CPSC Recalls Two Toy Electric Rock Polishers

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 1) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced the recall of two models of an electric rock polisher which pose a possible electric shock to the user.

"Tumble Stones, Model #1901 Rock Polisher" and "Deluxe Double Barrel, Tumble Stones, Model #1902 Rock Polisher," both manufactured by RAPCO, Division of Martin Yale Industries, Chicago, Illinois, fail to comply with Federal regulations for electrically-operated toys and are banned from sale.

Although no injuries associated with these rock polishers have been reported, both:

-- fail to provide protection from moving parts;

-- contain live parts which are accessible;

-- have electric power cords which are not adequately secured to the unit; and

-- the cords are shorter than the minimum required length of 5 feet.

Tumble Stones, Model #1901, consists of a yellow plastic tumbling barrel, a red plastic tumbling machine which is labeled in part "***Tumble Stones*** RAPCO Rock Polisher Hobby Equipment ***27 Watts, 120 Volts, 60 Cycle A.C. Motor RAPCO, Division of Martin Yale Industries, Inc., Chicago, Illinois 60624***." Deluxe Double Barrel, Tumble Stones, Model #1902, has two tumbling barrels and is labeled the same as Model #1901.

The toys were distributed nationwide to department stores, toy stores, discount stores and other retailers. Model #1901 retailed for $9.50, and Model #1902 retailed for $12.50. In total, approximately 45,900 units are involved in the recall.

Electric toys are subject to regulation under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA), which requires banned products to be repurchased by the manufacturer, distributor, and dealer. RAPCO, in compliance with FHSA regulations, is asking consumers to return the toy to the place of purchase or directly to the manufacturer -- RAPCO, 500 North Spaulding Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60624 -- for a full refund.

The Commission learned of this product as the result of a nationwide electric toy survey it conducted late last year. The Commission's Chicago Area Office is monitoring the recall.