The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced the recall of approximately 83,750 Thomas Lighting ceiling flush mount light fixtures due to an increased risk of fire and/or electric shock. The wire insulation of the fixture’s socket may degrade, exposing the charged wires, and causing electricity to pass to the fixture’s metal canopy.
The company has received reports of 11 incidents involving defective fixtures, which resulted in the tripping of the homes’ Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFC). Fortunately no injuries have yet been reported.
There are 28 different models of ceiling-mounted light fixtures involved in this recall. All have diameters ranging from 7.5 inches to 13 inches and were manufactured from June 1, 2010 through November 25, 2010. They have a canopy or round base that attaches to the ceiling and a cylindrical or dome-shaped cover. The affected fixtures have a variety of finishes and contain between one and three light bulbs. The canopies come in a variety of colors and most models have a nib in the dome cover’s center in the same color as the canopy. The fixtures were sold for between $19 and $50 at lighting wholesalers and electrical distributors across the nation from July 2010 through July 2011.
Owners of the defective fixtures should immediately stop using them and avoid direct contact with them. Consumers should contact Thomas Lighting to arrange for an in-home repair of the fixture by a qualified electrician at no-cost. For additional information, consumers can call Thomas Lighting at (800) 764-0756 or visit their website at www.thomaslighting.com.
If you have been injured by a defective product in New Jersey, the experienced NJ household product defects attorneys at Blume Forte can help you understand your legal rights and potential options. To determine whether your claim may have merit, call us at 973-845-4421 for a no-cost consultation.