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All product recalls associated with HBLA Imports.
Total Recalls
1000
Past Year
534
Class I (Serious)
17
Most Recent
Jan 2026
Data from FDA, USDA, CPSC, and NHTSA public records. Recall counts vary by company size, industry, and reporting practices. Always check official sources for current information.
Baby Cribs Recall by HBLA NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 25, 1987 Release # 87-076 Baby Cribs Recalled WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, HBLA Imports, Inc., Dallas, Texas, today announced a voluntary recall of their HBLA non-full size baby cribs imported in January 1985. The cribs, distributed in Arkansas; Texas; Oklahoma: Artesia, New Mexico; Pikeville, Kentucky; and Hammond, Louisiana, sell at retail for approximately $65.00. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has determined that this type of baby crib is banned because it fails to meet safety requirements with respect to hardware, spacing of crib spindles in slats decorative cutouts, assembly instructions, labeling, and mattress thickness. Potential hazards include falling from the crib, pinching, laceration, entrapment, and strangulation. The crib is available in white, pink, and blue with solid wood end panels, one wooden spindle fixed side rail, and one wooden spindle drop side rail. The crib is packaged in a cardboard carton labeled "HBLA Dallas made in Taiwan." The crib itself bears no labeling. A picture of children and rabbits is on each side of each end panel. Neither the Consumer Product Safety Commission nor the firm is aware of any injury associate with these cribs, but the recall is being made as a precaution. Owners of these cribs are urged to immediately remove these cribs from use and return them for a refund to the retailer where purchased. Retailers should remove these cribs from sale and return them to HBLA Imports, Inc., 1228 East Ledbetter, Dallas, Texas 75216. Consumers may wish to contact HBLA Imports, Inc., directly at 214-375-4831.
Blueray "Blue Flame" Furnace or Boiler Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Telephone Number Change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued October 27, 1987, Revised June 14, 2006 Release # 87-066 CPSC Warns of Potential For Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Involving Blueray "BLUE FLAME" Furnaces And Boilers WASHINGTON, DC -- In voluntary cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Blueray Systems, Inc., of Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, has initiated a program to alert oil heat service technicians, oil heat distributors and home owners of the importance of strict service and maintenance of the Blueray "blue flame" furnace or boiler. A total of nearly 21,000 of such furnaces and 14,500 boilers were produced between 1974 and 1983. According to the Commission, since 1979 there have been seven deaths from carbon monoxide poisonings that have been linked to improper maintenance or servicing of the Blueray "blue flame" furnaces or boilers. The firm is working through oil heat distributors and organizations servicing these distributors, to notify all persons living in homes where these furnaces have been installed, Consumers are being reminded that annual maintenance of the equipment is necessary for safety and efficiency. The need for this specialized maintenance is due to the design of the equipment for high-efficiency heating which requires annual servicing. Each household is also being supplied with a label to permanently attach to the furnace/boiler which alerts the home owner and the servicer of the necessity for strict adherence to all service and maintenance procedures prescribed by the firm. Consumers can determine if their furnace/boiler is one involved in this alert program by looking for a blue and white label on the equipment which reads "BLUERAY by Blueray Systems, Inc." The model number, BR 60/75, appears on a white label. Consumers having these furnaces should immediately contact Blueray Systems, Inc., to receive their free safety label, as well as copies of publications which describe the proper procedures for maintenance and service. Blueray can be reached by calling collect on (610) 789-6224 or by writing to: Blueray Systems, Inc., 8301 Lansdowne Avenue, Upper Darby, Pa 19082. To report unsafe consumer products or to receive safety information, call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
TX-900A Heater Recalled by Bernzomatic NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued September 15, 1987, Revised April 28, 2004 Release # 87-053 Note: Responding Firm Name, Location, Phone Number Change. Bernzomatic TX-900A Heater Recall -- $50 Refund Offered WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, BernzOmatic, once located in Medina, New York (now a brand under Irwin Industrial, located in Wilmington, OH), announced the recall of its model TX-900A portable propane gas radiant heaters last manufactured and sold by the company in 1966. The Commission is aware of 16 deaths and one serious injury that. have occurred since 1972, from asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning that may have been associated with the use of there heaters in poorly ventilated areas. The latest such incident occurred in December 1986. Directions which may be on the TX-900A heater state, among other things: "FOR COMPLETELY SAFE OPERATION, this heater SHOULD BE USED ONLY IN WELL VENTILATED AREAS, since all combustion heaters consume oxygen and exhaust fumes can be harmful. DO NOT USE WHEN SLEEPING." Consumers should immediately stop using these heaters and contact Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name). BernzOmatic is offering to refund owners $50 for each model TX-900A heater returned C.O.D. Approximately 33,000 TX-9OCA heaters were produced and sold by the manufacturer between 1962 and 1966. The heater (pictured) is housed in a blue or green metal cabinet approximately 9 inches wide x 14 inches high x 7 inches deep, with room inside for two 34.1 ounce propane gas cylinders. The name BernzOmatic appears on the front of the heater. The name BernzOmatic, the model number TX-SW and the description, Portable Gas Radiant Fester appear on instructions which may be on the inner side of the rear door. Owners of a model TX-90OA heater should call Irwin Industrial (which owns the BernzOmatic brand name) toll-free at 800-654-9011 for information on how to return the heater and obtain a refund. To determine if your product is covered by this announcement, consumers may call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 8OO-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054 . While BernzOmatic is voluntarily conducting this recall, it is BernzOmatic's position that its action does not constitute an admission that there has been any violation of any state, federal or common law, nor does BernzOmatic admit liability.
