Key Takeaway
P&M Worm Probes Found Hazardous; Electrocution Risk Cited In CPSC Order To Halt Manufacture And Sale Of Worm Probes by P&M Enterprises was recalled on July 26, 1991.
P&M Worm Probes Found Hazardous; Electrocution Risk Cited In CPSC Order To Halt Manufacture And Sale Of Worm Probes
Description
July 26, 1991 Release # 91-099 PandM Worm Probes Found Hazardous; Electrocution Risk Cited In CPSC Order To Halt Manufacture And Sale Of Worm Probes WASHINGTON, DC -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has determined that the "WORM GETT'RS," an electric worm probe made by PandM Enterprises of Caldwell, Idaho, presents an electrocution hazard and may no longer be produced or sold. In a lengthy decision and Order issued on July 17, 1991, the Commission unanimously upheld the decision of Administrative Law Judge Paul J. Clerman that the PandM "WORM GETT'RS" was defective. The product, which is used to shock worms out of the ground, can expose users and passers-by to a lethal dose of electricity. The worm probe draws full line voltage, 110-120 volts, to its two, six, or 12 bare metal shafts. The Commission found that by touching the exposed shafts, or even by contacting the ground in the vicinity of the probe, consumers could be shocked or electrocuted. Twenty-eight persons, most of them children, have died using "functionally equivalent" worm probes. The Commission ordered PandM to refrain from manufacturing the product, offering it for sale, distributing it, or importing it into the United States. The agency directed its staff to work with PandM to notify the public of the hazard and to warn consumers against further use of the worm probe. Because the owners of PandM have declared bankruptcy, and lack the resources to conduct a recall campaign, the Commission did not require the firm to recall the hazardous probes. PandM can elect to appeal the Commission's decision to a Federal court. The CPSC has taken this action as part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is a Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. Some 15,000 different types of products fall under the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 28.5 million injuries and 21,600 deaths
Products Affected
Worm Gett'rs electric worm probes
Worm ProbesRelated Recalls
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recall still active?
Check the status badge at the top of this page. "Ongoing" means the recall is still active and you should follow the remedy instructions. "Completed" or "Terminated" means the recall process has concluded, though the safety issue remains relevant for any unrepaired products.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Compare the model number, lot code, serial number, or date range listed in the recall notice with the information on your product's label or packaging. For vehicles, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
What remedy is available for this recall?
Check the remedy section above or contact the manufacturer directly for current remedy options.
Where can I find the original recall notice?
This recall was issued by CPSC. You can view the original notice using the link provided above.