Consumerism Flashcards
UL
Underwriter’s Laboratory
Electronic products, checks if wire size and product can handle claimed current
CPSC
Consumer Product Safety Commission
Recall products of fire, electrical, chemical, mechanical, children injury hazard
BBB
Better Business Bureau
Non-gov that deals w/ customer complaints abt customer service, sales, contracts, warranties, billings, refunds. Also rates business
FTC
Federal Trade Commission
Gov deals with consumer injustice, fraud, identity theft, unfair business practices.
FDA
Food and Drug Administration
Evaluates food, drugs, biological products, medical devices, cosmetics
Consumers Union
Tests and rates product quality
National Highway Traffic Safety Assn.
Regulates vehicle and Road safety
FCC
Federal Communication Commission
Regulates national/international communications, such as cable, radio, television, satellite, and wire. Well known for censorship.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
Makes sure products and production are good for environment
Consumer Complaint Process
- Return to place of purchase
- Contact Company HQ
- Contact Consumer Agency Assistance (BBB, FDA, CPSC)
- Dispute Resolution (mediation)
- Legal action (court, lawsuit)
Warranty
Company’s promise that product will meet standards over period of time or the company will repair/replace/refund
Express Warranty
Presents a specific quality of a product
Full Warranty
Very specific, written guarantee
Limited Warranty
Written warranty includes limitations of product
Implied warranty
Unwritten guarantee consumers should expect. Product should be used as intended