Timberform 4000 Playground Equipment Repaired by Columbia Cascade NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 20, 1987 Release # 87-004 Columbia Cascade To Repair Timberform 4000 Series Playground Equipment WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Columbia Cascade Timber Company, Portland, Oregon, today announced a voluntary repair program affecting an estimated 1,500 installations of their TimberForm 4000 Series Play Platforms. Children can become entrapped in the spaces between the metal ladder rungs and the wooden platform deck. The Commission and he firm are aware of at least 4 instances of head entrapment in these play structures. No injuries have been reported. All the reported incidents occurred during supervised play. TimberForm 4000 Series Play Platforms are installed in various configurations depending upon options ordered by each customer. It is, generally, heavy-duty wooden playground equipment, typically found on public playgrounds and at church, school, or childcare facilities. Using its sales records, Columbia Cascade will contact directly, by first class mail and through sales representatives, each known owner of the equipment involved to advise them of the hazard and arrange for repairs to prevent entrapment. The firm will provide, at no cost to the customer, all necessary parts and installation instructions. Columbia Cascade is repairing all TimberForm 4000 Series playground equipment sold before January 1, 1986. Anyone who believes they own the equipment involved in this program may contact Columbia Cascade for assistance in identifying the equipment and obtaining information about repairs. For additional information, contact Columbia Cascade Timber Company at 503-223-1157 (COLLECT) or call CPSC toll-free hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Bassinet Repaired by Badger Basket NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE July 22, 1986 Release # 86-44 Repair Program To Prevent Injury From Bassinet Collapse Announced Washington, DC -- In cooperation with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Badger Basket Company of Edgar, Wisconsin, announced a voluntary repair program for certain bassinets produced prior to 1982, due to the possible collapse of their leg braces. Bassinets produced after 1982 incorporate a leg brace of another design and are not affected. The Commission and Badger have investigated 7 instances in which the braces connecting the foldable legs to the bassinet collapsed. The Commission believes that serious injury can occur to an infant resting in the bassinet, if the leg brace were to collapse. The bassinets are wicker in style and the mattress pads may contain the name Badger Basket on the tag which says "Do Not Remove Under Penalty of Law". Only those bassinets produced and sold prior to 1982 are affected. Satisfactory design changes were implemented by the firm in 1982. Additionally, production after 1983 contains a date code (indicating the month, day, and year of production) on the bottom of the bassinets which clearly distinguish the new-style leg brace from the old (See drawings below). An estimated 500,000 bassinets may have been produced from 1958 to 1982. While the staff does not believe all pose a risk injury, depending upon the amount of the use, the potential may exist for a leg brace failure. Owners of the Badger Bassinets are urged to take the following action: During use of the bassinet, ensure that leg braces are locked in the open position. Periodically check the leg braces especially if the bassinet has not been used for a time and has been folded up in storage. Consumers who own Badger Bassinets produced prior to 1982 should contact the Company for a free repair kit. To obtain the free locking rings and instructions for installation, owners should send the tag that reads " Under Penalty of Law This Tag Is Not To Be Removed Except By The Consumer" from the mattress pad identifying Badger Basket with their name and address to Badger Basket Company, Edgar, Wisconsin 54426. If the Law Tag has been removed, contact the firm for a drawing of affected leg braces to assist you in the identification of leg braces which should be repaired. Repair Program To Prevent Injury From Bassinet Collapse Announced Under laws administered by CPSC, an estimated 325 million potentially hazardous products have been called back from the marketplace and consumers since 1937 (when CPSC was created). Most of these were voluntarily recalled by manufacturers who established programs to repair or replace the products, or to refund the purchase price. Repair Program To Prevent Injury From Bassinet Collapse SOME BADGER BASSINETS MAY NEED REPAIR KITS. Badger bassinets produced before 1982 may collapse due to failure of the leg brace, so the firm is providing looking rings to correct the problem. Consumers should remove the mattress label "Do Not Remove Under Penalty of Law," and send to Badger Basket Company, Eager, Wisconsin 54426, together with name and address for free repair kit. Bassinets produced after 1982 do not have the problem, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Certain Pacifiers Recalled by Monterey Laboratories NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 31, 1984 Release # 84-071 Monterey Laboratories, Inc., To Recall Certain Pacifiers WASHINGTON, D.C.