Aux Sable Liquid Products Recall

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As a consumer of propane gas, I want to express my deepest appreciation for the vital safety measures implemented by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Aux Sable Liquid Products. The proactive steps taken during the 2011 recall, which involved inspecting and ensuring the correct levels of odorant in propane gas, exemplify a commitment to consumer safety that should not go unnoticed.

Your efforts likely saved countless lives by preventing potential disasters caused by undetected gas leaks. The idea of providing Superman sweatshirts as a token of appreciation is a fun and fitting way to honor the superhuman efforts taken to safeguard the public. This gesture, though symbolic, underscores the importance of your mission and the significant impact of your diligent work.

Thank you for setting a high standard in product safety and for your relentless dedication to protecting consumers. Your work does not go unnoticed, and as a consumer, I feel safer knowing such vigilant measures are in place. Jason Hecht

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A Look Back to the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products Recalls

According to the the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission a massive propane recall was launched on January 20, 2011 after discovering some of the fuel did not contain the substance that allows people to smell a leak

The government agency warned of the risk of explosion.
Distributed by Aux Sable Liquid Products, an Illinois-based company, the fuel was distributed to 14 states in the East and South. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission could not estimate how many consumers were affected by the dangerous fuel. However enough fuel was sold between February and September  2010 to fill 700 railroad tanker cars.

Aux Sable Liquid Products Recalls to Inspect Propane Gas; Can Pose Fire and Burn Hazards

Recall date: January 20, 2011
Recall number: 11-102

Name of product:
Propane (LP) Gas sold in portable cylinders and delivered to storage tanks

Hazard:
This recall involves odorized propane gas delivered for storage tanks or sold in portable cylinders between February 25, 2010 and September 30, 2010.
Since some of this propane fuel does not have sufficient levels of the odorant that is added to propane to help alert consumers of a gas leak, the result of an undetected link  could result in fire, explosion and thermal burn hazards to consumers.

Call the Propane Gas Alert Hotline

If you believe you purchased such propane fuel schedule an inspection by calling the Propane Gas Alert Hotline: (866)-473-7612
Consumers in the affected states whose most recent propane gas purchase or delivery was between February 25, 2010 and September 30, 2010 should immediately contact Aux Sable to arrange for a free inspection. If there is insufficient odorant, additional odorized propane or a replacement portable propane cylinder will be provided free of charge. To schedule your inspection, call the Propane Gas Alert Hotline at (866) 473-7612.
Aux Sable Liquid Products Recalls to Inspect Propane Gas; Can Pose Fire and Burn Hazards

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of product: Propane (LP) Gas sold in portable cylinders and delivered to storage tanks
Units: About 700 rail cars

Manufacturer: Aux Sable Liquid Products, of Morris, Ill.

Hazard: Some of this propane does not have sufficient levels of the odorant that is added to propane to help alert consumers to a gas leak. Failure to detect leaking gas can present fire, explosion and thermal burn hazards to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves odorized propane gas delivered for storage tanks or sold in portable cylinders between February 25, 2010 and September 30, 2010. If the storage tank has been refilled or if the consumer has received additional propane since September 30, 2010, such propane is not included in this recall.

Sold at: Propane retailers in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont and Virginia from February 25, 2010 through September 30, 2010.
Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers in the affected states whose most recent propane gas purchase or delivery was between February 25, 2010 and September 30, 2010 should immediately contact Aux Sable to arrange for a free inspection. If there is insufficient odorant, additional odorized propane or a replacement portable propane cylinder will be provided free of charge. To schedule your inspection, call the Propane Gas Alert Hotline at (866) 473-7612.

Consumer Contact: For additional information or to schedule your inspection, contact Aux Sable toll-free at (866) 473-7612.
State fire officials in some of the impacted states already issued notice to users in limited areas.

NOTE: Consumers should not attempt to test the propane gas themselves. In addition, if you smell even a faint odor of gas and suspect a gas leak:

• Leave the house immediately.
• Do not use your phone; Call your gas supplier or dial 911 for assistance from a neighbor’s house.
• Do not light a match.
• Do not turn on a light.
• Do not switch on anything electrical.

 

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More Background On The Aux Sable Liquid Products Recall

The 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products Propane Recall: A Detailed Overview

Background and Overview

In 2011, Aux Sable Liquid Products initiated a significant recall affecting propane (LP) gas sold across fourteen states in the Eastern and Southern United States. The recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on January 20, 2011, and was triggered by a serious safety hazard—some of the propane distributed did not contain sufficient levels of odorant to alert users to the presence of a leak. Odorants in propane are crucial because propane is naturally odorless, and without these additives, leaks can go undetected, posing severe risks of fire and explosion.

Scope and Impact

The recall involved propane delivered for storage in tanks or sold in portable cylinders between February 25, 2010, and September 30, 2010. Approximately 700 railroad tanker cars worth of propane were affected. This under-odorized propane was distributed in multiple states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, and Virginia.

