United Scientific Recalls School Horseshoe Magnets for Lead Contamination

According to a recent press release issued on Dec 12 by the Consumer Product safety Commission, or CPSC, there has been a recall issued for some horseshoe magnets. The magnets were imported by United Scientific Supplies, Inc.

The magnets are being voluntarily recalled due to excessive levels of lead. This voluntary product recall involves an amount of about 153,000 units of product.

United Scientific Supplies, Inc utilized independent distributors all over the nation to market and distribute these magnets. These products were sold to schools by the independent distributors. Many schools, from elementary to college, utilize this type of magnet for various science projects and scientific studies.

The high levels of lead in the magnets are found to be in the surface paint on the magnets. While no injuries have been reported, these lead-contaminated magnets should immediately be removed from the use of children.

The horseshoe magnets being recalled were made and sold in five different sizes and styles. The sizes and styles are as follows:

SHM020 (two inch horseshoe magnet)

SHM030 (three inch horseshoe magnet)

SHM040 (four inch horseshoe magnet)

SHM050 (five inch horseshoe magnet)

SHM060 (six inch horseshoe magnet)

The horseshoe shaped magnets are painted red. These magnets, sold by independent distributors around the nation, were sold from March 1995 through September 2007. They were priced around $1 each.

Consumers are being asked to immediately discontinue use of these recalled magnets and to contact United Scientific directly for instructions on receiving a replacement product.

Customers can contact United Scientific Supplies, Inc. for further information, including information on returns, at (888) 284-8570 Monday through Friday from 9am through 5pm CT or by emailing the company at consumeraffairs@unitedsci.com.

United Scientific Supplies, Inc. is located in Waukegan, Ill. The recalled magnets were manufactured in India.

For pictures of the recalled magnetic horseshoes, visit the CPSC website.