CPSC, Fluke Corp. Announce Recall of Digital Multimeters
CPSC recall 02231 · announced August 19, 2002 · Fluke · 40,000 units affected
The product
Multimeters are used to measure voltage, resistance and current. The recalled Fluke digital multimeters measure up to 1,000 volts alternating current (VAC) and direct current (VDC). "Fluke" and "175", "177" or "179" are written on the front of the unit. The tester body is yellow and black, and measures about 7.25 inches long by 3.5 inches wide. Recalled units have a serial number below 79000000. The serial number is written on the back of the instrument, under the hinged stand.
The hazard
The recalled units can take longer than normal, up to 18 seconds, to display readings of AC voltages above 500 volts. Users can misinterpret the delayed reading to mean that high voltage is not present. If high voltage is present, users could be exposed to a risk of shock, electrocution, and thermal burns.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using these testers immediately and contact Fluke for information on returning the recalled unit for a free repair.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Fluke has received four reports from Canada and Australia, in which users experienced a delayed response, while measuring high voltage, though no injuries were reported.
Sold at: Home and hardware stores and industrial distributors nationwide sold these testers, from January 2001 through October 2001, for between $170 and $215.
Consumer contact: Consumers should call Fluke at (800) 260-4819 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or at the Fluke website www.fluke.com/170recall
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.