From the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a new recall was announced today for horseshoe magnets for violation of lead paint safety standards. These have been sold for 12 years and even used in classrooms. The price point of about $1 makes them easily accessible to everyone, so check your toy boxes.
From the CPSC:
Name of Product: Horseshoe Magnets
Units: About 153,000
Importer: United Scientific, of Waukegan, Ill.
Hazard: Surface paint on the magnets contains high levels of lead,
violating the federal lead paint standards.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves horseshoe-shaped magnets sold in five sizes. The horseshoes have red paint on the surface of the magnet. Product numbers included in the recall are: SHM020 (two inch), SHM030 (three inch), SHM040 (four inch), SHM050 (five inch), and SHM060 (six inch).
Sold by: Independent distributors nationwide from March 1995 through September 2007 for about $1. Distributors sold the products to schools for use in science classes.
Manufactured in: India
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these products and contact United Scientific to receive a replacement product.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact United Scientific toll-free at (888) 284-8570 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through
Friday, or email the firm at consumeraffairs@unitedsci.com