CONSUMER SAFETY ALERT

The drill bit packages are not properly labeled with precautionary information on proper use and operation. These and other manufacturers' 13-inch bits can bend when run at a high speed without being in contact with a work surface, resulting in loss of control of the drill and possible lacerations. The safety label should read: "! WARNING Read, understand and comply with tool manual before use. Wear eye protection. Max operating speed 600 RPM. At higher speeds the bit is likely to bend if allowed to rotate freely without contacting the work. Start drilling at low RPM and with bit tip in contact with work. To avoid bit bowing - Apply pressure only in direct line with bit and do not apply excessive pressure. Bits can bind, causing breakage or loss of control. Do not use in hammer drills or in drill press."
Official Consumer Product Safety Recall • June 9, 2006

Safety Alert: Robert Bosch Tool Corp. Masonry Drill Bits Lack Safety Warning Label

The drill bits are 1/4 inch by 13 inches long, 5/16 inch by 13 inches long, 3/8 inch by 13 inches long, and 1/2 inch by 13 inches long. They were sold separately as accessories under the "Vermont American" brand name under catalog numbers: 14044, 14045, 14046, and 14048.

Required Consumer Action

Consumers should make sure that 13-inch masonry drill bits are in contact with a work surface at all times while operating the drill. Consumers with these drill bits that are missing the safety instructions should contact Vermont American Customer Service to obtain safety warning information.

Contact Information

Call Robert Bosch Tool Corp. at (800) 742-3869 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday thru Friday.

Recall Details

Sold At
Hardware stores and home centers nationwide from January 2001 through April 2004 for between $7 and $10.
Injuries
Robert Bosch Tool Corp. received one report of a minor injury.
Manufacturer
Robert Bosch Tool Corp., Mt. Prospect, Ill.
Recall Number
06185

Product Information

Product Name
Vermont American® 13-inch-Long Masonry Drill Bits
Product Type
Drills & Bits
Number of Units
About 700,000
Manufacturer Name
Robert Bosch Tool Corp., Mt. Prospect, Ill.
Manufactured In
United States

Register This Product

Contact Manufacturer

Use the contact information below to reach out about this recall:

Full Contact Information

Call Robert Bosch Tool Corp. at (800) 742-3869 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday thru Friday.