There is a recall on Task Force 5-ton Electric Log splitters. These are silver and black models which were sold exclusively at Lowe’s stores nationwide from January 2008 – March 2011 for about $300. It seems that there have been some laceration and amputation issues. The electric log splitters have a hydraulic arm that, during use, slides under the handle used to move the machine. The moving hydraulic arm can cause a serious cut or even amputation if you place your hands on the handle while operating the splitter. So far there have been 2 injuries reported, including a fingertip amputation of an 18-year-old and one finger laceration injury of a 60-year-old man. Both accidents happened when the operators placed their hands on the handle while the splitter was in operation.
Here’s where it gets funny. The recall instructs all consumers to cease using the log splitter, but not because there is anything that will be fixed. Instead, they are to “contact Changzhou Globe Tool Group Co. Ltd. to receive a free set of warning labels including placement instructions.”
That has got to be one of the weirdest recalls we’ve ever seen. In effect, they are saying that the tool isn’t malfunctioning, so much as they are covering their liability by correctly labeling the safety precautions for the splitter. So don’t send in the tool, just contact them and get your free stickers. In addition, the recall itself doesn’t do too much to explain the problem or deliver specific (detailed) instructions for safe use of the tool… no, for that you need to wait for the stickers to show up. It reveals a failing of the system to take advantage of the existing mechanism of actually delivering good and useful information to consumers. Here are the specific recall details:
- Name of Product: Task Force 5-ton electric log splitters
- Units: About 20,000
- Manufacturer: Changzhou Globe Tool Group Co. Ltd., of China
- Hazard: The electric log splitters have a hydraulic arm that, during use, slides under the handle used to move the machine. The moving hydraulic arm poses a laceration or amputation injury hazard to individuals who place their hands on that handle while the splitter is in operation.
- Incident/Injuries: There have been two reports of injuries including a fingertip amputation of an 18-year-old man and one finger laceration injury of a 60-year-old man. Both individuals were injured after placing their hands on the handle while the splitter was in operation.
- Description: The log splitters are silver and black, electric 5-ton models. The log splitter is the Task Force Model 26083 with item #241483. The item number and model number is printed on the power switch label at the rear of the log splitter. “Task Force” is printed on the side rail of the log splitters.
- Sold Exclusively at: Lowe’s stores nationwide from January 2008 through March 2011 for about $300.
- Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled log splitters and contact Changzhou Globe Tool Group Co. Ltd. to receive a free set of warning labels including placement instructions.
- Consumer Contact: For additional information contact Changzhou Globe Tool Group Co. Ltd. toll-free at (866) 456-8934 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday or send an e-mail to [email protected]
