What was recalled
In early April of 2020, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving commercial-grade electrical receptacles manufactured by Pass & Seymour, a brand under the Legrand umbrella. This action was taken to address a specific manufacturing defect that could compromise the safety of buildings and facilities where these outlets are installed. The recall is not limited to a single type of outlet but encompasses a wide array of tamper-resistant duplex electrical receptacles. These devices are designed to prevent children from inserting foreign objects into the slots, a standard safety feature in modern commercial construction, but in this specific case, the internal engineering failed to meet safety standards.
The affected products are identified by their model numbers, which consumers and facility managers must check carefully against the inventory. The recall covers numerous models, including but not limited to TR15GRY, TR20W, TR26342I, TR26352RNICC6, TR5352I, TR15I, TR20WCC8, TR26342LA, TR26352RW, TR5352LA, TR15LA, TR26242BK, TR26342W, TR26352W, TR5352W, TR15W, TR26252, TR26352, TR26352WCC8, WR20TR, TR20, TR26252BK, TR26352BK, TR5252, WR20TRGRY, TR20BK, TR26252GRYCC8, TR26352BKCC8, TR5252GRY, WR20TRGRYCC8, TR20CC8, TR26252I, TR26352GRY, TR5252I, WR20TRI, TR20GRY, TR26252LACC8, TR26352GRYCC8, TR5252LA, WR20TRLA, TR20I, TR26252W, TR26352I, TR5252W, WR20TRW, TR20ICC8, TR26252WCC8, TR26352LACC8, TR5352, WR20TRW, TR20LA, TR26342BK, TR26352RBK, TR5352BK, WR20TRWCC8, TR20LACC8, TR26342GRY, TR26352GCC6, and TR5352GRY. To confirm if a specific unit is part of this recall, you should look for the word "Legrand" printed on the back of the receptacle itself.
Identifying the correct units also requires checking the manufacturing date codes, as the defect is tied to specific production runs. On the outside of the product cartons, look for date codes such as 43U, 44U, 45U, 46U, 47U, 48U, 49U, 50U, 51U, 52U, 53U, 01V, or 02V. Additionally, some devices may have these codes hot-stamped directly onto the back of the device, appearing as "MU", "NU", "PU", or "AV". These items were sold through commercial electrical supply distributors and building material dealers across the United States and in Canada. If you are a facility manager, contractor, or homeowner who purchased these specific commercial-grade outlets during this timeframe, it is critical to verify your stock against these model numbers and date codes immediately.
The hazard, explained
At first glance, the risk associated with these Pass & Seymour commercial-grade electrical receptacles may seem abstract, but the physical mechanism behind it is surprisingly straightforward and dangerous. The core issue stems from a specific manufacturing error that alters the internal geometry of the socket. In a properly functioning electrical outlet, the metal contacts inside are designed to grip the blades of a plug firmly and evenly. This tight, uniform contact ensures that electricity flows smoothly with minimal resistance.
However, in the recalled units, this precision was compromised. Because of the error, the internal contacts may not align correctly with standard plug blades. Instead of sliding in easily and seating securely, the plug may meet unexpected resistance. This forces users to exert excessive physical pressure—essentially forcing the plug into the receptacle—to get it to fit or stay in place. It is this act of forcing that triggers the chain of events leading to potential harm.
When you force a plug into an outlet where the internal connections are misaligned or loose, you create what engineers call a "high-resistance connection." Normally, electricity flows through metal with very little friction. But when contact points are sparse or pressurized unnaturally by force, electrical energy is converted into heat at the point of contact. Think of it like rubbing your hands together quickly; the friction generates warmth. In an electrical context, this friction is intense and localized.
As current flows through these stressed, imperfect connections, the temperature can rise rapidly and significantly beyond safe operating levels. This isn't just a minor warmth; it is enough to melt plastic components, discolor metal, and ignite surrounding materials. The primary danger here is not an immediate electrical shock to your body, but rather the intense heat generated at the outlet itself. If you are holding the plug or touching the faceplate of the receptacle while this overheating occurs, you risk sustaining a serious burn injury.
