Klein Tool Recall

Klein Tools recently announced a recall and retrofit program for certain insulated tools.  The types of tools covered by the recall are insulated pliers, insulated cable cutters, and insulated stripping and crimping tools that were manufactured before March1, 1998, and have the letters 'INS' as a suffix in the part number.

For further information, call the Klein Recall hotline at 1-800-757-2604.

INSULATED TOOLS
RECALL / RETROFIT NOTICE

IMPORTANT USER NOTIFICATION

It has recently come to our attention that certain INSULATED TOOLS, manufactured by Klein Tools, Inc. and others, may not meet the impact test as described in the appropriate ASTM standard. Therefore, Klein Tools is initiating a RECALL AND RETROFIT PROGRAM for the following insulated Klein tools sold since their introduction in 1993:

• Insulated Pliers
• Insulated Cable Cutters
• Insulated Stripping & Crimping Tools

This recall and retrofit includes only those pliers, cable cutters, stripping and crimping tools that were (1) manufactured before March 1, 1998, and (2) that have the letters (INS) as a suffix in the part number ( Example, D213-9NE-INS). See the complete list included with this mailing. The date of manufacture is indicated under the part number on the tool handle as year and week. Tools included in this recall are marked 1998 W:10 or earlier.

While all Klein insulated tools are tested to insure they pass the appropriate dielectric test before they leave the factory, additional testing has indicated that the insulation on the handle ends of some insulated tools could become damaged when subjected to substantial impact, such as being dropped onto a hard surface.

STOP USING THESE TOOLS IMMEDIATELY!!

and

RETURN AFFECTED TOOLS TO KLEIN TOOLS

Upon receipt of the products Klein will install a protective cap over the product handles, dielectrically test, resharpen and return the product as quickly as possible.

User product return procedures

1) Telephone our shipping service (RPS) at 1-800-762-3725 to arrange prepaid shipping to Klein Tools. Inform RPS that you will be using account # 524083. Canadians please use account #0249952. Ship your tools with your name, return address (Do not use a P.O. Box) and telephone number to:

Klein Tools, Inc
Attn: Quality Control
7200 McCormick Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60076

2) For additional information call the Klein Recall hotline which is available 24 hours a day. 1-800-757-2604

Klein Tools is not aware of any failures, in the field, of its insulated tools but in the interest of user safety has introduced this wide range recall and retrofit program.

Thank you very much for your help and patience in this important matter.

INSULATED TOOL LIST

WARNING: Always inspect your tools before each use.

WARNING: Do not use a Klein insulated tool if the orange exterior coating is cut, cracked, punctured, distorted or is otherwise damaged in any manner.

WARNING: If you have any reason to suspect that the insulated coating could have been compromised (e.g. subjected to a substantial impact) have it dielectrically retested to ASTM standards.

WARNING: Because moisture, films, or other surface contaminants are conductive, Klein insulated tools must be kept clean, dry and free of any surface contaminants.

WARNING: Whenever possible, always de-energize lines and equipment prior to working on or around them. Klein insulated tools are designed only to reduce the chance of injury where the tool may make contact with an energized source.

WARNING: Only use tools that are marked with the official international 1000-volt rating symbol( 1000V) if there is any chance that the tools will make contact with an energized source.

April 22, 1998

Visit the Klein Tools web site for more information

Insulated Tool Recall - End User Information