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Statement of Commissioner Trumka on $6 Million Penalty Against Clawfoot

September 15, 2022

By imposing a $6 million civil penalty on Clawfoot Supply, LLC, the Commission  underscores that companies should not view penalties for violating the law as a cost of doing  business. Companies are on notice: report information on product hazards immediately or face  stark financial consequences. 

Clawfoot sold only 6,400 defective shower seats for $150 to $160 each. Not only did we  ensure that Clawfoot offered full refunds to consumers, but today the company is paying a fine  of 6-times the original sale amount ($937.50 per product sold). CPSC’s penalty has ensured that  selling the hazardous seats was bad business for Clawfoot. I am confident that this Commission  will continue to create strong disincentives for companies hiding vital safety information. 

Here, Clawfoot’s corroded shower seats broke apart, injuring people, causing scrapes,  bruises, deep lacerations, and fractured bones. Even after receiving multiple reports of corrosion  and breakage, the company failed to report the issues. Instead of reporting to CPSC, Clawfoot  conducted a shadow recall, offering a failed solution that continued to put people at serious risk  of harm, all while keeping us in the dark and preventing us from taking action to protect  consumers. Companies that hide safety information must face punishment. 

 

Statement
Report an unsafe product