Safety Hazards and Risks

The primary risk associated with the under-odorized propane was the potential for users to remain unaware of gas leaks, which could lead to fire, explosions, and thermal burns. Given propane's extensive use in residential heating, cooking, and as a fuel for certain industrial applications, the potential for harm was significant, necessitating swift and comprehensive recall actions.

Response and Remediation

Aux Sable Liquid Products, in cooperation with the CPSC, took immediate steps to address the hazard. Consumers who had purchased or received deliveries of propane during the specified period were urged to contact Aux Sable for a free inspection of their propane supply. If the inspection revealed insufficient levels of odorant, the company provided additional odorized propane or replaced the portable propane cylinders free of charge.

Legal and Regulatory Implications

The recall highlighted the importance of stringent quality control measures in the production and distribution of propane. It also underscored the role of regulatory bodies like the CPSC in overseeing product safety and enforcing standards that protect consumers. The event led to increased scrutiny of propane distribution practices and prompted discussions about enhancing industry regulations concerning odorant levels in propane.

Public and Consumer Reactions

The recall received substantial media attention due to its scale and the number of consumers potentially affected. State fire officials and consumer safety advocates played crucial roles in disseminating information and ensuring that consumers were aware of the recall and knew how to respond. Public reaction was one of concern, given the serious nature of the risks involved, but also appreciation for the proactive steps taken by Aux Sable and regulatory bodies to manage the situation effectively.

 

Press & Media Coverage

The 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products propane recall garnered significant attention from various media outlets, reflecting the serious nature of the safety hazards involved and the wide geographic impact of the recall. Below is a summary of how the press and media covered this event:

Immediate Release and Widespread Notification

Upon the announcement of the recall, media outlets were quick to release details provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC issued a press release which was widely circulated, ensuring that the information reached affected consumers promptly .

State-Level Reactions

Different states reacted to the recall based on the impact on their residents. For instance, in Connecticut, the Attorney General, along with the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Consumer Protection, obtained a list of propane gas companies affected by the recall to facilitate communication with consumers and ensure their safety .

Detailed Information Sharing

Media coverage included detailed information about the specifics of the recall, such as the exact periods during which the affected propane was sold, the risks posed by the under-odorized propane, and the actions consumers should take if they had purchased or received deliveries of the gas during the specified timeframe. This coverage was crucial in educating the public about the recall and preventing potential accidents .

Consumer Safety and Legal Aspects

Some articles discussed the broader legal and safety implications of the recall, reflecting on the responsibilities of companies in ensuring product safety and the regulatory roles of bodies like the CPSC. This aspect of the coverage highlighted the importance of compliance with safety standards and the legal repercussions of failing to do so .

Follow-Up and Ongoing Coverage

The media also followed up on the recall, reporting on the responses from Aux Sable and the CPSC, the number of consumers affected, and any updates regarding the rectification measures taken by the company. This ongoing coverage ensured that the public remained informed about the developments related to the recall and the steps being taken to address the issue .

 

The audience affected by the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products propane recall was diverse and spread across multiple states, reflecting the widespread use of propane and the broad impact of the recall. Here are the key segments of this audience:

Residential Consumers

The primary audience consisted of homeowners and renters who used propane for heating and cooking purposes. This group was directly affected as they were the end-users of the propane cylinders and storage tanks that might contain the under-odorized propane. Their primary concern was the safety of their households, especially regarding the potential risks of undetected propane leaks that could lead to fire or explosion.

Commercial and Industrial Users

Businesses and industries that relied on propane for various applications, such as heating, manufacturing processes, or as a fuel for vehicles, also constituted a significant segment of the audience. These users were concerned about the operational impact of the recall and the safety of their facilities and employees.

Safety and Regulatory Officials

State fire officials, safety regulators, and consumer protection agencies were another important audience. Their focus was on ensuring public safety by disseminating information about the recall effectively and overseeing the recall process to ensure compliance and proper execution by Aux Sable Liquid Products.

Legal and Compliance Departments

Given the legal implications of a recall of this magnitude, corporate legal teams, especially those within companies distributing or selling the propane, were closely monitoring the situation. They needed to understand the recall's details to advise their firms properly and to prepare for any potential legal actions stemming from the recall.

Media and Press

Journalists and media outlets covering consumer safety, legal issues, and local news were also key audiences. Their role was to report on the recall accurately and responsibly, providing essential information to the public and holding relevant parties accountable.

Propane Retailers and Distributors

The companies that sold or distributed the affected propane were crucially involved in the recall process. They needed detailed information about the scope of the recall, the steps required to rectify the issue, and how to communicate with their customers effectively.

Key Communication Needs of the Audience

Each segment of the audience had specific informational needs related to the recall:

• Residential and Commercial Users: Clear instructions on how to detect if their propane was part of the recall, what steps to follow if it was, and how to ensure their safety.
• Safety and Regulatory Officials: Details about the extent of the recall, the cooperation of Aux Sable Liquid Products, and updates on the recall's progress to manage public safety effectively.
• Legal and Compliance Departments: Understanding the legal ramifications and compliance requirements associated with the recall.
• Media and Press: Facts, updates, and expert opinions to create informative and accurate reports for the public.
• Propane Retailers and Distributors: Information on how to handle customer inquiries, conduct inspections, and replace or refund affected propane supplies.

