October 17, 2002
Swingline Announces Recall of Rechargeable Staplers

Swingline, a division of Acco Brands Inc., of Lincolnshire, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 11,100 cordless, rechargeable staplers. If a consumer inadvertently releases the spring- loaded staple magazine while holding the stapler close to his/her face, there is a risk of injury from a fully loaded magazine striking a consumer in the face.

Swingline has not received any reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled cordless stapler is silver and black and comes with a black charger and charger base. The stapler, charger, and charger base have the name "Swingline" printed on them. The stapler's model number, 48201, as well as the words "Made in China," are stamped on the battery cover on the bottom of the stapler. If the battery cover has the letter "S" in the upper right corner, then the stapler is not included in the recall.
Office supply retailers nationwide sold the staplers from June 2002 through September 2002 for about $75.

Consumers should stop using these staplers immediately and contact Swingline at (800) 352-6853 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for a free replacement. For more information, consumers can log on to the company's website at http://www.swingline.com/b2c/consumerservice/sw/swRecharge10-02.pdf