Recalls / 2002-01-23

CPSC, MCM International Announce Recall of Electric Pressure Washers

02086 · Recalled 2002-01-23 · CPSC page

Description

The recalled Black Cat™ pressure washers have a sticker with a cat and the words "Black-Cat" on each side of the unit. The model numbers - either BC-2000 or TW-1750 - can be found on a label on the right side of the power station. The label also reads in part, "Made in China," "High Pressure Cleaning Machines," and the "Production Date" (which should fall between March 2001 and July 2001). The GFCI plugs have a green "Reset" button and a blue "Test" button - some plugs also have a label that reads "CONNECT TO INDIVIDUAL BRANCH CIRCUIT ONLY." On the back of the GFCI plug near the electrical prongs are the words "WELLONG" and "Rainproof." CPSC reminds consumers that any electrical product that is used near water should contain a GFCI, in the plug or outlet. Prior to the implementation of the voluntary standard calling for the inclusion of GFCI plugs with high-pressure cleaning machines, there were several electrocution deaths and injuries. These incidents did not involve the Black Cat pressure washer.

Hazards

MCM International imported the pressure washers from a manufacturer in China, who installed counterfeit ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plugs on some of the units, without MCM's approval. All of the plugs are labeled "WELLONG"; however, the pressure washers with counterfeit "WELLONG" GFCI plugs appear virtually identical to those with genuine "WELLONG" GFCIs. It will require a professional inspection to identify the counterfeit GFCIs. GFCIs are important safety devices that are intended to protect consumers against shock or electrocution.

Reported injuries

CPSC and MCM International have not received any reports of incidents in which the GFCI plugs failed to operate. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using these pressure washers and discard the product. A remedy is no longer available.

Products

Name	Model	Units
Black Cat™ Electric Pressure Washers		About 50,000

Parties

Importer: MCM International, of Eden Prairie, Minn.
Made in: China
Sold at: Target, Menard's sold these pressure washers, from August 2001 to September 2001, for, $100.

Consumer contact

The firm is out of business. Consumers should call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).

More images

Source: CPSC recall 02086. Inclusion in this database is not legal or medical advice.