FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2003
Release # 03-133
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Central Media Hotline: (866) 836-3929
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7908
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CPSC, Central Sprinkler Company Update Voluntary Recall To Replace
O-Ring Fire Sprinklers
WASHINGTON, D.C.- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and
Central Sprinkler Company, an affiliate of Tyco Fire Products LP, of
Lansdale, Pa., are announcing a modification to the voluntary
replacement program announced on July 19, 2001. The company is replacing
35 million Central fire sprinklers that have O-ring seals. The program
also includes a limited number of O-ring models sold by Gem Sprinkler
Company and Star Sprinkler, Inc. totaling about 167,000 sprinkler heads.
Under the original recall program, consumers were required to use
Central contractors. Now, after notifying Central in advance and
completing certain forms, consumers also can hire their own contractors
and be reimbursed for all or some of the labor charges.
Central initiated the voluntary replacement program in 2001
because it discovered the performance of these O-ring sprinklers can
degrade over time. These sprinkler heads can corrode or minerals, salts
and other contaminants in water can affect the rubber O-ring seals.
These factors could cause the sprinkler heads not to activate in a fire.
Central is providing newer fire sprinklers that do not use O-ring seals.
Central is providing free of charge replacement sprinkler heads
and the labor needed to replace the sprinklers. As before, Central will
arrange for the installation by using either its own Central Field
Service crews or by contracting with professional sprinkler contractors.
Now, consumers can arrange to have the free replacement sprinklers
installed themselves rather than waiting for Central to arrange for
installation. Subject to certain conditions, including advance notice to
Central, verification of the replacements and return of the removed
sprinklers, Central will provide either full or partial reimbursement
for labor charges.
Building and homeowners should check their fire sprinklers
immediately to see if they are part of this voluntary replacement
program. For more information on how to identify sprinklers subject to
this program and to learn how to participate in this program, call the
Notice Packet Request Line at 1-800-871-3492 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week or access the program's web site at www.SprinklerReplacement.com
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