Important Safety Alerts

Medical device manufacturer, Medela Inc., has issued a medical device safety alert concerning its UK (Type G) detachable power plugs of three models of Medela breast pump. [Model (product numbers): 1) Swing maxi (200.4726, 040.0005, 040.0007, 040.0010, 040.0014, 040.0015, 040.0016, 040.0019, 040.0024; 2) Freestyle (042.0009, 042.0011, 042.0013, 042.0013 01, 042.0015, 099.0272, 099.0274); 3) Swing (200.4730, 030.0030, 030.0032, 030.0035, 030.0039, 030.0039 01, 030.0043, 030.0044, 030.0048, 030.0052, 030.0056, 030.0057, 099.0017)].

The manufacturer is launching a voluntary replacement program for UK (Type G) detachable power plugs. The detachable plug connects to a power supply base which is included in a breast pump system. Since June 2012, the manufacturer has marketed both breast pump systems and replacement power supplies (with enclosed plug adapters). The Medela breast pumps with affected detachable power plugs are Swing Maxi, Swing and Freestyle.

This voluntary replacement program only applies to detachable power plugs for UK sockets. Other products or power supply adapters for other sockets are not affected by this voluntary replacement program. Also, Medela breast pumps themselves, Swing Maxi, Swing and Freestyle are not affected.

According to the manufacturer, this replacement program is in response to a report where a detachable power plug allegedly broke apart and the respective user experienced an electric shock. If users apply a certain level of force while removing affected detachable power plugs from UK sockets, the detachable power plugs might break apart potentially exposing live parts.

As a precautionary measure, the manufacturer asks customers to comply with the following:

• While removing an affected power supply adapter for UK sockets, remove the plug slowly and deliberately, apply as little force as possible, and handle the whole adapter with utmost attention and caution. If users apply a certain level of force, an affected detachable power plug might break apart.
• If the detachable power plug breaks, turn off the power source before removing it from the wall. Remove the detachable power plug from the power socket and do not use it before a replacement is available.
• Users may use the breast pumps Swing and Swing Maxi with batteries instead of the affected power supply adapter.

According to the local supplier, the affected products are distributed in Hong Kong.

For details, please refer to the manufacturer's website: https://www.medela.com/breastfeeding/products/important-safety-notice

If you are in possession of the affected products, please contact your supplier for necessary actions.

Posted on 28 September 2016