-- In cooperation with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Monterey Laboratories, Inc., of Las Vegeas, Nevada today announced a voluntary recall affecting approximately 143 dozen pacifiers whose nipple may tear away from the pacifier while in use. The potential defect could result in a child either swallowing the nipple or inhaling the nipple into its windpipe. The design of the INF-920 has now been improved so that this potentially hazardous condition has been eliminated. Neither CPSC or Monterey has received reports of any injuries to consumers resulting from this potential defect. The recall is limited to certain Pur Model INF-920 regular shaped baby pacifiers distributed by Monterey and sold prior to December 11, 1984. Other Pur pacifiers and nipples, and all INF-920's purchased after December 11,1984, are unaffected by the recall. The 920 is made entirely of transparent plastic and silicon. The pacifier's shield has three ventilation holes molded into it, and the word "Pur" and the number "0","1","2" or "3" in raised lettering on the underside. It sells for between $1.49 and $1.69 at retail. There are no date codes or serial numbers by which potentially defective units can be differentiated from units which have no problems, so consumers should check to see if the store where they purchase the unit has a recall notice posted. If a notice is posted, the unit may have the potential problem and should be returned to that store. If there is no notice in the store, units may be returned by mail to Monterey. Any consumer with any doubt about whether an INF-920 he or she has purchased is one of the affected units may return it for a free replacement unit to the place or purchase, if a recall notice is posted there. If no recall notice is posted, the pacifier can be returned to Monterey at P.O. Box 15129, Las Vegas, Nevada 89114. Monterey will pay the postage on any units returned to it, and will provide a replacement pacifier and two free nipples. Consumers wishing further information may call Monterey Laboratories at 702-876-3888 or the CPSC toll free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
LP Valves Recalled by Robertshaw NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 16, 1984 Release # 84-032 $50 Bounty Offered For Robertshaw LP Valves Recall Washington, D. C. -- In cooperation with the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Robertshaw Controls Company, Richmond, Virginia, today announced a further expansion of its ongoing program to recover Unitrol 110 and 200 liquid propane (LP) gas water heater control valves by offering $50 cash and free replacement to homeowners who identify them in their homes. These valves, which were manufactured during the period of December 1954 through March 1957, may be involved in severe burn injuries and death resulting from explosion and fires. Since 1957, 48 deaths and 89 serious injuries involving water heaters using these controls have occurred. Although the controls are almost thirty years old, there is no practical way to estimate how many remain in use. In addition to the expanded notification efforts to recover the controls, the Commission and Robertshaw also announced the settlement of the Commission's pending action for a civil penalty against Robertshaw filed in Federal district court in Richmond, Virginia. The action was based on an allegation that Robertshaw had failed to comply with its obligation under Section 15 of the Consumer Product Safety Act to file an accurate report with the Commission concerning the controls. Robertshaw has agreed to pay the Commission $90,000 in settlement of the action. The CPSC voted unanimously to accept the corrective action plan. The CPSC voted 3 to 1 to accept the monetary settlement, with Commissioner Stuart M. Statler dissenting (dissent attached). In addition expanding its program to work with liquid propane dealers and service people to recover and replace affected controls, Robertshaw is now offering a $50 bounty to any user of LP gas who identifies the affected control value in their home, as well as a free replacement of it. Robertshaw is also commencing a notification effort through trade publications to further alert professionals who service or install LP-fueled water heaters to return to Robertshaw the controls they find instead of reusing them on other water heaters. Robertshaw is also continuing to pay these professionals a finder's fee for affected controls which are returned. Affected controls include Unitrol models 110 and 200, showing any date code which include the letters W or X, or the letter combinations LV, AY, BY or CY. Consumers can identify the affected units by looking for "Unitrol 110" on the face of the control or "Unitrol 200" on the temperature dial on the front of the control. The contsols located near the bottom of the water heater. Date codes are stamped next to the gas pilot outlet, which is located on the bottom side of the control and to the right. Use of a small mirror will aid consumers in reading the date code more easily. Consumers who own LP gas water heaters should check the heater control to determine if a Unitrol Model 110 or 200 with a.date code mentioned above has been used. If so, consumers should not attempt to remove or check the operation . of the controls themselves but rather should contact Robertshaw at its toll-free numbers 1-800-421-1130. In California call l-800-262-1173. Anyone wishing to verify the model numbers or the brand name should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Cribs Recalled by Bassett NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 Note: Phone number change. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Originally issued February, 1984; Revised June 21, 2001 Release # 84-013 Tragedies From Recalled Bassett Cribs Continue Washington, D.C. --A crib that has been the subject of an intensive recall effort since 1978 was involved in two additional strangulation deaths in the past year. In August 1983, a thirteen- month-old girl in the Sacramento, California, area, died from allegedly becoming entrapped in the headboard cutout pattern of a Candlelite Crib manufactured by Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. In January, 1983, a fifteen-month-old Kansas City, Missouri, area boy died when his head and neck allegedly became entrapped in the Candlelite headboard. The recalled cribs are: Candlelite(Pine Finish Model 5127, and Maple Finish Model 5028) and Mandalay (Yellow Finish Model 5126 or 5621, and White Finish Model 5225). The affected model numbers may be found ink-stamped near the bottom of the inside of the headboard. The Candlelite crib, along with another model known as tie Mandalay, were the targets of an extensive recall effort by Bassett and the Consumer Product Safety Commission from 1978 through 1980 after seven infants died of strangulation allegedly as a result of the headboard design. The cribs were made between 1974 and 1977, and about 7,400 of the cribs were sold; yet they have been associated, to date, with nine known deaths-- five with Candlelite and four with Mandalay. As a result of the two most recent tragedies, Bassett is presently voluntarily sending another warning poster to 42,000 pediatricians across the country for display in their waiting rooms. The Commission notes that pediatrician posters are extremely effective in warning the consumers of childrens hazards. The two deaths in 1983 follow three years of no reported entrapment incidents. It is suspected that after the wave of publicity of the 1980 recall receded, a second generation of cribs not reached by the recall have been removed from attic storage and handed down or sold second-hand. Owners of the recalled cribs, are urged to unscrew the four corner posts immediately. Taking off the corner posts alone may not eliminate the hazard. Consumers must also contact Bassett Consumer Affairs at (540) 629-6000 for a free modification kit. If a consumer is unsure whether his crib is a Candlelite or Mandalay, he should contact the company for clarification without delay. Further information may also be obtained by calling the CPSC toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is 800-639-8270.
June 1, 1982 Release # 82-024 Brass Craft Manually Operated Appliance Connector Valves Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in cooperation with Brass Craft Manufacturing Co., in Detroit, Michigan is voluntarily recalling approximately 112,000 manually operated gas appliance connector valves because drying of the valve lubricant may cause the valve to leak gas when in a closed position. Brass Craft has already received approximately 77,000 units. The non displaceable rotor gas valves being recalled were manufactured between November, 1980 and July, 1981. They were distributed after January 1, 1981 to a variety of original equipment manufacturers, wholesale hardware/plumbing distributors and retailers for consumer use in connecting gas appliances such as stoves or furnaces where a straight pipe connection does not exist. There have been no reports of failure or injuries associated with the use of the valves. The recall pertains to Brass Craft non displaceable rotor gas valves identified as: GFNDI - E4 GFNDI -H6 GFNDI - G4 MGFNDI - H6 or attached to connectors identified as: SC2E (all lengths) SC3E (all lengths) SC4E (all lengths) SClE (all lengths) SD7L (all lengths) MSC4E (all lengths) SD4L (all lengths) SC5E (all lengths) SL4L (all lengths) SL7L (all lengths) These valves are easily identified by a pyramid sign and the letters BC embossed on each handle. Any of these valves with a + (plus) sign shown ahead of the BC were manufactured after August, 1981 and are not included in this voluntary recall program. Consumers should exercise caution when attempting to locate the valve and its model number. If any odor of leaking gas is present, consumers should not attempt to locate the valve but should instead immediately contact their LP or Natural gas supplier or appliance installer/contractor for assistance. When looking for the valve and model number, consumers should be careful not to use matches or any other ignition source which could cause any accumulated gas to explode. Consumers who use one of these valves should immediately contact their appliance or furnace installer, the gas supplier or call Brass Craft collect at 313-871-0933 and ask for the Quality Assurance Manager for instructions to have a new control valve installed free of charge or call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll free Hotline at 800-638-2772
Baby Crib Brackets Recalled by Questor NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 17, 1981 Release # 81-028 Baby Crib Brackets Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 17) -- A voluntary recall of the brackets used on approximately 98,000 baby cribs for suspending the springs was announced today by the Questor Juvenile Furniture Company of Los Angeles, California, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall is being conducted to replace the plastic brackets on about 98,000 full-sized "Baby Line" cribs manufactured by Questor. In several cases the plastic brackets have broken or bent, causing the mattress and springs to drop slightly. Three infants reportedly have received minor injuries. The plastic "crib-spring hanger brackets" are mounted on each of the crib's four corner posts to suspend the springs by means of hooks. The recall covers those brackets used on 29 models of Baby Line cribs date-coded from June, 1977 through September, 1978 . Included in the 98,000 cribs are approximately 34,000 cribs which are continuing to be recalled by Questor as a result of a program which has been underway since 1979 for the same problem. Only cribs bearing the following date codes are involved: 677, 777, 877, 977, 1077, 1177, 1277, 178, 278, 378, 478, 578, 678, 778, 878 and 978. The date code is on a label on the inside bottom of the crib headboard. (A complete list of cribs with the plastic brackets are attached to this release.) Owners of these cribs should write to the manufacturer to obtain a free replacement kit containing metal hanger brackets and installation instructions. Letters should be addressed to Baby Line Furniture Co., 6235 South Street, Andrews Place, Los Angeles, California 90047, Attention: Corrective Program. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers and assembly dates may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
