Safety regulator, MCM International Announce Recall of Electric Pressure Washers
Recall 02086 · Jan 23, 2002 · MCM International
50,000
units affected
50,000
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 02086
- Date
- Jan 23, 2002
- Company
- MCM International
- Units affected
- 50,000
- Product
- Black Cat™ Electric Pressure Washers
- Product type
- Pressure Washers
- Hazard
- Electric shock
The product
The recalled Black Cat™ pressure washers have a sticker with a cat and the words "Black-Cat" on each side of the unit. The model numbers - either BC-2000 or TW-1750 - can be found on a label on the right side of the power station. The label also reads in part, "Made in China," "High Pressure Cleaning Machines," and the "Production Date" (which should fall between March 2001 and July 2001). Prior to the implementation of the voluntary standard calling for the inclusion of GFCI plugs with high-pressure cleaning machines, there were several electrocution deaths and injuries. These incidents did not involve the Black Cat pressure washer.
What can happen
MCM International imported the pressure washers from a manufacturer in China, who installed counterfeit ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plugs on some of the units, without MCM's approval. All of the plugs are labeled "WELLONG"; however, the pressure washers with counterfeit "WELLONG" GFCI plugs appear virtually identical to those with genuine "WELLONG" GFCIs. It will require a professional inspection to identify the counterfeit GFCIs. GFCIs are important safety devices that are intended to protect consumers against shock or electrocution.
The fix
Consumers should stop using these pressure washers and discard the product. A remedy is no longer available.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.
- Sold at
- Target and Menard's stores nationwide sold these pressure washers, from August 2001 to September 2001, for between $85 and $100.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled black cat™ electric pressure washers?
Consumers should stop using these pressure washers and discard the product. A remedy is no longer available.
What is the hazard?
MCM International imported the pressure washers from a manufacturer in China, who installed counterfeit ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plugs on some of the units, without MCM's approval. All of the plugs are labeled "WELLONG"; however, the pressure washers with counterfeit "WELLONG" GFCI plugs appear.
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.