CPSC recall 03-117, announced April 25, 2003, covers Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers (approximately 400,000 units). These sprinklers are defective and are likely to fail to operate in a fire, thereby exposing consumers to the risk of death or serious injury. The notice cites 2 incident reports. Because SCM is no longer in operation and has no assets, it is unable to conduct a recall, so no free replacement or refund is available for its sprinklers. Recall contact: go to www.nfpa.org.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
SCM's Star ME-1 sprinklers have the following information molded onto the sprinkler: the name "Star," the designation "ME-1," and the year of manufacture starting with 1983 and ending with 1995. These sprinklers were typically installed in areas of buildings where the sprinklers or water supply pipes may be subject to freezing. Examples of such areas include unheated attics, freezers and coolers, porches and parking garages. The types of facilities in which the sprinklers were installed include nursing homes, convalescent and long-term care facilities, supermarkets and other stores, warehouses, hospitals, and office buildings.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
These sprinklers are defective and are likely to fail to operate in a fire, thereby exposing consumers to the risk of death or serious injury.
Incidents and injuries
CPSC has received reports of two failures involving Star ME-1 dry sprinklers. One report involved a 1976 sprinkler, and the other, sprinklers installed in 1990.
Official remedy
Because SCM is no longer in operation and has no assets, it is unable to conduct a recall, so no free replacement or refund is available for its sprinklers. Nevertheless, SCM urges building owners to follow CPSC guidance by inspecting the sprinkler systems in their buildings and replacing any Star ME-1 fire sprinklers manufactured from 1983 through 1995.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee, Inc. (SCM), formerly known as Star Sprinkler
- Manufacturer
- Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee, Inc. (SCM), formerly known as Star Sprinkler Corporation
- Recall number
- 03-117
- Units
- Approximately 400,000
- Manufactured in
- United Stateso
- Sold at / sales period
- These sprinklers were typically installed in areas of buildings where the sprinklers or water supply pipes may be subject to freezing. Examples of such areas include unheated attics, freezers and coolers, porches and parking garages. The types of facilities in which the sprinklers were installed include nursing homes, convalescent and long-term care facilities, supermarkets and other stores, warehouses, hospitals, and office buildings.
Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers
CPSC product type: Sprinklers (Fire)
Recall contact information
For more information about testing and replacing dry type fire sprinklers, visit NFPA's website at www.nfpa.org. For more information on the SCM Star ME-1 fire sprinklers, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638- 2772 or visit the National Fire Sprinkler Association's website at www.nfsa.org
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
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