Gas Station Hose Connectors Recalled Due to Fire, Explosion Risk

Nearly 1 million gas station hose connectors have been recalled, following reports of problems where the swivel connectors may separate from the hose nozzle, posing a fuel spill hazard that could result in a fire or explosion if there is an ignition source. 

An OPW gas station hose swivel connectors recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on March 24, 2017, after the manufacturer learned of at least two consumer complaints that the metal swivel connectors separated from the hose or hose nozzle, allowing fuel to spill from gas pump.

Although no injuries or fires have been reported as a result of the recalled hose connectors, the defect may pose a serious risk at gas stations throughout the U.S.

The problems stem from a metal swivel connector that is installed between the nozzle and hose of pumps that dispense gasoline, diesel, ethanol blends and biodiesel fuels. The products are being recalled due to the potential for the swivel connector to come apart from the gas station hose or nozzle. In the event the swivel nozzle separates, fuels could pour from the gas station hose, creating a fire and explosion hazard.

The recall includes an estimated 824,000 swivel connectors, containing model numbers 241TPS-0241C (3/4 inch), 241TPS-0241 (3/4 inch), 36S (3/4 inch), 241-1000 (1 inch), 241-1000C (1 inch), and 36S (1 inch). The recalled swivel connectors have a “MFG date” printed on the end in the format of: MM YY or MM-DD-YEAR or MM-YEAR. For a full list of the recalled products and manufacturing dates, please visit the recall notice linked above.

The recalled gas station hose connectors were manufactured in Taiwan by OPW, of Hamilton, Ohio. They were distributed for sale through distributors and directly to gas stations as individual units and as part of hose kits from January 2013 through January 2017 for about $33.

Customers are being asked to verify if their products are included in the recall by identifying the model and manufacturing number and to stop using the recalled swivel connectors immediately and disconnect them from the pumping station. Customers with recalled products should contact OPW at 866-562-5931 and reference the “Swivel Recall” or visit them online at www.opwglobal.com and navigate to the “Swivel Recall” link to obtain information on how to receive a replacement connector.