CPSC, Ryobi And Sears Announce Table Saw Switch Recall For Repair

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Ryobi America Corporation of Anderson, S.C., is announcing a recall to repair approximately 150,000 10-inch table saws. On some saws, the power switch lock-off mechanism may not work, and as a result, children and others who should not have access to the saw could be injured by the moving blade.

Ryobi has not received reports of any injuries associated with this problem.

All table saws which may have this problem have large rectangular ON/OFF buttons.

In order to turn the saw on, a switch lock-off key (referred to in the owner's manual as a key plate) must be in place around the ON button. In some cases, if the OFF button is not completely depressed, consumers may be able to restart the table saw without the key. As a result, consumers could be accidentally cut or injured.

The saws, weighing 75 pounds each, have a 10-inch blade and a sliding miter table.

The table saws were sold under the brand names and model numbers "Ryobi BT3000" and "Sears Craftsman Model 315.22185."

Various home centers and hardware stores sold the Ryobi saws nationwide starting in May 1991. Sears stores sold the Craftsman saws nationwide starting in July 1994. Both table saws sold for approximately $400 to $600 each.

The table saws have a serial number located on a data plate on the right side of the saw. Consumers who own Ryobi BT3000 10-Inch Table Saws with serial numbers ending in four digits lower than 9608 or Sears Craftsman Model 315.22185 10-Inch Table Saws should call (800) 867-9624 immediately with the serial number of their saw. Replacement switches will be installed without charge. Consumers are also encouraged to confirm full release of the ON button when removing their "lock-off key" and to always remove the plug from its power source when the table saw is not in use.