BANGKOK, Thailand – The Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) has successfully mediated a settlement in the case of a seven-year-old girl who suffered severe injuries after being electrocuted by an underwater pool light at a pool villa in Cha-am district, Phetchaburi province, in May. Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi said the operator accepted responsibility and agreed to compensate the child and her family, allowing the dispute to be resolved without court proceedings. Supamas said her adviser, Pradeamchai Boonchuaylua, and OCPB Secretary-General Ronnarong Phoolpipat have been tasked with providing continuous assistance to the family. Through the OCPB’s mediation process, the operator agreed to refund the accommodation fee and security deposit, cover the child’s medical expenses, and provide additional financial assistance. The family expressed satisfaction with the settlement.
Supamas said the OCPB acted promptly after receiving the complaint by referring the case to its consumer complaint mediation subcommittee. The minister reaffirmed that the agency remains committed to helping consumers obtain fair remedies through mediation and close coordination with relevant authorities. Minister Supamas also instructed the OCPB to work with local authorities and other agencies in Phetchaburi to inspect electrical systems and safety standards at accommodation facilities to help prevent similar incidents. She urged hotel and pool villa operators to regularly inspect electrical equipment, pool lighting, and other safety systems, while advising parents and guardians to check safety conditions before allowing children to use swimming pools. (NNT)
