Safety Alert
Schneider Electric Recalls Square D Brand General Duty Safety Switches
Schneider electric has recalled their Square D Brand General Duty 30 & 60A, 120/240 Volt 2-phase and 3-phase NEMA 3R Safety Switches. The power can stay on even when the switch is in the “OFF” position. This poses a serious shock or electrocution hazard. The recalled switches were manufactured from January 1, 2014 through January 18, 2018. See photo below for an example switch affected by the Safety Alert.
The switches subject to recall have the following catalog numbers:
CD321NRB D211NRB D221NRB D221NRBUP D321NRBCP DU221RB DU221RBUP
DU222RBUP DU321RBUP DU322RB DU322RBUP D211NRBCP D221NRBCP D321NRB
D321NRBUP DU222RB DU321RB DU321RBCP DU322RBCP
The catalog number may be visible as a sticker on the outside of the switch; however, information regarding the date of manufacture is located inside the switch enclosure and cannot be accessed with the switch in operation. Accessing the switch and verifying whether an installed safety switch is subject to this recall is required to be performed by an authorized Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW1 or higher).
There is a possibility that some of these switches may be in service at the Lab. If installed, it is likely they may be used in research applications as the affected switches are rated for General Duty versus Heavy Duty. Contact your Electrical Safety Officer or Advocate if you suspect that you may have one of the switches in service, so that arrangements can be made to schedule a Qualified Electrical Worker to inspect the installed unit and verify the switch for proper operation.
A list of LBNL Electrical Safety Officers and Electrical Safety Advocates for each division can be found at the following link: http://electricalsafety.lbl.gov/contact-us/