Leviton Manufacturing Recalls Electrical Connection Devices Due to Shock Hazard

What was recalled

In April of 2020, a significant safety alert was issued regarding a specific line of heavy-duty electrical equipment manufactured by Leviton Manufacturing. This recall centers on 50-ampere, non-NEMA electrical connection devices. To understand the scope, it is helpful to know what these items actually are. They are not standard household outlets you might find in your kitchen or bedroom. Instead, they are industrial-grade connectors, plugs, receptacles, and inlet attachment devices designed to transmit power to large electrical equipment that does not have a permanent, hard-wired connection to a power source. You might encounter these in settings such as construction sites, outdoor events, marine applications, or heavy machinery operations where temporary but high-power connections are necessary.

The primary identifier for these recalled items is the brand name "Leviton," which is clearly printed directly on the devices themselves. However, distinguishing the safe products from the unsafe ones requires careful attention to detail, as the visual appearance of the hardware can be deceiving. The critical factor that determines whether a specific device is part of this recall is the presence or absence of a blue dot. Leviton explicitly stated that only those electrical connectors without a blue dot on both the physical device and its original packaging are included in this safety notice. If you see a blue dot, your device is likely not part of this specific batch of mislabeled units.

The recall encompasses a wide variety of model and catalog numbers, reflecting different configurations of these 50-amp connectors. The affected list includes models such as the 3762C, 3763C, 3764C, 3765C, 3769, 3771, 3775, and 3777. It also extends to the CS series, including CS6360C, CS6361C, CS6364C, CS6364W, CS6365C, CS6365W, CS6369, CS6370, CS6375, CS6377, CS8164C, CS8165C, CS8169, CS8175, CS8264C, CS8265C, CS8269, CS8275, CS8364C, CS8365C, CS8369, and CS837-410-5W1. Additionally, the C series models 6360CR, 6364CR, 6365CR, 6369CR, 6370CR, 6375CR, 7379, 7764C, 7765C, and 7958 are included. Because these parts are used in critical power transmission roles, identifying the exact catalog number is essential for ensuring your safety.

While the official recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does not specify the total number of units sold or the precise geographic regions where they were distributed, it emphasizes that these devices were widely available to consumers and businesses needing high-amperage power solutions. The date codes for the affected items are also crucial for verification. These codes can be found on the back cover of connectors and plugs, on the side housing of receptacles and inlets, or on the label of each box. Affected date codes include various combinations such as 1E19C0, 1I19C0, 1E29C0, 1I29C0, and continuing through sequences like 1F19C0, 1J19C0, up to 1H49C0. If you have one of these devices in your inventory or toolbox, verifying the catalog number against the list above and checking for the absence of the blue dot is the first step in determining if it has been pulled from the market.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a subtle but dangerous error in labeling that can trick even careful users into making a deadly mistake. Leviton manufactures high-power electrical connection devices designed to transmit significant amounts of electricity to equipment that isn’t permanently wired into a wall outlet. These connectors are critical for setting up temporary power for everything from construction sites and outdoor events to medical equipment and industrial machinery. To work safely, these devices rely on precise internal wiring where each metal terminal (the part you plug the wire into) is clearly marked to tell you exactly what it does—whether it carries live current, neutral return, or safety ground.

The problem identified in this recall is that some of these terminals have been mislabeled. In electrical engineering, "mislabeled" means the physical marking on the device does not match its actual internal connection. For example, a terminal marked as the "ground" (the safety path that directs stray electricity safely into the earth to prevent shock) might actually be connected to a "hot" wire that carries full voltage. This discrepancy is invisible to the naked eye. You cannot see the wiring inside the plastic housing; you can only trust what the text says. When those labels are wrong, the device appears normal on the outside, but it is electrically confused on the inside.

Why is this so dangerous? It comes down to how electrical safety systems work. Many pieces of equipment rely on a proper ground connection to trip a circuit breaker if there is a fault, or to keep the metal casing of the device at zero voltage. If the ground terminal is mislabeled as something else, a user might wire it incorrectly, assuming it is safe. Or worse, if the labeling swaps ground and neutral functions, the safety mechanisms built into the equipment may fail. This creates a scenario where electricity can leak onto parts of the device that are supposed to be safe to touch. If a person contacts that part while also touching a grounded surface, their body becomes the path for that electricity to flow to the ground—resulting in an electrical shock.

