys and teenagers will try to purchase items that they are well aware are illegal to them. With this in mind they will try and find ways around this problem so as a retailer you should be aware of some of the scams and rouses they use to try and confuse shopkeepers and retailers.

Be aware of groups of youths entering your shop. Invariably one will try and make a purchase whilst the others will attempt to create a distraction. It is not unknown for a shopkeeper to make a purchase whilst concentrating on the actions of others on their premises.

Exercise caution if an individual wearing a baseball cap or hooded top tries to make a purchase of something that is considered dangerous. Many teenage boys use baseball caps and so-called hoodies as a way of disguising their identity.

Have you just refused to sell a product to a minor? If so be mindful of older individuals trying to buy the same item within a few moments of a failed attempt by a minor. It is not unheard of for a minor to ask an older individual to make a purchase on their behalf. If you are in any doubt refuse to sell it to them as well.

As a shopkeeper or retailer you should be aware of the hefty fines imposed by local authorities for the sale of dangerous substances to underage clientele. If you suspect any potential customer is under age then exercise your right to ask for identification and if they cannot provide it refuse to make a sale.

If you are in any doubt contact your local Trading Standards authority who will be able to provide you with a list of what identification is acceptable and also contact your local police station.