PlainRecalls
CPSC Moderate Active

Buckyballs High Powered Magnets Sets Recalled by Maxfield and Oberton Due to Violation of Federal Toy Standard

Reported: May 27, 2010 Initiated: May 27, 2010 #10251

Product Description

This recall involves the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+". The set contains 216 powerful rare earth magnets. It is intended to build unlimited shapes and patterns. Since March 2010, Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets were labeled "Keep Away From All Children" and are not being recalled.

Reason for Recall

The high powered magnets sets were labeled "Ages 13+" and do not meet the mandatory toy standard F963-08 (effective August 17, 2009) which requires that such powerful magnets are not sold for children under 14. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.

Remedy

Consumers should take the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+" away from children under 14 immediately and contact Maxfield and Oberton for instructions on receiving a refund upon return of a complete set of magnets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product was recalled?
This recall involves the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+". The set contains 216 powerful rare earth magnets. It is intended to build unlimited shapes and patterns. Since March 2010, Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets were labeled "Keep Away From All Children" and are not being recalled.. Units affected: About 175,000.
Why was this product recalled?
The high powered magnets sets were labeled "Ages 13+" and do not meet the mandatory toy standard F963-08 (effective August 17, 2009) which requires that such powerful magnets are not sold for children under 14. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforations or blockages, which can be fatal.
What should consumers do?
Consumers should take the Buckyballs® high powered magnets sets labeled "Ages 13+" away from children under 14 immediately and contact Maxfield and Oberton for instructions on receiving a refund upon return of a complete set of magnets.
Which agency issued this recall?
This recall was issued by the CPSC on May 27, 2010. Severity: Moderate. Recall number: 10251.