The severity of this hazard is amplified by the power level involved. These are 50-ampere devices, meaning they handle much higher current than a standard household outlet. A shock from a high-amperage source can cause severe muscle contractions that prevent you from letting go, lead to serious burns, or even stop your heart. The CPSC report confirms this is not just a theoretical risk; there have been four reported incidents involving these specific devices. One consumer suffered an actual electrical shock, and three others experienced minor property damage to their equipment. This damage likely occurred because the miswired connections caused short circuits or overheating within the connected machinery, further illustrating how a simple labeling error can cascade into physical harm and fire hazards.

In general terms, electrical safety depends entirely on accurate communication between the device’s design and the user’s actions. When the labels lie, that communication breaks down. The insulation inside the plug or receptacle may still be intact, but because the path for electricity is wrong, voltage can appear where it shouldn’t. This is why these devices are considered an immediate shock hazard: they create a false sense of security. You might handle them with confidence because they look standard and bear the Leviton brand, but internally, they lack the reliable grounding or correct phase connections needed to keep you safe during normal use or in the event of a power surge.

Who is most at risk

The primary group facing potential danger in this recall consists of homeowners, contractors, and facility managers who rely on Leviton’s 50-ampere electrical connection devices to power heavy-duty equipment. These are not everyday household gadgets found in every kitchen drawer; they are specialized industrial-grade connectors used for high-amperage applications. If you operate or maintain machinery that requires a substantial power source but is not permanently hard-wired into your building’s electrical system, you may have these devices in your inventory. This includes users of large mobile generators, heavy construction equipment, industrial HVAC units, and other high-load appliances that plug into temporary power sources via these specific plugs and receptacles.

While the physical risk of an electrical shock does not discriminate based on age or health status in the same way a fall might, certain individuals are more vulnerable to the consequences of such an incident. People with underlying cardiac conditions, pacemakers, or other heart-related issues face a significantly higher risk when exposed to even brief electrical currents. An electrical shock can disrupt the heart’s natural rhythm, leading to serious injury or worse. Similarly, older adults or those with mobility challenges may be at greater risk if the shock causes them to lose balance or fall while handling heavy equipment. The sudden involuntary muscle contraction caused by electricity can make it difficult to let go of a live wire or device, prolonging exposure and increasing the severity of the injury.

Furthermore, the nature of the hazard—mislabeled terminal markings—creates a specific risk for anyone who installs or modifies these connections themselves. Individuals without formal electrical training are particularly vulnerable because they may not recognize the discrepancy between the label and the actual internal wiring. A contractor or DIY enthusiast might trust the printed text on the device, assuming it accurately reflects the safety standards of the product. When that trust is misplaced due to a manufacturing error, the user is exposed to shock hazards during routine setup or maintenance. This risk extends to anyone who handles these devices regularly in professional settings, where fatigue or haste might lead to overlooked details during installation.

It is also important to note that the recall specifically affects units without a blue dot on the device and packaging. If you have been using these connectors for critical operations, such as powering medical equipment in a temporary clinic, running heavy tools on a construction site, or supplying power to a large RV or trailer, your risk profile is elevated. The potential for minor property damage reported in four incidents suggests that incorrect connections can also harm expensive electronics or machinery, putting business owners and equipment operators at financial and operational risk. Therefore, anyone who depends on the reliable transmission of 50 amps of power through these specific Leviton models should treat this recall with immediate seriousness.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your electrical connection devices are part of this recall requires a careful look at several specific details on the device itself and its packaging. Because these items are industrial-grade components used for transmitting power to equipment that is not hard-wired, they can look similar to many other standard connectors. To ensure you do not mistakenly ignore a hazardous unit or unnecessarily replace a safe one, you must verify the brand, model number, date code, and a specific visual marker.

First, confirm that the device is manufactured by Leviton. The brand name "Leviton" should be clearly printed on the body of the connectors, plugs, receptacles, or inlet attachment devices. These are specifically 50-ampere, non-NEMA electrical connection devices. If the device does not bear the Leviton name, it is not part of this specific recall action.

