Task Force 5-ton electric log splitters are being recalled. These are a silver and black style and will be available exclusively at Lowe's stores nationwide from January 2008 through March 2011 for approximately $300. There seems to be some laceration and amputation issues. Electric log splitters have a hydraulic arm that slides under the handle used to move the machine during use. If you keep your hands on the handles while operating the splitter, the moving hydraulic arm could cause severe cuts or even amputation. Two people have been injured so far, including an 18-year-old man who had his fingertip amputated and a 60-year-old man who suffered a lacerated finger. Both accidents occurred when operators placed their hands on the handle while working on the diverter.
This is where it gets interesting. The recall directs all consumers to stop using the log splitter, but not because anything can be fixed . Instead, they will "contact Changzhou Globe Tool Group Co. Ltd. to obtain a free set of warning labels, including placement instructions."
This has got to be one of the weirdest recalls we've ever seen. In effect, they're saying the tool didn't malfunction and they took responsibility by properly labeling the splitter's safety precautions. So don't send a tool, just contact them and get a free sticker. Also, the recall itself doesn't do much to explain the problem or give specific (detailed) instructions for using the tool safely… no, you'll need to wait for the stickers to show up for that. It reveals the system's failure to use existing mechanisms to actually provide good and useful information to consumers. The specific recall details are as follows:
- Product Name: Task Force 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
- Unit: about 20,000
- Manufacturer: Changzhou Global Tools Group Co., Ltd., China
- DANGER: Electric log splitters have a hydraulic arm that slides under the handle used to move the machine during use. The moving hydraulic arm presents a risk of laceration or amputation to anyone with their hand on the handle while the separator is in operation.
- Incidents/Injuries: Two injuries were reported, including an 18-year-old man with a fingertip amputation and a 60-year-old man with a finger laceration. Two people were injured after putting their hands on the handle while the shunt was running.
- Description: Log splitter in silver and black, electric 5 ton model. The log splitter is a Task Force model 26083, item #241483. The item number and model number are printed on the power switch label on the back of the log splitter. "Task Force" is stamped on the side rail of the log splitter.
- Exclusively available at: Lowe's stores nationwide from January 2008 to March 2011 for approximately $300.
- Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled log splitters and contact Changzhou Universal Tools Group Co., Ltd. to obtain a free set of warning labels, including placement instructions.
- CONSUMER CONTACT: For more information, please call toll-free at (866) 456-8934, Monday through Saturday, 9am-5pm ET or email [email protected]
about the author
Clint De Boer
chief editor
When he's not playing with the latest power tool, Clint DeBoer enjoys life as a husband, father, and avid reader—especially the Bible. He loves Jesus, has a degree in recording engineering, and has been involved in multimedia and/or online publishing in one form or another since 1992.
Clint's career spans nearly the entire spectrum of audio and video production. After graduating top of his class with an Associate Degree in Recording Engineering, he began working in 1994 at the renowned Soundelux Studios, one of the largest post-production houses specializing in feature film and television audio. Clint has worked on countless feature films, honing his skills as a dialogue editor, foley editor and sound designer. Years later, he moved into the ever-expanding field of video editing as a senior AVID video editor for three years.
Clint DeBoer has worked extensively with clients including Universal Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Paramount Home Entertainment, NASA, Universal Studios, Planet Hollywood, SEGA, NASCAR, as well as film and video editing, color correction and digital video and MPEG compression. He also holds several THX certifications (Technician I and II, THX Video) and is ISF Level II certified.
After founding the publishing company CD Media, Inc. in 1996, he went on to help launch or grow several successful online publications, including Audioholics (where he was editor-in-chief for 12 years), Audiogurus, and AV Gadgets. In 2008, Clint founded Pro Tool Reviews, followed by OPE Reviews in 2017 with a focus on landscape and outdoor power equipment. He also leads the Pro Tool Innovation Awards, an annual awards program that recognizes innovative tools and accessories across industries.
The success of what is now the industry's largest power tool review is a credit to God and his wonderful staff, and Clint DeBoer hopes to see the company continue to grow as it rapidly expands its reach. Pro Tool Reviews rigorously reviews hundreds of hand tools, power tools, and accessories each year to help users stay abreast of the best and newest products in the industry. Targeting everyone from construction industry professionals and tradespeople to serious DIYers, Pro Tool Reviews helps tool consumers shop better, work smarter, and learn which tools and products can help them stay ahead of their game .