Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers recall 03-117

Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers

CPSC Warns Consumers to Replace Star ME-1 Dry Fire Sprinklers Made by Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee -- Administrative Lawsuit Settled, Firm Financially Unable to Conduct Recall --

CPSC published a recall notice for Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers from Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee, Inc. (SCM), formerly known as Star Sprinkler Corporation on April 25, 2003. CPSC identifies this hazard: These sprinklers are defective and are likely to fail to operate in a fire, thereby exposing consumers to the risk of death or serious injury. The official remedy states: Because SCM is no longer in operation and has no assets, it is unable to conduct a recall, so no free replacement or refund is available for its sprinklers. Nevertheless, SCM urges building owners to follow CPSC guidance by inspecting the sprinkler systems in their buildings and replacing any Star ME-1 fire sprinklers manufactured from 1983 through 1995.

What to check on the product label

Compare every letter, number, space, and suffix. A similar-looking product may not be included in this recall.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Why it was recalled

These sprinklers are defective and are likely to fail to operate in a fire, thereby exposing consumers to the risk of death or serious injury.

Incidents and injuries

CPSC has received reports of two failures involving Star ME-1 dry sprinklers. One report involved a 1976 sprinkler, and the other, sprinklers installed in 1990.

Official remedy

Because SCM is no longer in operation and has no assets, it is unable to conduct a recall, so no free replacement or refund is available for its sprinklers. Nevertheless, SCM urges building owners to follow CPSC guidance by inspecting the sprinkler systems in their buildings and replacing any Star ME-1 fire sprinklers manufactured from 1983 through 1995.

Product and sales details

Brand: Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee, Inc. (SCM), formerly known as Star Sprinkler Corporation
Manufacturer: Sprinkler Corporation of Milwaukee, Inc. (SCM), formerly known as Star Sprinkler Corporation
Recall number: 03-117
Units: Approximately 400,000
Manufactured in: United Stateso
Sold at / sales period: These sprinklers were typically installed in areas of buildings where the sprinklers or water supply pipes may be subject to freezing. Examples of such areas include unheated attics, freezers and coolers, porches and parking garages. The types of facilities in which the sprinklers were installed include nursing homes, convalescent and long-term care facilities, supermarkets and other stores, warehouses, hospitals, and office buildings.