L. Powell Company, Inc. Begins Repair Program For Children's Tubular Metal Bunk Beds

March 1, 1994 Release # 94-039 PRODUCT: Approximately 23,400 distinctive C-shaped tubular metal frame children's bunk beds distributed to stores nationwide by the L. Powell Company, Inc. from June 1992 through March 31, 1993. The beds are models 440 (red), 446 (white), 447 (blue), and 448 (black). They use a twin-size mattress on the top and a full-size mattress on the bottom. They have C-shaped headboard and footboard frames, partial guard rails on both sides of the upper bunk, and a middle leg on the side rail of the bottom bunk. Powell's other beds are not affected. PROBLEM: These "C" beds may unexpectedly collapse. Bed occupants could be injured by the falling upper bunk. CPSC is investigating the collapse of similar beds imported by others. WHAT TO DO: Stop using the bed or place both bunks on the floor immediately; inspect all eight mattress support corners; then call Powell at (310) 204-2224, weekdays between 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Eastern time for a free corner kit designed to reinforce the bed and prevent collapse. WASHINGTON, DC -- The L. Powell Company Inc., Culver City, CA, in cooperation with CPSC, is voluntarily providing a free corner kit to reinforce certain distinctive C-shaped children's tubular metal bunk beds imported and distributed by the company. According to Powell, the upper bunk on these beds could fall suddenly --usually after squeaking or creaking that consumers may not recognize as warning sounds -- causing the bunk bed to collapse. Powell's action responds to a CPSC bunk bed industry safety alert. The Powell Company has received 36 reports of "C" beds collapsing, including five reports of injury. Powell imported and distributed about 23,400 "C" beds to stores from June 1992 through March 31, 1993. A large percentage of the beds were sold by Pace Membership Warehouse, Inc. and Costco Wholesale. Powell is one of the largest distributors of children's tubular metal bunk beds. This action is being taken due to the firm's strong commitment