Sherwin-Williams recalls fabric-protector spray after man sickened

Sherwin-Williams today recalled 75,000 aerosol cans of Krylon fabric protector here and another 67,806 in Canada after a consumer who used the product was hospitalized with breathing difficulties. The product, Krylon “Outdoor Spaces UV Fabric Protector," is intended to repel moisture and prevent outdoor fabrics from fading. But over-exposure to fumes, vapor or spray mist from the product can pose a serious respiratory hazard.

According to the CPSC's recall notice, the part number (2900) is printed above the UPC code (724504029007) on the side of the can. Made in the U.S., it was sold in 11-ounce cans at Wal-Mart, Ace Hardware and other retail stores nationwide, and in Canada, from January 2006 through September 2008 for about $7.

Consumers should stop using the spray and return it to the store where purchased for a full refund. More information can be obtained by calling Sherwin-Williams toll-free at (888) 304-3769 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or by visiting the firm's Web sites at www.sherwin-williams.com or www.krylon.com.

This isn't the first problem with hazardous fumes from waterproofing sprays.  Last year, the New York Times reported that the CPSC was "unnecessarily leaving the American public at risk through its failure to properly investigate a long-running series of lung injuries tied to widely available waterproofing sprays." The Times said that thousands of consumers likely suffered respiratory problems after using certain waterproofing sprays.

In 2005, the CPSC recalled 300,000 cans of another waterproofing spray called Stand 'n Seal "Spray-On" Grout Sealer after getting 88 reports of consumers experiencing respiratory problems, 13 of them serious enough to require hospitalization. In a follow-up report, the New York Times said that that sealant remained on store shelves long after the recall. 

We think you should use extreme caution when using any waterproofing spray. Apply only outdoors, spray in the same direction as the wind, avoid skin contact, and report any ill effects to the CPSC, the manufacturer, and to us.