This type of failure is particularly insidious because it often happens silently. There may be no spark, no popping sound, and no immediate visible sign that something is wrong until the plastic begins to deform or smoke appears. In commercial settings where these outlets are used heavily, the repeated stress of plugging and unplugging devices can accelerate this degradation. The combination of a manufacturing defect and human necessity (needing power for equipment) creates a perfect storm for thermal injury. Understanding this physical process highlights why simply "being careful" isn't enough; the outlet itself is fundamentally unsafe in its current state, regardless of how gently you handle it.
Who is most at risk
When discussing electrical safety, it is easy to assume that any adult can manage the risks associated with household wiring. However, this recall highlights a specific vulnerability rooted in the physical design of the product and the nature of the manufacturing error. The Pass & Seymour receptacles in question are commercial-grade tamper-resistant duplex units. While "commercial-grade" suggests durability and high performance for heavy-duty environments like offices, hotels, or industrial settings, it does not eliminate the potential for user error when installation or usage guidelines are slightly misunderstood. The core of the risk here is not just that a fire could start, but that the mechanism to prevent it—the tamper-resistant shutters—might interact with a plug in an unintended way due to the defect.
The primary group at immediate physical risk includes anyone who regularly plugs and unplugs devices into these specific outlets. This includes office workers, hotel guests, maintenance staff, or homeowners who have installed these units in their properties. The hazard arises because a manufacturing error may cause consumers to incorrectly force the plug into the receptacle. For individuals who are less familiar with electrical standards, such as elderly users or those with limited dexterity, the resistance they feel might be misinterpreted as a need for greater force rather than a sign that something is wrong. Pushing harder against a faulty connection increases friction and electrical resistance, which directly leads to overheating.
Children present a particularly concerning demographic in this scenario. Tamper-resistant receptacles are designed with internal shutters that prevent foreign objects from entering the slots, a crucial safety feature for preventing electrocution in young children. However, if the defect causes the plug blades to overheat because they were forced in incorrectly, the danger shifts from electrical shock to thermal burns. A child who touches the faceplate of a receptacle that has overheated due to a plugged-in device could suffer severe burns. Furthermore, if a child attempts to investigate the outlet or remove a cord that is stuck or difficult to pull due to the defect, they may inadvertently exacerbate the connection issue, leading to further heat generation.
Additionally, people living in multi-unit dwellings or shared workspaces are at risk because the consequences of this defect extend beyond personal injury. An overheating receptacle can ignite surrounding materials, such as drywall, insulation, or nearby furniture. In these crowded environments, a fire started by one faulty unit can spread rapidly, endangering not just the user but neighbors and first responders. Therefore, while the direct burn risk is personal, the broader community risk includes anyone in close proximity to an affected installation who relies on safe electrical infrastructure for their daily survival and safety.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether a specific electrical receptacle is part of this recall requires a careful check of several physical details on both the product itself and its original packaging. Because Pass & Seymour manufactures a wide variety of commercial-grade tamper-resistant duplex electrical receptacles, relying solely on the brand name is not enough to confirm safety. You must verify the model number, the manufacturing date codes, and the specific color or finish of the unit to determine if it falls within the affected batch.
First, look for the brand identification. The back of the actual receptacle device should clearly have "Legrand" printed on it. This confirms you are dealing with the correct manufacturer, but it does not yet confirm the recall status. Next, examine the model number, which is the most critical piece of information. If you still have the individual product boxes or the shipping cartons where the items were stored, the model numbers are printed directly on the labels attached to these containers. You will need to compare these codes against the extensive list provided in the official recall notice. The affected models include a wide range of designations such as TR15GRY, TR20W, TR26342I, TR5352I, and many others ending in various suffixes like LA, WCC8, or GRC6. If you cannot find the box, check the metal yoke or the face of the installed receptacle for any stamped or printed model identifiers.
Equally important is checking the manufacturing date codes, as only units produced within specific timeframes are included in this recall. On the outside of the original carton, look for a code consisting of two digits followed by the letter "U" (ranging from 43U through 53U) or two digits followed by the letter "V" (specifically 01V and 02V). These codes indicate the week and year of manufacture. If the original packaging is no longer available, you may find manufacturing information hot-stamped directly onto the back of the device itself. In this case, look for the letters "MU," "NU," "PU," or "AV." Any receptacle bearing these specific hot-stamped codes should be treated with caution and verified against the recall list.
