On January 27, 2010, StatSpin, Inc. (IRIS Sample Processing) announced a Class I recall for certain models of StatSpin Express 4 Centrifuges, used to separate blood cells from the liquid portion of blood samples in gel collection tubes.
The recalled centrifuges contain a defective rotor that may break and separate from the motor, striking a safety microswitch so that it fails to shut down the machine. The loose rotor may also strike the lid of the device, causing the lid to open and eject rotor pieces. Ejected rotor pieces can cause serious physical injury to bystanders and can cause exposure to blood-borne infectious micro-organisms.
The recall affects StatSpin Express 4 Centrifuges with model #510 and serial numbers 00100 through 001679. The units were distributed from November 2007 through January 2010.
The company instructs distributors to return the recalled units so that an upgrade kit can be installed. Customers may contact the company at 1-800-782-8774, ext. 6123.