CPSC, Fluke Corp. Announce Recall of Digital Multimeters

Recalled August 19, 2002 · CPSC recall 02231 · Fluke

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.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using these testers immediately and contact Fluke for information on returning the recalled unit for a free repair.

Units

About 40,000

Incidents / injuries

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.

Description

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.

What to do

Consumers should stop using these testers immediately and contact Fluke for information on returning the recalled unit for a free repair.

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

Product

Fluke Digital Multimeters

Manufacturer(s)

Fluke Corp., of Everett, Wash.

Retailers

Home and hardware stores and industrial distributors nationwide sold these testers, from January 2001 through October 2001, for between $170 and $215.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Official recall notice on cpsc.gov →