Next, you need to check for a critical visual indicator: the blue dot. This recall applies only to electrical connectors that do not have a blue dot on both the device and its original packaging. If your Leviton connector has a blue dot, it is not included in this recall. However, if there is no blue dot visible on the unit or the box it came in, you must proceed to verify the model and date codes.

To find the specific model and production information, look at different parts of the device depending on its type. For connectors and plugs, the date code can be found on the back cover. For receptacles and inlet attachment devices, check the side housing. If you still have the original packaging, the label on the box will also display the relevant date codes.

The recall covers a wide range of catalog numbers. You must check if your device matches any of the following models:

• 3762C, 3763C, 3764C, 3765C, 3769, 3771, 3775, 3777
• 6360CR, 6364CR, 6365CR, 6369CR, 6370CR, 6375CR
• 7379, 7764C, 7765C, 7958
• CS6360C, CS6361C, CS6364C, CS6364W, CS6365C, CS6365W, CS6369, CS6370, CS6375, CS6377
• CS8264C, CS8265C, CS8269, CS8275
• CS8464C, CS8465C, CS8469
• CS8164C, CS8165C, CS8169, CS8175
• CS8360C, CS8361C, CS8364C, CS8365C, CS8369, CS837-410-5W1, CS8375

If your device matches one of these catalog numbers and lacks the blue dot, it is likely part of the recall. However, you must also verify the date code to be certain. The affected date codes are extensive and include sequences such as 1E19C0, 1I19C0, 1E29C0, 1I29C0, 1E39C0, 1I39C0, 1E49C0, 1I49C0, 1E59C0, 1I59C0, 1F19C0, 1J19C0, 1F29C0, 1J29C0, 1F39C0, 1J39C0, 1F49C0, 1J49C0, 1G19C0, 1K19C0, 1G29C0, 1K29C0, 1G39C0, 1K39C0, 1G49C0, 1K49C0, 1H19C0, 1K59C0, 1H29C0, 1L19C0, 1H39C0, 1L29C0, and 1H49C0. If you find your model number and date code in these lists, stop using the device immediately.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that one of the Leviton electrical connection devices in your possession matches the details outlined in this recall, the good news is that the manufacturer has established a straightforward and customer-friendly remedy. Leviton Manufacturing has committed to providing a free replacement device for anyone affected by this issue. This approach is designed to be as convenient and cost-free as possible for consumers, ensuring that you do not have to bear the financial burden of correcting a safety defect that was entirely outside your control. The company is taking full responsibility for the mislabeled terminal markings, which is why they are covering all aspects of the resolution process.

To initiate this process, you will need to contact Leviton directly. They have set up specific channels to handle these recall inquiries efficiently. You can reach their support team by calling their toll-free number at 877-978-2032. It is important to note the hours of operation for this service: they are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle your request digitally, you can also visit their official website at www.Leviton.com. Once there, look for and click on the “Recall Information” section to find the specific instructions and forms needed to arrange your free replacement.

When you contact Leviton, whether by phone or online, be prepared to provide specific details about the item you wish to replace. This will help them verify that your product is indeed part of this specific recall batch. You should have your catalog number and date code ready, as these are the primary identifiers used to distinguish recalled units from safe ones. The catalog numbers involved range widely, including models like 3762C, CS6365C, 3763C, and many others listed in the official recall notice. Additionally, the date codes are crucial for final confirmation; these can be found on the back cover of connectors and plugs, on the side housing of receptacles and inlets, or on the label of each box. Remember that this recall specifically applies only to electrical connectors that do not have a blue dot on both the device and its packaging.

The goal of this remedy is to ensure you have a safe, fully functional product without any risk of electrical shock from mislabeled terminals. By replacing the unit for free, Leviton aims to resolve the hazard completely. There is no mention of refunds in the official record, so the primary and likely only form of compensation is the physical replacement of the defective device with a correct one. Please do not attempt to repair the device yourself or return it to the store where you purchased it, as the remedy is specifically managed through Leviton’s dedicated recall process. Following these steps will ensure you receive your free replacement promptly and safely.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a product recall involves an electrical hazard, the stakes are rarely just about convenience or minor inconvenience; they are fundamentally about physical safety and property integrity. In the case of the Leviton 50-ampere electrical connection devices recalled due to mislabeled terminal markings, ignoring the notice is not a passive choice—it is an active decision to continue exposing yourself and your home to potential danger. The core issue here is not that the device will stop working, but that it may work incorrectly in ways that are invisible to the naked eye. Because the terminal markings are wrong, you cannot trust which wire goes where. This creates a scenario where electricity flows through the path of least resistance or, more dangerously, through parts of the device and its connected equipment that were never designed to carry current.