LP Gas Water Heater Controls Warning/Correction NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 29, 1981 Release # 81-005 Robertshaw Company Issues New Warning On Explosion Hazard In 1,000 LP Gas Water Heater Controls WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 29, 1981) -- The manufacturer of "Unitrol" fuel control mechanisms used on certain liquid propane gas water heaters is renewing its efforts to publicize and correct a potential defect which may cause severe burn injuries and death resulting from explosion and fires. Since 1954, when the fuel controls first were sold to hot water heater manufacturers, there have been at least 48 deaths and 89 severe burn injuries from explosions of water heaters equipped with these gas controls. The program to replace the old gas controls with new ones is being conducted by the Robertshaw Controls Company of Richmond, Va., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The manufacturer also is reissuing a national alert to warn consumers of the severe risk posed by continued use of water heaters equipped with the controls. The warning covers the "Unitrol" model 110 and model 200 gas controls used to regulate the flow of LP (liquid propane) gas to water heaters. These controls, manufactured about 25 years ago by Robertshaw's Grayson Controls division, of Long Beach, California, contain a potentially defective valve which could cause a gas leak and subsequent explosion and fire. Approximately 1,000 of the potentially defective controls still are believed to be in use nationwide. Many of these controls may be found on water heaters located in rural areas, such as in farm homes, in vacation or weekend homes, or in hunting or fishing camps. (LP gas commonly is used to fuel appliances in rural areas due to the unavailability of natural gas lines.) The potentially defective controls were sold to approximately 110 water heater manufacturers from December, 1954, through February, 1957. The controls include Unitrol models 110 and 200 showing any date code which includes the letters W or X, or the letter combinations LV, AY, BY or CY. Consumers can identify the affected units by looking for "Unitrol 110" on the face of the control, or for "Unitrol 200" on the temperature dial on the front of the control. The controls are located near the bottom of the water heater. Date codes are stamped next to the gas pilot outlet which is located on the bottom side of the control and to the right. Use of a small mirror will aid consumers in reading the date code more easily. In 1974, Robertshaw notified CPSC of the potential defect in the gas controls, and subsequently instituted a program to repair the devices. Consumers who own LP gas water heaters should check the heater control to determine if a Unitrol model 110 or 200 with a date code mentioned above has been used. If so, consumers then should contact Robertshaw at its toll-free number 800-421-1130. In California call 800-262-1173. Following a free inspection, the firm will install new controls if appropriate. Anyone wishing to verify the model numbers or the brand name should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.
Crib Decorations Recalled by Rainbow Artisans NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 7, 1980 Release # 80-029 Hazardous Crib Decorations Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 7, 1980) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced that approximately 8,000 elastic crib decorations known as "Kickers" are being recalled voluntarily by their manufacturer. CPSC staff believes that the decorations may pose a strangulation hazard to infants. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with CPSC to prevent any potential strangulation, although no injuries have been reported to the Commission or the manufacturer. Each "Kicker" crib decoration, manufactured by Rainbow Artisans, Inc., of Livingston, New Jersey, consists of four or five soft-sculptured fabric designs strung on a white elastic cord. A plastic ring is attached to each end of the elastic cord so that the decoration may be stretched across a crib or baby carriage and tied to the sides with ribbons. The crib decorations are manufactured in such a way that, if kicked or handled by an infant, the fabric designs may slide from one side of the elastic cord to the other. Such actions may expose enough elastic cord to present a potential strangulation hazard if parents place the product too close to the infant, according to CPSC staff. The "Kickers" being recalled were manufactured from January, 1977, through January, 1980, and were sold nationwide for approximately $12 in retail and specialty stores. Consumers who own this product may obtain a free repair kit by cutting the elastic cord, removing the fabric designs and mailing only the cord and plastic rings to: Rainbow Artisans, Inc., 19 Troy Drive, Livingston, New Jersey 07039. The kit includes a new cotton cord, ribbon and instructions for restringing the designs.
Cribs Repaired by Bassett The terms of the agreement require Bassett to undertake an extensive remedial action program and to pay a $175,000 civil penalty. The firm estimates that the cost of the program, including the civil penalty, could be as high as $1 million. Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., of Bassett, Virginia, is the manufacturer of the "Candlelite" and "Mandalay" style cribs which reported have caused six infant deaths since 1977. CPSC staff believes that the crib design is such that infants can trap their heads between a corner post and the headboard (or footboard) and strangle as they stand on the crib mattress. The agreement pertains to the "Mandalay" crib models 5126-505, 5621-505 and 5225-505, and to "Candlelite" models 5028-505, 5028-510, 5127-505 and 5127-510. The model numbers can be found on an adhesive label affixed to the inside of the headboard below the mattress level. "Mandalay" cribs manufactured February, 1974, to October, 1976, sold nationwide for approximately $100 to $125 in retail stores. The "Candlelite" cribs sold for approximately $100 , produced from December, 1975, to mid-October, 1977. Consumers who own one of these cribs which has not yet been modified immediately should contact Bassett to obtain a free repair kit or instructions for eliminating the hazard. Consumers can contact Bassett at its toll-free number l-800-336-5223. (In Virginia, collect telephone call to Bassett at (703) 629-7511, extension 340). In its proposed complaint against Bassett, CPSC staff alleged that the two crib styles pose a substantial risk of strangulation injuries or death to infants. The "Mandalay" cribs could present a strangulation hazard but failed to report to CPSC staff. In entering into the consent agreement, Bassett does not admit that it had an obligation to report, that reportable information exists, or that the product presented a substantial hazard. Bassett had been undertaking corrective action since February, 1978 to locate and modify the potentially hazardous cribs. Despite its efforts, approximately 4,700 "Mandalay" style cribs (out of an estimated 5,800 produced) and about 400 "Candlelite" cribs (of 1,654 produced) still may not have been modified to eliminate the hazard. The central part of the consent agreement requires Bassett to take the unprecedented step of sending hazard notifications by direct mail to all parents who have had children within the previous 21 months. This mailing is expected to include more than four million parents of infants and young children. In addition, Bassett will purchase advertising space in "TV Guide" and "Family Circle" magazines, in which they will run l/2-page advertisements warning consumers of the potential crib hazard. These magazines have a combined total readership of more than 27 million people. As an added incentive to consumers, Bassett will pay a $5 cash award to anyone who identifies the location of an unmodified crib, once its repair has been verified. Bassett further has agreed to mail posters which describe the crib hazard and the needed safety modification to all obstetricians and gynecologists practicing in the U.S., as well as to all pediatric and maternity clinics, for display in their offices. As part of its earlier voluntary corrective action with CPSC, Bassett already has distributed posters to approximately 25,000 pediatricians and to some medical clinics. In addition, Bassett agreed to pay a civil penalty of $175,000 settlement of CPSC staff's allegation that the firm failed promptly to report the alleged defect in the cribs. The Commission will vote whether to give final approval to the agreement following a seven-day public comment period which opens on February 14, when the agreement is published in the Federal Register
Bassett Baby Cribs Warning Against Potential Strangulations by continued use of two dangerous types of baby cribs. This announcement involves cribs manufactured by Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., of Bassett, Virginia cribs requiring modification include the "Mandalaya" and "Candlelite" style beds. They were designed in such a way that infants can trap their heads between a corner post and the headboard (or footboard), and strangle. CPSC received six reports of such deaths among infants since September, 1977. CPSC and Bassett announced a voluntary program to modify the cribs in May, 1978. Only 1,000 of the "Mandalay" cribs reportedly have been modified. Approximately 1,200 of the 1,654 Candlelite cribs have been repaired. Bassett agreed to produce thousands of large wall posters and to have them distributed to pediatricians nationwide for display in physician's waiting rooms. The Mandalay cribs were produced with a bamboo-like motif, and include models 5126-505 and 5621-505 (painted yellow) and 5225-505 (painted white). The model numbers can be found on an adhesive label affixed to the inside of the headboard below the mattress level. The cribs were manufactured from February, 1974, through October, 1976, and sold for approximately $100 to $125 in retail stores nationwide. Parents should remove all four finials (the decorative knobs on top of each cornerpost) by unscrewing them. Consumers then should report that they have removed the finials by contacting the retailer from which the crib was purchased or the nearest Bassett crib dealer can be found by checking the "Yellow Pages" section of the telephone directory under the listing "Furniture--Children's," or by placing a collect call to Bassett at 703/629-7511, extension 340. The Candlelite style cribs were manufactured with a traditional colonial design in models 5028-505 and 5028-510 (stained in maple) and 5127-505 and 5127-510 (stained in pine). These model numbers also are printed on a label attached to the inside of the headboard below the mattress. The cribs sold for approximately $100 in retail stores nationwide, and were manufactured from December, 1975, to mid-October, 1977. Consumers who have not had their Candlelite cribs modified should contact the tore where it was purchased to arrange for free installation of modifying parts to close the openings in the headboards and footboards. Parents arrange to have cribs repaired by contacting their nearest Bassett retailer, obtained form the telephone directory or by calling Basett at the number listed above. Until the Candlelite cribs have been repaired, parents should push one end of the crib against a wall and move a high piece of furniture (such as a chest of drawers) against the other end. Other Cribs CPSC staff is trying to determine whether baby cribs other than those manufactured by Bassett are designed with headboard and footboard openings which my pose potential safety hazards to infants.
