Recall: 3-M and Borden Spray Adhesives Banned

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 20, 1973
Release # 73-014

CPSC Bans Three Spray Adhesives-- Asks Manufacturers Of Others To Halt Production

WASHINGTON, D.C. --The Consumer Product Safety Commission Monday, acting under the Hazardous Substances Act, declared that three aerosol spray adhesives manufactured by 3-M Company and Borden Company constitute an imminent hazard and, therefore, banned the products.

The Commission--while praising the voluntary action by both Borden and 3-M in immediately halting production and distribution of their spray adhesives--said it was taking the step to stop retail sales of such products to consumers.

On Friday, the Commission had urged consumers to discontinue use of spray adhesives which have been possibly linked to chromosome breakage and resulting multiple birth defects.

"We have sufficient evidence to officially declare `Foil Art Spray Adhesive,' 'Scotch Brand Spra-Ment' and 'Krylon Spray Adhesive' banned hazardous products," CPSC Chairman Richard 0. Simpson said.

"But we are asking manufacturers of all other aerosol spray adhesives to voluntarily discontinue production and distribution of their goods. And we expect that retailers will act immediately to halt sales of all such products," he said.

The Commission's action was based on findings by a University of Oklahoma scientist which strongly suggest a causal relationship between exposure to spray adhesives and presence of chromosome breaks and resulting severe birth defects.

Under the Hazardous Substances Act, retailers face criminal penalties of up to one year in jail and/or $3,000 in fines for continued sales of the 3-M and Borden brand aerosol spray glues.

"We have instructed CPSC field investigators to begin an immediate spot-check of retail establishments to assure that those spray adhesives are off the shelves," Chairman Simpson said.

"In addition, we are designing a comprehensive effort to determine the full extent and implications of the problem. But the complex nature of the situation will prevent an immediate determination of the exact relationship between the spray adhesives and the possible chromosome breakage and resulting multiple birth defects," he said.

Simpson said that the Commission will continue to release information as it becomes available.