Southwire Recalls Non-Contact Voltage Detectors Due to Shock and Burn Hazards
Southwire is recalling approximately 1.2 million non-contact voltage detectors because they may provide false readings, posing shock and burn risks.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a significant injury report (electrical shock and fall) and poses a risk of electrocution, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.
Plain-English summary
Southwire Company LLC is recalling approximately 1.2 million non-contact voltage detectors, including models 40110N and 40120N. These devices are used to detect the presence of electric current in wires. The recall was initiated because the detectors can provide a false "no voltage" reading when testing live wires, which creates a risk of electric shock, electrocution, and burns for users.
The affected voltage detectors are cylindrical, approximately six inches long, and brownish gold with a black center insert. They feature red LED lights to indicate live current. Southwire is aware of one incident where a consumer received an electrical shock and fell off a ladder after the device gave a false reading. The products were sold at Lowe's and other home and hardware stores nationwide and online from June 2013 through February 2016 for approximately $15 each.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled voltage detectors. They should contact Southwire at 855-798-6657 or visit www.southwire.com to obtain instructions for a free replacement unit.
The recalled product
- Product
- Non-contact voltage detectors
- Manufacturer
- Southwire Company LLC, of Carrollton, Ga.
- Affected units
- 3,640
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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