October 20, 1998

Schweiss Distributing Co. Announces Recall to Repair Bi-fold Doors

Bi-fold Doors - Schweiss Distributing Co., of Fairfax, Minn., is recalling to repair approximately 500 bottom-operated, bi-fold doors, manufactured by a predecessor company. The doors lack a safety shield which could allow door operators and bystanders to become entrapped in moving door parts, such as the drive drums and cables, causing serious injuries such as amputations and fractures.

These very large doors, used for barns, air craft hangars and commercial buildings, roll up from the bottom to open and fold the door in half as it raises. These doors can be up to 150 feet wide. Writing on the doors includes, "Schweiss Chicken Pluckers." Home improvement stores, such as Menards, lumber yards and custom builders nationwide sold these bi-fold doors from January 1984 to August 1993 for between $800 and $4,500, depending on the size of the door.

Schweiss is offering a free safety shield to help prevent further injuries. To receive a shield, consumers should immediately call Schweiss Distributing Co. at (800) 746-8273 anytime. Until the safety shield is installed, consumers should use extreme caution when operating the doors.