Recall to Repair: Whitco Company LP Stadium Light Poles Can Fall Over, Posing Risk of Serious Injury and Death
Recall 10295 · Jul 6, 2010 · Whitco Company LP
2,500
units affected
2,500
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 10295
- Date
- Jul 6, 2010
- Company
- Whitco Company LP
- Units affected
- 2,500
- Product
- Whitco Company LP poles 70 feet tall or higher
- Product type
- Outdoor Electric Lighting Equipment
- Hazard
- Falls
The product
This recall to inspect and repair involves Whitco Co. LP outdoor steel stadium light poles from about 70 to 135 feet and weigh from about 1 to 4 tons. The poles are constructed of steel with a galvanized coating and were manufactured between 2000-2005.The poles can be found at facilities such as recreational parks and fields, schools and outdoor stadiums. Note: This release does not affect Whitco Pole products.
What can happen
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The fix
To reduce the risk of injury, Whitco Co. LP light poles should be inspected by an engineer or a Level II non-destructive testing technician immediately to identify cracking at or near the weld connecting the pole to the base plate flange. A visual examination with the naked eye or with a magnifier will not determine the extent of any cracking. Non-destructive techniques such as magnetic particle inspection, dye penetrant, or ultrasonic inspection techniques are recommended. If any cracking or fracturing is found, immediately have the affected poles repaired or replaced by a qualified professional. A design analysis to assess the stresses placed on the pole is also recommended. As the manufacturer has become bankrupt, individual owners of the poles must arrange for inspection.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- LP poles fell. In one incident, a pole fell through the roof of a school gymnasium causing significant property damage. In two other incidents, the poles fell onto outdoor bleachers causing significant property damage. The latest incident occurred at Integrity Park Inc. in Argyle, Texas. The majority of incidents occurred in Texas with others in several other states where Whitco Co. LP poles have been installed.
- Sold at
- Lighting contractors nationwide from 2000 through 2005.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled whitco company lp poles 70 feet tall or higher?
To reduce the risk of injury, Whitco Co. LP light poles should be inspected by an engineer or a Level II non-destructive testing technician immediately to identify cracking at or near the weld connecting the pole to the base plate flange. A visual examination with the naked eye or with a magnifier will not determine.
What is the hazard?
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A recall means the maker found a safety problem and offers a free fix; it does not mean every unit has the problem. Units affected are as reported by the company. Popular models sell more and so have more recalls and complaints. Official public data; texts are shortened. Contact the company named above for the remedy.