Ace Hardware Recalls Vinyl Window Blinds Due to Lead Content

Plain-English summary

Ace Hardware Corp. is recalling approximately 87,000 vinyl window blinds, including white miniblinds and woodgrain roll-up blinds, due to lead content exceeding government guidelines. The recalled blinds, which were manufactured in Thailand, do not have the required labeling warning that they contain lead. The blinds were sold at Ace Hardware and other hardware stores nationwide from August 1999 through May 2000 for between $6 and $27.

The hazard arises because vinyl deteriorates from exposure to sunlight and heat, forming lead dust on the surface of the blind. Young children can ingest this lead by wiping their hands on the blinds and then putting their hands in their mouths. Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems, and growth retardation. CPSC and Ace Hardware are not aware of any lead poisonings involving these window blinds, and the recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of such incidents.

Consumers should remove the window blinds from windows and keep them away from children. Consumers can return the window blinds to the store where they were purchased for a refund. For more information, consumers can call Ace Hardware Corp. toll-free at (877) 223-4391 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

The recalled product

Product

Vinyl window blinds

Manufacturer

Ace Hardware Corp., of Oak Brook, Ill.

Category

Consumer Product — Window Blinds

Hazard

• lead-poisoning
• mis-labeling

Affected units

87,000

Distribution

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