CPSC Recall in 1981: Shock Hazard Results In Recall Of Radio Shack Kits For Electrical Test Meters

Updated on January 18, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 1981.

Data Source: CPSC.
Recall Number: 81-007
Date: February 01, 1981
Product Name: Lead kits for electrical test meters
Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 2) -- More than 150,000 lead kits for electrical test meters are being recalled by Radio Shack, of Fort Worth, Texas, because they may pose a shock hazard to consumers. The recall is being conducted voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Radio Shack is a division of the Tandy Corporation. Each kit consists of 11 separate pieces, including two probes which are plugged into lead wire tips and used to test electrical current. Each probe is designed in such a way that metal remains exposed even when it is fully inserted into the lead wire tips, thus posing a potential shock hazard to users. One consumer has reported receiving a shock from the product. The kits were manufactured from 1971 through June, 1980, and were sold nationwide in Radio Shack retail stores for $4.99 each. They can be identified by catalog number 270-332 which appears on the package. Consumers should return their kits to the nearest Radio Shack store for a full refund. For information on store locations, consumers should consult their local telephone directories or write to Radio Shack, One Tandy Center, Floor 1800, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102. Consumers wishing to verify the model number should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.

Hazard Description:

More than 150,000 lead kits for electrical test meters are being recalled by Radio Shack, of Fort Worth, Texas, because they may pose a shock hazard to consumers.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Replace

Units: Approximately 150,000
Incidents:

One consumer has reported receiving a shock from the product.

Sold At:

The kits were manufactured from 1971 through June, 1980, and were sold nationwide in Radio Shack retail stores for $4.99 each. 

Manufactured In: