CPSC, Cooper Lighting Warn About 500-Watt Halogen Bulbs
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall (2003-01-30). Hazards: fire. Models: WM500Q, BP500Q. About 600,000 units in the US.
| Agency | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission |
|---|---|
| Recall number | 03077 |
| Published | 2003-01-30 |
| Last updated | 2025-05-19 |
| Product category | Lights & Accessories |
| Products | Regent 500-watt halogen bulbs |
| Firms | Cooper Lighting Inc., of Peachtree City, Ga. (manufacturer) |
| Units (US) | 600,000 |
| Model numbers | WM500Q, BP500Q |
| Hazard classes | fire |
| Sold | Wal-Mart, Lowe's and smaller retail outlets nationwide sold these 500-watt halogen bulbs, between January 1999 and October 2002, for about $4. |
Description
Current packaging for the Regent 500-Watt Halogen Bulb, with model numbers WM500Q and BP500Q, does not contain the recommended warning label of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The label should read, "Warning: Fire Hazard! Do Not Use In Torchieres Or Other Indoor Residential Fixtures." Cooper has asked retailers to add the label to bulb packaging currently on store shelves and new 500-watt halogen bulbs will contain the label.
Hazard
These 500-watt light bulbs generate very high temperatures, compared to incandescent and lower wattage halogen bulbs and can start a fire, if they come in contact with curtains, clothes or other flammable material. These bulbs are intended for use in outdoor work lights and flood lamps. To meet the current Underwriters Laboratories standard, halogen torchiere floor lamps must be equipped with a protective glass or wire guard and have a halogen bulb that is 300 watts or less.
Remedy
Cooper has asked retailers to add the label to bulb packaging currently on store shelves and new 500-watt halogen bulbs will contain the label. Consumers currently using these 500-watt bulbs in a torchiere or indoor residential fixture should remove them immediately. Consumers can continue to use the 500-watt halogen bulbs in work lights, flood lamps, and similar outdoor fixtures.
Incidents and injuries
While Cooper has not received any reports of fires or injuries, the CPSC is aware of at least 290 fires and 25 deaths since 1992, involving halogen torchiere floor lamps.
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.