Age Verification Guidelines for Knives and Bladed Products

Comprehensive Age Verification Guidelines for Knives and Bladed Products when selling knives and bladed products.

As a vendor selling knives or bladed products on VegaVend, you must strictly adhere to UK laws regarding age verification. Consequently, it’s crucial to implement robust procedures to prevent underage sales and ensure compliance with the Offensive Weapons Act 2019

Legal Requirements

Firstly, it’s illegal to sell knives, bladed articles, or bladed products to anyone under 18 years old. Moreover, when delivering these items, they must not be handed over to individuals under 18. Therefore, you must verify the customer’s age both at the point of sale and delivery.

Online Age Verification Process

To begin with, implement a reliable age verification system on your VegaVend storefront. Subsequently, follow these steps:

• Clearly state that the product is age-restricted and requires verification.
• Use a robust age verification service that checks multiple databases, such as the electoral register and credit reference agencies.
• If the initial check fails, offer alternative verification methods like:
  • Biometric face analysis
  • Passport or driving license upload
  • Credit card details
• Ensure all data is encrypted and handled securely to comply with data protection regulations.

Delivery Verification

Additionally, you must take steps to verify age at delivery:

• Clearly label packages containing bladed products as age-restricted.
• Use a delivery service that verifies age upon handover.
• Never deliver to lockers or unattended locations where age can’t be verified.

Record Keeping

Furthermore, maintain detailed records of all age verifications for at least 12 months. This will help demonstrate compliance if questioned by authorities.

Staff Training

Moreover, ensure all staff involved in selling or dispatching bladed products are thoroughly trained on age verification procedures and legal requirements.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties. For instance, selling a bladed article to someone under 18 can lead to:

• A fine of up to £5,000
• Up to 6 months imprisonment
• Both a fine and imprisonment

Additional Considerations

Be aware of the following:

• The prohibition doesn’t apply to folding pocket knives with blades less than 7.62 cm (3 inches).
• It’s illegal to market knives as suitable for combat or in a way that encourages violent behaviour.

VegaVend’s Vendor Compliance Verification

VegaVend takes vendor compliance seriously to maintain the integrity and safety of our marketplace. Consequently, we require all vendors to undergo a thorough verification process before listing products on our platform. This process includes providing proof of relevant certifications, licenses, and adherence to age verification protocols for restricted items such as knives and bladed products. Furthermore, VegaVend conducts regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance. Vendors must be prepared to submit documentation, participate in spot checks, and demonstrate their commitment to following all applicable regulations. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in suspension or termination of the vendor’s account. By implementing these stringent measures, VegaVend aims to create a trustworthy environment for both sellers and buyers. If you need help please contact us.

In conclusion, by diligently following these guidelines, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of underage sales and ensure compliance with UK law. Remember, age verification is not just a legal requirement but also a crucial step in promoting responsible knife ownership and public safety.

Additional information

For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official guidance on the UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/selling-knives-online