CPSC Recall in 1998: Bi-fold Doors Repair by Schweiss Distributing

PRODUCT: Bi-fold Doors - Schweiss Distributing Co., of Fairfax, Minn., is recalling to repair approximately 500 bottom-operated, bi-fold doors, manufactured by a predecessor company. These very large doors, used for barns, aircraft hangars and commercial buildings, roll up from the bottom to open and fold the door in half as it raises. These doors can be up to 150 feet wide. Writing on the doors includes, "Schweiss Chicken Pluckers." Home improvement stores, lumber yards and custom builders nationwide sold these bi-fold doors from January 1984 to August 1993 for between $800 and $4,500, depending on the size of the door. These bi-fold doors were not manufactured or designed by Schweiss Distributing Co. PROBLEM: The doors lack a safety shield which could allow door operators and bystanders to become entrapped in moving door parts, such as the drive drums and cables, causing serious injuries such as amputations and fractures. INJURIES: CPSC and Schweiss are aware of three injuries involving these doors. All the injuries involved children having fingers amputated, with one child having six fingers amputated and both arms broken. WHAT TO DO: Schweiss is offering a free safety shield to help prevent further injuries. To receive a shield, consumers should immediately call Schweiss Distributing Co. at (800) 746-8273 any time. Until the safety shield is installed, consumers should use extreme caution when operating the doors.

The doors lack a safety shield which could allow door operators and bystanders to become entrapped in moving door parts, such as the drive drums and cables, causing serious injuries such as amputations and fractures.

Repair

CPSC and Schweiss are aware of three injuries involving these doors. All the injuries involved children having fingers amputated, with one child having six fingers amputated and both arms broken.

Home improvement stores, lumber yards and custom builders nationwide sold these bi-fold doors from January 1984 to August 1993 for between $800 and $4,500, depending on the size of the door.