Commercial Hair Dryers Corrected by Bonat NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 20, 1979 Release # 79-048 Commission Accepts Asbestos Correction Plan From Commercial Hair Dryer Manufacturer WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 20) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the manufacturer of the "Rocket Blower", a commercial hair dryer used nationwide in beauty salons patronized primarily by blacks, today announced a voluntary program for the removal and replacement of asbestos heat shields in the hair dryers. The correction program has been accepted by the Commission as adequate. The manufacturer, Bonat Inc., of West Patterson, New Jersey, estimates that since 1972 approximately 1,000 of the special purpose hair dryers have been sold to distributors for resale to beauty salons. The company estimates that perhaps 500 individual beauty salons currently may be using the "Rocket Blower", predominantly in major urban areas. Bonat and CPSC will be instructing Bonat distributors and their beauty salon customers to return the dryers for retrofitting. Bonat has informed the Commission that it believes these hair dryers do not present a health hazard. Although Bonat therefore feels it is not legally obligated to undertake the correction program, it has agreed to do so voluntarily. Distributors and their beauty salon operators can identify the "Rocket Blower" by its name on the label, which reads "Bonat Blower Dryer." The "Rocket Blower" models requiring removal of the asbestos heat shield are models B-10, B-11 and B-14. No other Bonat dryers have been manufactured with asbestos heat shields. The replacement program is scheduled to begin in mid-October when the company will have completed its retrofitting arrangements. Beauty salon operators are being advised to write the Bonat company at 250 Lackawanna Ave., West Patterson, New Jersey 07424, to receive details of the retrofit program. Salon operators also may contact CPSC at the agency's toll-free Hotline, 800/638-2772, to initiate participation in the program.
Brackets On Cribs Recalled by Questor NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 9, 1979 Release # 79-038 Brackets On Cribs Recalled WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 9) -- A voluntary recall of plastic brackets used to support the springs on approximately 34,500 full-sized "Babyline" cribs was announced today by the Questor Juvenile Furniture Company of Los Angeles, California. The announcement was made in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. In a report to the Commission, the firm cited six instances in which the plastic brackets broke, causing the mattress and springs to drop slightly. Two infants have received minor injuries. The plastic "crib-spring hanger brackets" are mounted on each of the cribs' four corner posts to suspend the springs by means of hooks. The recall affects those brackets used on 29 models of Babyline cribs date-coded in the period from June, 1977 through January, 1978. Only cribs bearing the following date codes are involved: 677, 777, 877, 977, 1077, 1277 and 178. The date code is on a label on the inside bottom of the crib headboard. (A complete list of cribs with the plastic brackets is attached.) Owners of these cribs should write the manufacturer to obtain a free replacement kit containing metal hanger brackets and installation instructions. Letters should be addressed to Baby Line Furniture, 6235 South Saint Andrews Place, Los Angeles, California, 90047, Attention: Corrective Program. Anyone wishing to verify model numbers and assembly dates may contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.
May 5, 1978 Release # 78-032 Baby Crib Poses Potential Danger To Infants WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 5) -- Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., Bassett, Va., and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced that about 6,000 Bassett cribs with bamboo-like motif have a potentially dangerous design problem. The Commission believes that the design of the headboards and footboards in Bassett cribs with model numbers 5126, 5621 and 5225 may permit infants to become entrapped and strangle while standing in the cribs. One such report is currently being investigated. The complete model numbers of the "Mandalay" style cribs are 5126-505 and 5621- 505 both colored yellow, and 5225-505, colored white, The model numbers are printed on adhesive labels affixed to the headboards of the cribs below the mattress level. The cribs retailed for approximately $l00-$125 each and were sold nationwide. Bassett manufactured these cribs from February 1974 to October 1976. Consumers who have one of these cribs are urged to immediately remove all four finials (the top part of the corner post which unscrews) by rotating them counterclockwise until they unscrew and can be lifted off. Consumers should report the removal of the finials to the retailer from whom they purchased the crib along with their name, address, and telephone number. If that is not possible, report to the nearest Bassett retailer. This notice is not to be confused with one issued by Bassett and the Commission on February 21,1978, involving a possible similar problem with Bassett model number 5127 and 5028 cribs. To verify model numbers or to report a product-related injury, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772
Baby Cribs Modified by Bassett NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 21, 1978 Release # 78-014 Modification Of Baby Cribs Announced WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 21) -- Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today jointly announced the company's continuing voluntary notification program which is aimed at advising some 1,654 purchasers of certain Bassett Cribs that modification kits are available free of charge. The Commission urges that the kits be used to correct a potentially dangerous design problem. Bassett Cribs with model numbers 5028 and 5127 were produced with a cut-out design in the headboards and footboards. The Commission believes that infants may be entrapped and strangled while standing in the cribs because it has received and investigated two such reports. Bassett stopped manufacturing these models when the company learned of the first such incident and has undertaken a nationwide program to advise consumers, retailers, and salespeople that a free modification kit is available from retailers. The company believes that the majority of these cribs sold nationally have already been modified or returned. The model numbers of the cribs being modified are 5028-505 and 5028-510, both stained in maple; and 5127-505 and 5127-510, both stained in pine. No other models of Bassett cribs are involved. The model numbers are printed on adhesive labels affixed to the headboards of the cribs below the mattresses. These cribs retailed for approximately $100 each and were sold nationwide from December 1975 to mid-October 1977. Bassett has removed the cut-out design from its product line and has shipped to all stores which received these cribs a modification kit to close the openings in the headboards and footboards. Bassett has directed these stores to contact owners of the cribs to arrange for free installation of the modification kits. Consumers who have one of these unmodified cribs should immediately contact the store where purchased to arrange for free installation of this kit. If that is not possible contact the nearest Bassett retailer by checking your local phone directory or call Bassett collect at area code 703/629-7511, ext. 340. Caution should be exercised in the use of these cribs until the modification kit is installed. Information on this modification is also available by calling the Commission's toll-free HOTLINE at 800/638-2772.
Gas & Electric Dryers Manufactured by Lux Time Co. Warning NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 15, 1974 Release # 74-008 CPSC Issues Warning Of Electric Shock Hazard In Gas And Electric Dryers WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb.15)--The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today warned consumers that approximately 3,000 gas and electric clothes dryers manufactured after November 8, 1973, and sold in the past four months may have potentially defective timers capable of causing fatal electric shock. Owners of the suspect units are urged to immediately unplug the dryer, being careful not to touch any metal surfaces. The model and serial number may be located by opening the door of the clothes dryer and looking at the upper lefthand corner of the door well. The timers were manufactured by Lux Time Company of Connecticut, a division of Robertshaw Controls Company, and were sold to the Franklin Manufacturing Company, Webster City, Iowa, which, in turn, sold them to the six dryer manufacturers. The Franklin Manufacturing Company, a subsidiary of White Consolidated of Cleveland, Ohio, reported the defect to the Commission February 12, and has directed its customers to halt delivery on the dryers. The firm has advised consumers who may have purchased any of the dryers in question to contact the dealer from whom it was purchased for inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the control at no cost to the customer. For further information, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission toll-free hot line (800) 638-2772. Customer Brand Name # Units Model # Serial #'s Kelvinator, Inc. Kelvinator 1,569 DE640GA DE522GW DE522GC DE522GH DE522GA 042210 & 042292 037466 - 041533 037198 - 040199 037696 - 041287 036604 - 040842 WT Grant Bradford 870 78-196 78-303 78-204 78-212 78-287 42119 - 43469 40221 - 42711 41325 - 43669 38839 - 43368 42318 - 42416 Admiral Corp. Admiral 479 LDE 1833 LDG 1833 LDE 1835 3058824 - 3067520 3061381 - 3068230 3067699 - 3067760 3065180 Hamilton Appliance Co. Hamilton 175 DS 253W DP 253W DS 153W 33057 & 33107 32710 - 32884 32912 - 33319 Gamble-Skogmo Coronado 158 45-1203 45-1223 12328 - 12427 12228 - 12319 Kalvinator Sales of Puerto Rico Kelvinator 126 DE522G-W DE522G-H DE522G-A DE522G-C 038421 - 038490 039078 - 039107 036584 - 036603 037240 - 040194