A tradie visiting Bunnings on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland was taken aback by a peculiar scene at the store. Shane, also known as @procheck_automotive online, was on a routine trip to purchase a garden hoe when he encountered an unexpected sight behind security screens.
In a video that later went viral, Shane showcased the gardening tool locked away behind a perspex screen adorned with warning signs cautioning customers about new regulations. The signs explicitly stated that the sale of certain items to minors was prohibited and instructed customers to seek assistance from staff for access.
Expressing his surprise, Shane narrated his experience in the clip, highlighting the need to consult a team member to acquire the desired tool. Moreover, he revealed the store’s policy that required customers to be escorted to the checkout for the purchase, without allowing them to carry the item while browsing the store.
Perplexed by the situation, Shane remarked on the inconsistency, noting that while garden tools were under lock and key, potentially more hazardous items like shears and saws were readily available for purchase without such stringent measures.
The introduction of new knife laws in Queensland, effective from September 1 of the same year, brought about changes in the sale and storage of bladed items at Bunnings stores. These laws aimed to address rising concerns over reported offenses involving bladed products, particularly among minors, prompting the National Retail Association to advocate for stricter regulations.
As a response to the legislative changes, Bunnings modified its practices regarding the sale of knives and similar items in Queensland. The implementation involved secure storage of specific products and stringent age verification protocols to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Marg Walford, Queensland Bunnings General Manager of Operations, emphasized the company’s commitment to aligning with the updated laws and safeguarding the well-being of both customers and staff. She underscored the importance of adhering to age restrictions for bladed item purchases and reiterated Bunnings’ dedication to upholding regulatory standards across all its stores.
Furthermore, the new regulations extended beyond retail establishments to encompass diverse sellers and organizations dealing with controlled items. Sporting groups, online vendors, market sellers, and even individual sellers were required to comply with the stipulated guidelines, underscoring the broad reach of the legislation.
Overall, the incident at Bunnings shed light on the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding the sale of bladed items, prompting businesses and individuals alike to navigate the new legal framework governing the purchase and storage of potentially hazardous products.