CPSC recalls 2.44 million magnets used in school science classes

At least 2.44 million magnets sold by two companies for use in school science classes have been recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission because surface paint on the magnets contains high levels of lead. Exposure to lead can cause developmental and learning disorders.

The largest recall with 2.35 million items was for magnets sold by United Scientific of Waukegan, Illinois and sold from October 1996 to September 2007 by independent distributors nationwide. In addition, 87,000 magnets were recalled that were sold nationwide by American Scientific of Columbus, Ohio from October 2006 through February 2008.

The magnets vary in size, shape and color. Some are in the traditional horseshoe shape while others are bars, rings, cylinders or discs. Photos of all the different types can be seen in the recall notices for the United Scientific and American Scientific magnets on the CPSC's Web site. Only painted magnets are affected by the recall.

Consumers should stop using the recalled magnets immediately and contact the companies to receive a free replacement magnet. Contact United Scientific toll-free at (888) 284-8570 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or email the firm at consumeraffairs@unitedsci.com. Contact American Scientific toll-free at (866) 518-1665 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, e-mail the firm at recall@american-scientific.com or visit its Web site at www.american-scientific.com.

Comments

[Mark R Bailey]

Just curious as to where the the magnets were made? China?

Mark