Medical device manufacturer, Draeger Medical GmbH, has issued a medical device safety alert concerning ceiling supply units (CSU) [Model: CSU 603X/ 803X] with year of construction between 1997 and 2003.
In the course of the manufacturer's international market observations, there were cases in which the drive screw in the motor unit, which lifts and lowers the lower lift arm, broke. As a result, the lift arm fell down approx. 60 cm (23.6 inches).
If the drive screw breaks, personnel standing under the CSU may be injured or objects damaged. An inclined alignment of the motor unit has been identified the root cause for the drive screw breaking. In the cases in question, this inclined alignment was caused by:
These three potential causes can be detected during maintenance. Additionally, the performance of regular maintenance can prevent this type of failure. According to the information in the instructions for use, ceiling supply units must be maintained in regular intervals. This is the only way to ensure safety and reliability during the period of use.
The manufacturer advises a further inspection of the location of the motor unit according to the test instructions they given together with the field safety notice if users had no service contract with the company. If users identify an inclined alignment of the motor unit, they should replace it as soon as possible. In such a case, special care should be taken that no persons or objects are under the media head until the motor unit has been replaced.
According to the local supplier, the affected products were distributed in Hong Kong.
If you are in possession of the affected products, please contact your supplier for necessary actions.
Posted on 9 August 2013