This is a scan from the back of a set of pre-packed leads from a local store:

It's the general sort of safety advice you might find printed on the DIY-style packs anywhere, but look at what was actually in this pack: A set of audio interconnect cords (Phono plugs are what are also known as RCA jacks in the U.S.)

Is the advice printed on this pack really relevant to what was in it?

I can't help feeling that the ever-increasing number of irrelevant warnings on things might diminish their effect on people on items where they are really needed.



[This message has been edited by pauluk (edited 03-11-2003).]

Paul, I wonder if these warnings are pre-printed on ALL cards and then the contents get printed on them after the cards are directed to the specific packaging lines.

It does make sense because that way the repacker/distributor only has to use one card for everything...keeps down the inventory.

Can you believe it—these warnings have been omitted from packaging for the latest MegaMongster Ultimate Yttrium-Palladium-doped phono cables? I suppose that they needed the space for hawking cables that provide Superior Grip™ for your sound system.

This reminds me of the standardised European warnings that come with all hand tools these days. (A page with something about standing steady, using adequate protection etc.) Even hammers come with a warning to protect your eyes.

I once looked at a car which had a warning on the rear mirror: 'Objects in mirror are closer than they appear'. I suppose some countries must be handing out driver's licenses to anyone and everyone...

While pouring a cup of coffee this morning,I noticed a warning on the coffee pot that read "DO NOT HOLD OVER OTHER PEOPLE" DUH

What on earth is the world coming to, with all of these (seemingly un-nessecary) warnings.
Are they there, to fend off likely lawsuits,
(well, you were warned! sort of thing) from injury caused by people not having thier brains in gear when they use various bits of equipment.
But Paul, the day I need to turn off the Mains AND remove a fuse to hook up my RCA leads on my stereo, is the day I hang up my Toolbelt, mate, I'll take up flower-arranging, much safer, and prettier too!.

Turn off the main breaker to hook up my stereo hah! Most of the time the stereo is still on when I'm behind there. I have those same cables too with the same warning (Cheap cables sound the same as the $50 ones do to me)