When inspecting your units, note that the recalled items are commercial-grade tamper-resistant duplex receptacles available in various colors, including white (W), ivory (I), gray (GRY), black (BK), bronze (BR), and others. The "tamper-resistant" feature is standard for these commercial models, meaning the slots have internal shutters to prevent children from inserting objects, but this safety feature does not negate the burn hazard associated with the manufacturing error in the affected batches. If your installed receptacle matches any of the listed model numbers and bears one of the specified date codes or hot-stamped letters, it is part of this recall.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled Pass & Seymour commercial-grade tamper-resistant duplex electrical receptacles, your immediate safety is the top priority. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a specific manufacturing error that can cause plug blades to overheat, creating a serious burn risk. Because this hazard is linked to how the internal components are constructed rather than just external wear and tear, simply being careful while using the device does not eliminate the danger. Therefore, you must take decisive action right away. Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself by opening the receptacle or modifying the wiring; these devices are complex electrical components, and unauthorized tampering can create additional hazards, including shock or fire risks that are far more dangerous than the original defect. Here is exactly what you need to do, in order: 1. **Stop using the product immediately.** Unplug any cords inserted into the affected receptacles and cease using the outlet entirely. Even if the device appears to function normally and has not overheated in your experience, the internal manufacturing error remains present. The risk is latent, meaning it could trigger unexpectedly under load. Treat the unit as if it were already hot or damaged until proven otherwise by a professional. 2. **Verify that your unit is part of this specific recall.** Before contacting anyone, confirm that your device matches the criteria. Check the labels on the original product boxes or cartons for the model numbers listed in the official notice (such as TR15GRY, TR20W, TR26342I, etc.). Additionally, look at the back of the receptacle itself; it should be branded with "Legrand." Check the outside of the carton for manufacturing date codes like 43U through 53U or 01V and 02V, or look for hot-stamped codes on the device such as "MU," "NU," "PU," or "AV." If your model number or date code does not appear in these lists, your unit is likely safe and unaffected. 3. **Contact Pass & Seymour to initiate the remedy.** Once you have confirmed your product is included, reach out to the manufacturer to arrange for a free replacement, a full refund, or a refund in the form of a credit. You can do this by calling their toll-free number at 833-552-0388. They are available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may visit www.legrand.us, navigate to the "Pass & Seymour" brand menu, and click on "Product Recall" under the "HELP" section at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions and support documentation. 4. **Follow the return or replacement instructions provided.** The company will guide you through the process of sending back the defective unit or arranging for a new one to be shipped to you. Keep any confirmation numbers or reference IDs they provide until the process is complete. This ensures you receive your promised remedy and helps them track the scope of the recall effectively. 5. **Dispose of or secure the old unit properly.** Once you have received your replacement, do not reinstall the recalled receptacle in any location where people could accidentally use it. If instructed by Pass & Seymour to return it, follow their packaging guidelines. If you are discarding it, ensure it is done in a way that prevents it from being reused or causing confusion for future occupants of the building.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you discover that one of the Pass & Seymour commercial-grade electrical receptacles in your possession matches the recalled model numbers, date codes, or markings described earlier, the first and most important step is to stop using the product immediately. While this might feel like an inconvenience, especially if the installation was recent, your safety takes precedence over temporary utility. The good news is that Legrand, the manufacturer behind the Pass & Seymour brand, has established a straightforward and generous remedy for those affected by this recall. They are not asking you to dispose of the hazardous unit at your own expense or navigate a complex warranty claim process. Instead, they are offering a complete resolution package designed to remove the risk entirely.
You have three distinct options for resolving this issue, all provided at no cost to you. First, you can request a free replacement receptacle. This is often the most convenient choice if you need the outlet back in service quickly and want to maintain the same aesthetic or functional specifications of your original installation. Second, you may choose to receive a full refund for the purchase price of the recalled item. This option is ideal if you no longer need that specific outlet, wish to switch to a different brand or model entirely, or prefer to recoup your initial investment. Third, the company offers a refund in the form of credit. This might be beneficial if you plan to purchase other electrical supplies or accessories from Legrand in the future, allowing you to offset those costs without handling cash transactions.
