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Expanded RECALL: Southwire’s non-contact voltage detectors (40110N, 40120N)

June 2, 2016 | By Renée Francoeur



June 2, 2016 (Updated June 10, 2016)Southwire has issued a recall for its non-contact voltage detector with model number 40120N and 40110N, sold as part of the multimeter kit. The detector is designed to alert users to the presence of electric current running through electrical wires with an AC detection range of 100 to 1000 VAC.   

This product, manufactured in China, has been found to give a false or “no voltage” reading when being used to test live wires for electric current, posing shock, electrocution and burn hazards.

The detector is cylindrically shaped, about 6 in. long and about 1 in. in diameter, and brown and black in colour with a white tip. It has a red LED light to indicate the presence of live electric current as well as a UL certification file number E36189.

Neither Health Canada nor Southwire have received any reports of incidents or injuries to Canadians related to the use of this product. But Southwire has received one report of a false reading by the voltage detector in the United States, where the consumer reportedly received an electrical shock and fell off a ladder.

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About 3700 units were sold in Canada (3600 were included in the previous recall on June 2, 2016), and approximately 1.2 million in the United States from June 2013 to February 2016 at various home and hardware stores and online.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled voltage detectors and contact Southwire for instructions on returning them for a free replacement at 1-855-798-6657.


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