Recall News – Part 3

Motion Sensor Trash Cans Recalled Due to Laceration Hazard

On July 17, 2015, EKO recalled Motion Sensor Trash Cans sold exclusively at Costco due to a laceration hazard. The trash cans posed a very serious hazard – the black plastic protective collar in the opening on the back of the trash receptacle can become dislodged and expose a sharp edge, posing a risk of laceration to the user. The recall involves about 367,000 units. These trashcans open when they detect motion nearby.

General description: They are stainless steel, about 31 inches tall, and about 14 inches square. They have the capacity to hold 21 gallons of trash and the lid operates with eight AA batteries. Model number EK9288BMT-8OL can be seen on the product identification label on the underside of the trash can lid.

As far as incidents and injuries are concerned, EKO has received 13 reports of incidents in which the black plastic protective collar dislodged and exposed a sharp edge. This resulted in laceration injuries.

To remedy the situation: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled trash cans and return them to Costco for a full refund or contact EKO for a free repair kit with a redesigned black plastic protective collar and installation instructions. Consumer contact for EKO USA is (800) 354-7426 anytime.

These trashcans, for reference, were sold exclusively at Costco Wholesale stores nationwide and Costco.com between December 2013 and June 2015 for about $50.

Heatguard Temperature Devices Recalled Due to Scald Hazard

On July 16, 2015, Reliance Worldwide recalled Cash Acme Heatguard Temperature Actuated Flow Reducing Devices due to a scald hazard. The hazard refers to the thermal element in the TAFR failing to operate. This causes the users to come into contact with water that is hotter than expected. This poses a risk of a scalding injury. About 26,000 units were part of this recall.

The following TAFR models sold from December 2014 to May 2015 are included in the recall: Shower Safe Assembly Model Number SD-LF #24718, Tap Safe Assembly TD-LF #24719, and Shower Safe Assembly SD-01 #24110-0000. So far there were no incidents and injuries reported.

The situation can be remedied by consumers using caution when turning on faucets and showers with the recalled TAFR device installed and immediately contacting Reliance Worldwide to receive a free replacement TAFR. They will be mailed a replacement TAFR device. The consumer contact is Reliance Worldwide at (844) 441-1496 from 8 to 5 Monday through Friday.

Digital Camera Recalled Due to Shock Hazard

On July 15, 2015, Olympus recalled Digital Point-and-Shoot cameras due to a shock hazard. These cameras were sold exclusively at HHGregg Appliance. The Olympus VG 170 Digital Cameras pose a specific hazard; an improperly installed part can touch the camera’s circuit board, posing an electric shock risk to the user. About 1,200 units were part of this recall.

So far, no incidents or injuries were reported in the United States. However, as a remedy, consumers should immediately stop using the recalled digital camera and contact Olympus for a free inspection and repair service. Consumer contact for Olympus is (800) 622-6372 from 9 to 5:30 Monday through Friday.