To initiate any of these remedies, you must contact Pass & Seymour directly through their dedicated recall support channels. You can reach them by calling their toll-free number at 833-552-0388. It is helpful to know that their customer service representatives are available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer digital communication or wish to review the terms of the recall before calling, you can visit the firm’s website at www.legrand.us. Once there, navigate to the “Brands” menu and select “Pass & Seymour.” From the Pass & Seymour page, scroll to the bottom of the page and look for the “HELP” section. Click on “Product Recall” to find detailed instructions and potentially fill out any necessary online forms.
When you contact them, have your product information ready. Specifically, locate the model number printed on the labels of the individual product boxes or cartons, as well as the manufacturing date codes found on the outside of the carton (such as 43U through 53U, or 01V and 02V) or hot-stamped on the back of the device itself (such as "MU", "NU", "PU", or "AV"). Having these details on hand will speed up the process significantly, ensuring that the representative can verify your item is part of this specific recall batch and promptly process your chosen remedy. Remember, there is no deadline mentioned in the official notice for how long you have to claim these remedies, but acting sooner rather than later is always the wisest approach when dealing with electrical safety hazards.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to overlook a small electrical outlet, especially in a busy home or office environment where functionality often takes precedence over meticulous inspection. However, ignoring this specific recall carries tangible risks that extend well beyond the immediate inconvenience of replacing a fixture. The core issue here is not a simple mechanical failure, but a subtle manufacturing defect that compromises the fundamental safety interface between your plug and the wall. When you continue to use these recalled Pass & Seymour receptacles, you are essentially allowing a hidden flaw to remain active in your daily power supply.
The primary danger stems from the way plugs interact with the internal mechanism of the outlet. Due to the manufacturing error described by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the receptacle may not grip the plug blades correctly. This can lead consumers to instinctively force the plug in further to get a connection, a common reaction when resistance is felt. Forcing the plug does not fix the underlying issue; instead, it exacerbates the problem by creating poor electrical contact. When electricity flows through a loose or improperly seated connection, it encounters higher resistance. In electrical terms, resistance generates heat. Unlike a standard outlet that dissipates this energy safely, these defective units can cause the metal blades of your plug to overheat significantly.
This overheating is not merely a theoretical concern; it presents a direct burn hazard to anyone touching the device or its attached cord. If you are plugging in appliances, lamps, or chargers that draw substantial power, the heat buildup can become intense enough to cause thermal burns upon contact with the face of the outlet or the plug itself. Furthermore, sustained overheating can degrade the plastic housing of both the receptacle and your plug over time, potentially leading to melting, scorching, or in severe cases, igniting nearby combustible materials. While the agency report indicates that no incidents have been reported to date, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the risk is zero—it simply means that bad luck has not yet struck anyone in a way that was officially recorded.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, ignoring this recall introduces long-term reliability issues. An outlet that requires force to use is an outlet that is failing. Continued use can lead to arcing within the wall box, which may damage the wiring behind your walls or trip circuit breakers frequently. You are also risking the lifespan of your own expensive electronics and appliances. A poor connection can send erratic voltage spikes to your devices, potentially shortening their life or causing sudden malfunctions. By waiting to address this, you are gambling with both your personal safety and the integrity of your home’s electrical system for no reason.
- Direct Physical Harm: The risk of thermal burns from overheated plug blades or outlet surfaces increases with every use.
- Fire Potential: Persistent arcing and heat buildup can damage insulation and ignite surrounding materials, though this is a lower-probability but high-consequence outcome.
- Equipment Damage: Unstable power delivery due to poor contact can harm the devices plugged into these outlets.
The remedy offered by Legrand is straightforward and free, designed precisely to prevent these outcomes. There is no benefit to delaying this replacement. The cost of waiting is entirely unnecessary risk, whereas the action required is a simple call or website visit to secure a safe, compliant product. Do not let a small oversight become a significant safety event.