The real-world consequences of continuing to use these mislabeled connectors can range from frustrating malfunctions to severe physical injury. As documented in the recall reports from Leviton, there have already been four specific incidents involving these devices. One report involves a consumer who actually received an electrical shock. This is not a hypothetical risk; it is a confirmed outcome that has occurred when users relied on faulty labels. An electrical shock at 50 amps can be particularly dangerous because higher amperage devices are often used for heavy-duty applications, such as RV hookups, welders, or large industrial tools. These are environments where users may have wet hands, stand on conductive surfaces, or be dealing with bulky, difficult-to-manage cables, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact with live parts.

Beyond direct personal injury, the risk extends to your expensive equipment. Three other reports cited in the recall involved minor property damage to the equipment being powered by these devices. When terminals are crossed due to mislabeling, you can send power to the wrong components within a connected machine or appliance. This can cause short circuits, burn out sensitive electronics, or permanently damage motors and control boards. The cost of repairing a damaged welder, air compressor, or generator often far exceeds the time it takes to simply stop using the recalled device and request a free replacement. Furthermore, electrical faults caused by miswiring are a leading source of residential fires. A small spark inside a connector housing, caused by arcing due to incorrect connections, can ignite surrounding materials if left unchecked.

It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking, "I haven't had a problem yet, so it must be fine." However, electrical hazards are often intermittent or dependent on specific load conditions. A device might work perfectly fine when powering a low-draw tool but fail catastrophically under full load. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with that uncertainty. The remedy provided by Leviton is free and immediate; choosing not to take advantage of it leaves you vulnerable to shocks, equipment destruction, or fire without any potential benefit. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your electrical connections are accurate and safe is worth far more than the effort required to contact the manufacturer and swap out the device.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in Leviton’s high-amperage connectors, the underlying principle—that proper installation and regular maintenance are your best defense against electrical hazards—applies to all home wiring. Electrical connection devices, particularly those used for heavy-duty equipment like dryers, ranges, or RV hookups, carry significant risk if they degrade or are installed incorrectly. To stay safe beyond this specific event, consider adopting a routine of visual inspection and proactive maintenance for your high-power outlets and plugs.

First, make it a habit to look for signs of wear during your regular home checks. High-amp connectors generate heat during use, which can over time loosen connections or melt plastic housings. Look for discoloration, scorch marks, or a burnt smell around the outlet or plug face. If you notice any of these signs, stop using the device immediately and consult a licensed electrician. Do not attempt to fix a scorched connection yourself; the internal wiring may be compromised in ways that are not visible from the outside. Additionally, ensure that plugs fit snugly into outlets. A loose connection creates resistance, which leads to overheating and increases the risk of fire or shock. If a plug wobbles or feels unstable, the outlet’s internal contacts may be worn out and need replacement.

Second, always verify that your high-amperage circuits are properly grounded. Grounding provides a safe path for electricity to travel in case of a fault, preventing it from passing through you or damaging connected equipment. For older homes, it is common to find two-prong outlets that lack a ground pin. If you are using three-prong devices in these outlets, ensure you are using a properly installed grounding adapter with the pigtail wire connected to the outlet’s screw terminal. Never “cheat” the ground by bending the third prong off on itself; this eliminates the safety feature entirely and turns a standard appliance into a potential shock hazard.

Finally, stay informed about product safety without waiting for a crisis. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or subscribe to their RSS feed. Many recalls happen quietly, but they address issues that could affect your family’s safety. When you purchase new electrical devices, register them with the manufacturer immediately. This ensures that if a future defect is discovered, you will be contacted directly rather than finding out about it after an incident occurs. Regularly test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, as these devices are your last line of defense against the consequences of electrical fires or faulty wiring. By combining vigilance with up-to-date knowledge, you create a safer home environment that protects both your property and your peace of mind.