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  • Product Alert: Dangerous Tools Recalled

    Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyers discuss a recall on dangerous tools. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, recently recalled several different tool models: a De WALT speed reversing drill, as well as a Black & Decker hammer drill and drill driver, to name a few. The De WALT product has been recalled because of defective wiring, which create shock hazards for users. In the case of the Black & Decker drill and driver, consumers are at risk for serious injuries resulting from product flaws leading to a loss of control during use.

    The Recall Details

    The CPSC is recalling more than 640,000 Black & Decker, Bostitch, and Porter-Cable speed hammer drills and drivers (drivers are simply another type of drill, which are notoriously stronger). The commission is also recalling more than 122,000 De WALT drills. Here are the affected product names, UPC (universal product code), and model numbers included in the CPSC’s recalls are as follows:

    • Porter-Cable ½ Inch VSR 2-Speed Hammer Drill (model number PC70THD);
    • Black & Decker ½ Inch Drill/Driver (model number DR560);
    • Bostitch ½ Inch Hammer Drill (model number BTE140 and BTE141);
    • De WALT DWD 110 (UPC number 885911037518) and De WALT DWD 112 (UPC number 885911057319)

    Although no injuries have been reported in association with the defective De WALT drills, Black & Decker has received at least 11 injury reports because of product defects so far. Some consumers reported that the drill’s side handles slip, causing a loss of control.  In at least one instance, a consumer experienced a severe rotator cuff injury that could have been prevented through safe and responsible product manufacturing.

    If you own any of the above recalled models, please discontinue use right away. You can visit the CPSC’s recall website or contact either of the manufacturing companies (De WALT and/or Black & Decker) for a full financial refund. The drills and drivers were sold at stores like Home Depot nationwide.

    Manufacturing and General Drill Safety Requirements

    All manufacturers are required to abide by numerous federal safety and health standards. These requirements are in place to ensure that consumers are protected from avoidable injuries and death. Manufacturing standards mandate that companies design and produce reasonably safe products, as well as products without dangerous or deadly defects. You can read more about the CPSC’s manufacturing requirements here: https://www.cpsc.gov/Regulations-Laws–Standards/Regulations-Mandatory-Standards-Bans/.

    Millions of workers employed in both the general and the construction industry work with tools on the job each and every day. Because drills can be dangerous whether or not they are defective – but particularly if they are – the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has control methods in place that help to uphold employee safety. Here are a few examples of OSHA’s control measures (for employers, supervisors, and employees) when it comes to drill safety:

    • Employers must train each employee on how to safely handle and use power drills;
    • Inspect every drill before use;
    • Look for breaks or tears in electrical wiring and drill housing connections;
    • Double check that you are using the right drill for the right job, and:
    • Always wear proper eye protection and appropriate clothing (e.g. non-slip footwear and gloves)

    Do you have questions about a workplace injury resulting from a defective tool or another injury related to an unsafe product? Someone at our firm can help. Call our number today and speak with a representative who will direct your call.

    Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyers at Galfand Berger, LLP: Representing Injured Individuals Since 1947

    If you were injured by a dangerous or defective product, we are happy to answer your questions and have one of our Philadelphia product liability lawyers review your case for free. Galfand Berger has offices located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. To schedule a consultation, call us at 800-222-8792 or complete our online contact form.

    ALLENTOWN/BETHLEHEM
    1-800-222-USWA (8792)

    LANCASTER
    717-824-3376

    READING
    610-376-1696