SAFETY ANALYSIS OF HOUSEHOLD ELECTRIC KETTLES UNDER MISUSE SCENARIOS: A THEORETICAL STUDY OF COMMON HAZARD CASES AND THE APPLICATION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGIES TO ENHANCE SAFETY
Meshal Al Balawi,
Mohammed Al Ghamdi,
Ali Almosaileem
Abstract: Electric kettles are the most popular miniature household appliances, valued both for their convenience and effectiveness. Despite being built with safety features that will enable automatic shutdown and boil-dry protection, they have been shown in some tests to be frequently abused. The present paper theoretically investigates the most common abuses of electric kettles and associated safety hazards. Such risks include overfilling, boil-dry, warming of non-aqueous foods such as soup, milk, or thick substances, and improper cleaning practices. All these mishandlings could increase the potential risk of thermal burns, electric shock, fire, and appliance destruction. For systematic hazard identification purposes, the research utilizes Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Risk Matrix methodologies to categorize and prioritize hazards based on severity, frequency, and detectability. The research reveals a significant gap between consumer behavior and producer design assumptions that lead to unnecessary accidents. The research also evaluates current safety standards and certifications, such as IEC 60335-2-15 and EN 50564, and national eco-design regulations and new trends, such as AI-powered smart kettles, wireless charging systems, and fireproof and eco-friendly materials. The findings accentuate the importance of enhancing safety design, regulation adherence, and consumer education. The study recommends a multilateral strategy that encompasses pioneering engineering, consumer-oriented product design, and behavior change to counteract safety risks and synchronize home appliance use with emerging requirements of safety for modern homes.
Keywords: Electric kettle safety, Consumer misuse, Failure Mode and Effect Analysis, Risk assessment, Thermal burns, Electrical hazards, Smart appliances, IEC standards, Product design, Consumer behavior
DOI: 10.24874/PES08.02.013
Recieved: Revised: Accepted:
UDC:
Reads: 4 
