Recall #08-286 · Published May 27, 2008

Specialty Lamp International Counterfeit Circuit Breakers labeled as "Square D"

Counterfeit Circuit Breakers Recalled By Specialty Lamp International Due to Fire Hazard

CPSC published a recall notice for Counterfeit Circuit Breakers labeled as "Square D" from Specialty Lamp International on May 27, 2008. CPSC identifies this hazard: The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" have been determined by Square D to be counterfeit and can fail to trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers should contact Specialty to determine if the breaker they have is counterfeit and to arrange for a free inspection and replacement or refund if necessary.

Genuine Square D Circuit Breaker
Genuine Square D Circuit Breaker
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

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?

The counterfeit circuit breakers are black and are labeled as Square D QO-series models 115, 120, 130, 215, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260 and 2020 and Square D QOB-series models 115, 120, 130, 220, 230, 250, 260 and 1515. Actual Square D circuit breakers have (a) the amp rating written on the handle in white paint on the front of the breaker (authentic Square D circuit breakers manufactured prior to 2003 did not have white paint on the amperage numbers); (b) the Square D insignia molded onto the breaker side, and; (c) a yellow chromate mounting clip with half of the top of the clip visible. If your breaker, labeled as Square D, does not match this description, it could be counterfeit.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" have been determined by Square D to be counterfeit and can fail to trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

None reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should contact Specialty to determine if the breaker they have is counterfeit and to arrange for a free inspection and replacement or refund if necessary.

Product and sales details

Brand
Specialty Lamp International
Product type
Lamps
Recall number
08-286
Units
About 371,000
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
Electrical product distributors nationwide from May 2005 through June 2006 for between $3 and $23.
Distributor
Specialty Lamp International Inc., of Deerfield Beach, Fla.

Counterfeit Circuit Breakers labeled as "Square D"

CPSC product type: Circuit Breakers

Recall contact information

For additional information, contact Specialty at (866) 650-3076 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, by email bart@specialty-lamp.com, or visit the company's Web site at www.ebulb.net. This is not a Square D Company recall.

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

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