DTI acts on complaints over Crocs accidents

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has confronted Crocs Philippines over reported cases of escalator accidents involving the popular shoe brand.

“Although it is yet to be determined whether these rubber clogs were the cause of unintentional risks to wearers, it is on the side of caution that we have called the attention of the distributor of Crocs to relay complaints forwarded to the DTI regarding injuries sustained especially by children,” Trade Undersecretary for consumer welfare Zenaida Cuison Maglaya said.

The DTI met with Conditions Gear Philippines Inc., the local distributor of Crocs, in response to the growing incidence of consumers, particularly kids, getting their toes caught in escalators while wearing the rubber clogs.

The DTI said the officials agreed to provide corresponding advisory and tips reminding consumers to be extra careful in using Crocs shoes in accident-prone places, particularly on escalators.

They likewise volunteered to post safety hangtags and labels in their stores to guide and educate the buying public.    

Recently, safety groups in the United States and Japan have issued warnings about soft-sided flexible clogs that pose safety hazards to escalator riders. Typically, the shoe becomes entrapped when the rider is stepping on or off the escalator or stands too close to the side walls.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that 77 escalator entrapment incidents have been reported since January 2006, half of which resulted in injury, and the Trade Ministry of Japan received 65 complaints on Crocs being stuck in escalators between June and November last year. Most of these cases involved young children.

Crocs is a popular brand of footwear made of closed cell resin, a versatile material developed for maximum cushioning. The comfort, bold colors and the unique design of the rubber clogs make it popular, especially to kids. — Ma. Elisa P. Osorio