Southwire Recalls Non-Contact Voltage Detectors

Southwire Recalls Non-Contact Voltage Detectors

June 27, 2016

This recall expansion involves Southwire non-contact voltage detectors with model numbers 40110N and 40120N, sold as part of the Multimeter kit.

The recalled voltage detectors are designed to alert users to the presence of electric current running through electrical wires. 

About 3700 units of the recalled voltage detectors were sold in Canada from June 2013 to February 2016 at various home and hardware stores and online. 

Description

The voltage detectors

  • are cylindrically shaped, about 15 centimetres (6 inches) long and about 2 centimetres (1 inch) in diameter
  • are brown and black in colour with a white tip
  • have a red LED light to indicate the presence of live electric current

“Southwire”, the model number and the CE and UL listing symbols are printed on the product. The product has UL certification file number E36189. 

Hazard identified 

The voltage detectors can give a false or “no voltage” reading when being used to test live wires for electric current, posing shock, electrocution and burn hazards to consumers. Neither Health Canada nor Southwire Company LLC have received any reports of consumer incidents or injuries to Canadians related to the use of this product.

Southwire Company LLC has received one report of an incident of a false reading by the voltage detector in the United States, where the user reportedly received an electrical shock and fell off a ladder.

What you should do 

Immediately stop using the recalled voltage detectors and contact Southwire Company LLC for instructions on returning them for a free replacement voltage detector. 

For more information, contact Southwire Company LLC toll free at 1-855-798-6657 from 9:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or through the company website and click on “Product Recall” for more information.

 

Related Articles

Latest Articles

  • Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 56

    Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 56

    February 6, 2026 The Code is a comprehensive document. Sometimes it can seem quite daunting to quickly find the information you need. This series of articles provides a guide to help users find their way through this critical document. This is not intended to replace the notes in Appendix B or the explanations of individual Read More…

  • 3D Printing: Inside Lighting’s Next Revolution

    February 5, 2026 While 3D printing in mass production was once a dream, advancements in the technology have moved it more into the mainstream. The technique, which is also referred to as additive manufacturing, has rapidly evolved from a niche prototyping tool into a transformative production method for many sectors, including the lighting industry. As Read More…

  • Microgrids & Power Quality: Designing Resilient, Clean Facility Power

    Microgrids & Power Quality: Designing Resilient, Clean Facility Power

    February 5, 2026 In an era of extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and ever‑rising energy demands, many facility managers are rethinking their relationship with the grid. Microgrids offer a way to take control and operate autonomously when necessary. A microgrid is more than just backup, when designed properly, it becomes a platform for resiliency, efficiency, and Read More…

  • ITC 101: Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures

    ITC 101: Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures

    February 5, 2026 Understanding NEMA Ratings for Electrical Enclosures NEMA Ratings are an essential classification system used across North America to define the environmental and mechanical protection provided by electrical enclosures. Developed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), these ratings help engineers, installers, and specifiers identify the appropriate enclosure type for industrial, commercial, and outdoor Read More…

Changing Scene

  • Lighting What’s Next: Stanpro Celebrates 65 Years

    Lighting What’s Next: Stanpro Celebrates 65 Years

    February 6, 2026 “We didn’t get here by standing still. For 65 years, we’ve shaped how we think, how we design, and what responsibility means,” the company said in a LinkedIn post. “Today, that thinking takes a new form. Not to change who we are, but to express our evolution more clearly. This is Stanpro, Read More…

  • Housing Priorities on Track in New Brunswick, but More Work to do: Hickey

    Housing Priorities on Track in New Brunswick, but More Work to do: Hickey

    February 6, 2026 Efforts to support the creation of new affordable housing and reduce chronic homelessness are on track, but there is still lots of work to do, according to David Hickey, the minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation. New data indicates progress has been made on three key government priorities related to Read More…

  • BJ Electric is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd

    BJ Electric is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd

    February 6, 2026 BJ Electric has announced the company has rebranded as Bernie’s Electric Supplies Ltd, a nod to their founder. “BJ Electric Supplies is now Bernie’s Electric Supplies—in honor of our founder, Bernard Joseph Thompson, and the values that have guided the company for nearly 50 years. As we grow and evolve, this name Read More…

  • The Government of Canada Introduces the Build Canada Homes Act

    The Government of Canada Introduces the Build Canada Homes Act

    February 6, 2026 The Government of Canada has introduced the Build Canada Homes Act, legislation that will establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation whose mandate will be dedicated to building affordable housing in communities across the country. As Canada’s affordable housing builder, this legislation will equip Build Canada Homes with the necessary tools to Read More…