CPSC, Fluke Corp. Announce Recall of Digital Multimeters
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall (2002-08-19). Hazards: burn, electric shock. About 40,000 units in the US.
| Agency | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission |
|---|---|
| Recall number | 02231 |
| Published | 2002-08-19 |
| Last updated | 2025-10-08 |
| Product category | Electrical Testers |
| Products | Fluke Digital Multimeters |
| Firm named in the title | Fluke Corp. |
| Firms | Fluke Corp., of Everett, Wash. (manufacturer) |
| Units (US) | 40,000 |
| Hazard classes | burn, electric shock |
| Remedy classes | repair, stop use |
| Sold | Home and hardware stores and industrial distributors nationwide sold these testers, from January 2001 through October 2001, for between $170 and $215. |
Description
Multimeters are used to measure voltage, resistance and current. The recalled Fluke digital multimeters measure up to 1,000 volts alternating current (VAC) and direct current (VDC). "Fluke" and "175", "177" or "179" are written on the front of the unit. The tester body is yellow and black, and measures about 7.25 inches long by 3.5 inches wide. Recalled units have a serial number below 79000000. The serial number is written on the back of the instrument, under the hinged stand.
Hazard
The recalled units can take longer than normal, up to 18 seconds, to display readings of AC voltages above 500 volts. Users can misinterpret the delayed reading to mean that high voltage is not present. If high voltage is present, users could be exposed to a risk of shock, electrocution, and thermal burns.
Remedy
Consumers should stop using these testers immediately and contact Fluke for information on returning the recalled unit for a free repair.
Incidents and injuries
Fluke has received four reports from Canada and Australia, in which users experienced a delayed response, while measuring high voltage, though no injuries were reported.
Machine access
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Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice (US Government work). Not affiliated with or endorsed by CPSC. Structured by Data Foundry (product-recall-structuring@2); last changed 2026-09-28. Always confirm with the agency notice.