Nokia has recalled around 14 million phone chargers due to a fault that could result in an electric shock.

Global mobile phone manufacturer Nokia has recalled approximately 14 million phone chargers because of the potential threat of electric shock.

Nokia has launched an exchange programme for the phone chargers, which the firm states were manufactured by a third party supplier.

According to the company, the plastic covers of the chargers could come loose and expose the charger’s internal components, potentially posing an electric shock hazard if the internal parts are touched while plugged into a live socket.

The recall affects chargers manufactured by the Chinese firm BYD between 15 June and 9 August this year for the model types AC-3U, AC-3E and for chargers created between 13 April and 25 October 2009 for the AC-4U model.

The majority of the affected chargers were sold in Europe and North America, and were available for purchase with Nokia devices and separately as an accessory.

In its statement on the Nokia website, the firm said: “The reliability and quality of our products is Nokia’s top priority.

“If you have confirmed that your charger is eligible to be replaced, we advise that you stop using it, and seek a free replacement charger.”

The recall remains a precaution as there are no recorded injuries caused by the chargers yet.

Customers can go the Nokia’s website to check whether their charger is being recalled and how they can receive a replacement device.

The third party supplier, BYD, which is responsible for the fault, will cover the cost of the replacements.