CPSC and Industry Recall 40 Million Halogen Torchiere Floor Lamps for Fire Risk

Plain-English summary

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the halogen lamp industry are cooperatively recalling approximately 40 million halogen torchiere floor lamps for in-home consumer repair. These lamps, which feature a shallow bowl-shaped light fixture on a 6-foot pole illuminated by a tubular halogen bulb, were first available in the United States in 1983. The recall is necessary because the halogen bulbs operate at temperatures much hotter than regular bulbs and can start fires if flammable materials, such as curtains or clothing, come into contact with them.

CPSC is aware of at least 189 fires and 11 deaths since 1992 involving halogen torchiere floor lamps. In 1996, CPSC tests showed that tubular halogen bulbs of 250, 300, and 500 watts could start a fire upon contact with flammable materials. Following these findings, the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) adopted a revised performance standard in February 1997, which requires improved safety features for lamps manufactured after that date.

Consumers who own these lamps without a glass or wire guard over the glass bulb shield can receive a free wire guard with installation instructions by calling (800) 523-5702 extension 592 or sending a postcard to Attention Consumer Services, 18191 NW 68th Avenue, Miami, FL 33015. Installing the wire guard makes it harder for flammable materials to touch the bulb. For the guard to be effective, consumers must use only halogen bulbs of 300 watts or less. CPSC advises keeping the lamp away from bedding, curtains, and clothing, and never leaving the lamp on when leaving the room.

The recalled product

Product

Action to Improve Safety of Halogen Torchiere Floor Lamps

Manufacturer

Montgomery Ward

Category

Consumer Product — Lighting

Hazard

• fire
• burn-injury

Distribution

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