Scott Electric Co. Inc. Recalls Counterfeit Circuit Breakers Due To Fire Hazard

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2006
Release #07-036

Firm's Recall Hotline: (877) 222-0473
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Scott Electric Co. Inc. Recalls Counterfeit Circuit Breakers Due To Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Counterfeit "Square D" Circuit Breakers

Units: About 30,000

Distributor/Retailer: Scott Electric Co. Inc., of Greensburg, Pa.

Hazard: The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" are counterfeit and might not trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Scott Electric Co. is not aware of any incidents or injuries associated with these counterfeit circuit breakers.

Description: The counterfeit circuit breakers include Square D QO-series models 115, 120, 130, 160, 215, 230, 260, 1515, and 1520. Actual Square D circuit breakers have (a) the amp rating written on the handle in white paint on the front of the breaker; (b) on the side of the breaker, where wire terminal screw is located, the arc shoot opening should have squared corners with the bottom edge of the opening angled up; (c) the mounting clip should be yellow chromate with half of the top of the clip visible; and (d) the Square D insignia should be molded onto the breaker. If your Square D breaker does not match this description, it could be counterfeit.

Sold through: Scott Electric Co. distributor locations throughout Pennsylvania and Texas and nationwide at retail electrical supply and home stores from May 2005 through May 2006 for between $4 and $25.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should contact Scott Electric Co. to arrange for a free inspection and if necessary, replacement or refund.

Consumer Contact: To arrange for a free inspection or for additional information, contact Scott Electric toll-free at (877) 222-0473 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or log on to www.scottelectricusa.com - consumers and contractors can also obtain additional information by e-mailing Scott Electric at tdiorio@scottelectricusa.com

Genuine Square D Circuit Breaker