Understanding these audience segments and their specific needs was crucial for effective communication during the recall, ensuring that all parties involved were informed, safe, and compliant with regulatory standards.

 

Cultural and Social Significance of the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products Propane Recall

The 2011 recall of under-odorized propane by Aux Sable Liquid Products held significant cultural and social implications, influencing public perceptions of energy safety, regulatory standards, and corporate responsibility. Here’s a breakdown of the key cultural and social impacts:

Public Awareness and Safety Culture

The recall played a crucial role in heightening public awareness about the importance of safety measures in household and industrial energy use. It underscored the critical need for odorants in propane, which, although a common knowledge in certain circles, might not have been as widely understood among the general populace. The event emphasized the reliance on smell as a first-line indicator of gas leaks, spotlighting how everyday sensory experiences are engineered to ensure safety in domestic and work environments.

Trust in Energy Providers and Regulators

The recall had a dual impact on trust in energy providers and regulatory bodies. On one hand, the swift action taken by Aux Sable and overseen by the CPSC could have reinforced public trust in these institutions' commitment to safety. On the other hand, the fact that such a significant oversight occurred in the first place could have eroded confidence in these entities' ability to prevent potential dangers related to energy provision.

Community and Individual Response

The recall demonstrated the power of community and individual responses to potential hazards. It highlighted how local and state officials, along with consumers, can collaborate effectively in crisis situations to disseminate information and coordinate safety measures. This aspect of the recall reflects a broader social understanding of communal responsibility and individual proactive engagement in safety practices.

Discussion on Corporate Responsibility

The incident sparked discussions on corporate responsibility, particularly regarding the obligations of companies to ensure the safety of their products. It raised questions about the adequacy of existing safety protocols and whether companies are doing enough to prevent such risks. The recall also touched on the responsibilities of corporations to transparently and promptly address safety issues when they arise.

Legal and Ethical Implications

From a social perspective, the recall brought to the forefront the legal and ethical implications of product safety. It became a case study in how businesses handle potential liabilities and the importance of regulatory frameworks that protect consumer interests. The legal ramifications for Aux Sable could have also influenced how similar companies approach compliance and safety standards.

Media’s Role in Public Safety

Finally, the recall underscored the critical role of the media in maintaining public safety. The widespread coverage helped ensure that those affected were quickly informed and could take necessary actions to mitigate risks. It also showed the media’s role in holding corporations and regulators accountable, providing a check on their operations and ensuring they act in the public's best interests.

Overall, the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products propane recall is a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of technological, regulatory, and community factors in managing and mitigating risks in modern societies. It reflects broader cultural narratives about energy dependence, safety, and the responsibilities of various societal actors in ensuring public welfare.

 

Goals

Goals Addressed by the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products Propane Recall

The 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products propane recall was driven by several key goals, each aimed at addressing specific issues related to the safety, regulatory compliance, and public trust concerns raised by the incident. Here's a detailed look at the primary objectives:

Ensuring Public Safety

The foremost goal of the recall was to ensure the safety of the public. This involved removing or correcting the batches of propane that lacked sufficient odorant levels to detect leaks effectively. Ensuring that all affected propane was either replaced or adequately odorized was critical to prevent potential hazards such as fires or explosions.

Regulatory Compliance

The recall aimed to comply with existing safety regulations that mandate specific standards for propane odorization. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for legal operation and public trust, and the recall served to align Aux Sable's products with federal and state safety standards.

Restoring Consumer Confidence

Following the recall, a significant goal was to restore and maintain consumer confidence in Aux Sable's products and the broader propane industry. This involved transparent communication and diligent action to rectify the issue, demonstrating the company's commitment to consumer safety and product quality.

Preventing Future Incidents

Another key goal was to implement measures that would prevent future occurrences of similar issues. This included reviewing and potentially revising the procedures and checks in place for adding odorant to propane. Ensuring more stringent control measures and possibly upgrading equipment or protocols were part of this objective.

Educating Consumers and Distributors

The recall also aimed at educating both consumers and distributors about the importance of odorant in propane and the risks associated with under-odorized propane. Providing information on how to detect and respond to propane leaks was essential for preventing accidents, even beyond the scope of the recalled products.

Legal and Ethical Responsibility

Addressing the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with the recall was also crucial. This involved conducting the recall in a manner that was legally sound and ethically responsible, ensuring that all affected parties received appropriate guidance and compensation (where necessary) without undue delay.

Enhancing Monitoring and Reporting Systems

Finally, the recall likely aimed to enhance monitoring and reporting systems within Aux Sable and potentially across the industry. This could involve the adoption of more robust systems for tracking product quality and more effective communication channels for reporting potential safety issues.

Through these goals, the 2011 Aux Sable Liquid Products propane recall sought to address immediate safety concerns and contribute to the long-term reliability and safety of propane products in the market. Each goal was integral to managing the recall effectively and minimizing its impact on consumers and the company.

 

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, D.C. 20207

Propane Gas Alert Hotline: (866)-473-7612
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC
Media Contact: (301) 504-7908