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CPSC, Luxo Corp. Announce Recall of Portable Fluorescent Lamps

Reported: June 4, 2002 Initiated: June 4, 2002 #02172

Product Description

The lamps are 18-watt portable fluorescent lamps that have a black plastic housing and mount to a desk or sit on a base. Model PS355 and PS360 with serial numbers between 198076 and 244871 and between 35500001 and 36003256 are included in the recall. The PS355 model has a 34-inch swing arm and the PS360 has a 19-inch swing arm. The serial number and "MADE IN TAIWAN" can be found on a silver label located on the back of the light bulb cover. The lamps have also been sold under the names "Big Dipper" and "Little Dipper."

Reason for Recall

The ballast (the electrical part located in the arm of the lamp) in these lamps can overheat, short-circuit, and melt the insulating cover of the ballast, causing the lamp to fail and posing a skin burn hazard to consumers.

Remedy

Consumers with the recalled units should unplug the lamps and stop using them immediately. Contact Luxo to return the lamp and receive a replacement lamp. Luxo will extend the warranty on the replacement lamps for 3 years from the date of replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product was recalled?
The lamps are 18-watt portable fluorescent lamps that have a black plastic housing and mount to a desk or sit on a base. Model PS355 and PS360 with serial numbers between 198076 and 244871 and between 35500001 and 36003256 are included in the recall. The PS355 model has a 34-inch swing arm and the PS360 has a 19-inch swing arm. The serial number and "MADE IN TAIWAN" can be found on a silver label located on the back of the light bulb cover. The lamps have also been sold under the names "Big Dipper" and "Little Dipper.". Units affected: About 18,300.
Why was this product recalled?
The ballast (the electrical part located in the arm of the lamp) in these lamps can overheat, short-circuit, and melt the insulating cover of the ballast, causing the lamp to fail and posing a skin burn hazard to consumers.
What should consumers do?
Consumers with the recalled units should unplug the lamps and stop using them immediately. Contact Luxo to return the lamp and receive a replacement lamp. Luxo will extend the warranty on the replacement lamps for 3 years from the date of replacement.
Which agency issued this recall?
This recall was issued by the CPSC on June 4, 2002. Severity: Moderate. Recall number: 02172.