On May 22, 2008, American Scientific LLC recalled about 87,000 magnets because surface paint on the magnets violate the federal lead paint standard, posing a lead poisoning risk.

Horseshoe, rectangular bar, and U-shaped magnets are included in the recall, and were sold to primary schools for use in science classes. Recalled American Scientific magnets have red and blue paint.

The following are item numbers and descriptions of the magnets included in the recall:

• Bar-shaped Steel: Item Numbers 3101-01, 02, 20
• Horseshoe-shaped Steel: Item Numbers 3102-01, 02, 03, 04
• Pair of Bar-shaped Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt: Item Numbers 3106-04, 06
• Horseshoe-shaped Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt: Item Number 3108-01
• Pair of Economy, Bar-shaped Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt: Item Number 3126-06
• U-shaped: Item Number AR-110
• Bar-shaped: N38 (3126-07)

Item numbers are printed on the product’s packaging. Independent distributors nationwide sold the recalled American Scientific magnets from October 2006 through February 2008 for between $1 and $4.

Consumers are advised to immediately stop using the recalled magnets and contact American Scientific at 866-518-1665 for a replacement. For more information, customers may also email the company or visit its website.

Source: “American Scientific Recalls Magnets Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard,” US Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #08-284, May 22, 2008.