RECALL: ‘Immediately stop using’ this power tool in Canada

A certain power tool has been recalled in Canada and consumers are being advised to “immediately stop using” it.

Health Canada said in a notice that it poses a risk of a laceration hazard.

The recall involves certain STIHL BR800 Backpack Blowers.

“STIHL Limited has issued a product safety recall for BR800 C-E Z and BR 800 X-Z backpack Blower models due to a possible fan wheel molding defect that could result in the fracture of the fan wheel during operation of the blower,” the notice said.

More specifically, Health Canada the following products are affected:

• Material number: 4283-011-1601
  Model: BR 800 C-E Z Magnum
  Affected serial number range: 546814154 – 547451772
• Material number: 4283-011-1611
  Model: BR 800 X-Z Magnum
  Affected serial number range: 546911615 – 547689841

The notice said that inspected or reworked units will have a black dot adjacent to the serial number; those are safe to use and don’t need to be returned.

There were 2,750 of the affected products sold in Canada from June to November.

As of Dec. 17, the company hasn’t received any injury reports in Canada, officials said.

Consumers were advised to not use any of the affected blowers and return them to a servicing STIHL dealer for an inspection and, if needed, replacement of the fan wheel.

STIHL can be contacted for more information by phone at 519-267-8445 or online.

“Please note that the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act prohibits recalled products from being redistributed, sold or even given away in Canada,” Health Canada said.

Product images via Health Canada