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questions: liability/ legal issues for selling handmade lamps
by wonderpants, Window Shopper
- Created: July 28, 2011, 4:49 pm
Hello, I have been making beautiful refurbished antique lamps at home as a hobby. I am interested in exploring the possibility of making them for sale at crafts fairs, on the internet, or via a few retailers.Before I get too excited about that idea, I'm wondering if it is realistic in terms of laws or liability issues involving selling lamps I have wired or re-wired myself.I have been searching online for information about my legal responsibilities or liabilities around selling home-manufactured lamps and I can't find anything easily.I'm wondering if I need certification to wire lamps for sale, or if I need to hire an electrician to do it.If it seems like the issues involved will be too complicated, I could simply sell lamp shades instead.I'm also wondering if requirements could be met simply by using UL listed parts in the wiring.Does anyone know where I can find more information about my legal responsibilities and liabilities on this topic? I want to find out if the project is realistic to pursue at all.I care a lot about safety and I'm willing to put a reasonable amout of time into training and certification. I'm happy to go above and beyond to offer safe products. I'm just wondering if it is possible for a small artisan business to manage any legal issues that might come with selling an electrical product. It would be a small hobby business, and electricity is a big deal!Your suggestions and resources are appreciated. Thank you.

BizResearcher | Window Shopper | 8/3/2011 - 11:29 am
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