Issue Date:  -  Friday, 16 August 2002

Novelty Spray Foam - Product Recall

Two hundred and ninety six thousand cans of American made aerosol foam being sold in Australia are being recalled due to occasions of the containers exploding and causing injuries.

“Although there have only been a few reports and injuries have been relatively minor, the decision to recall Smatter spray foam by the manufacturers is a good one”, WA Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

Smatter spray foam is an aerosol product that sprays soft foam from a can when the nozzle is pushed. The product is promoted for use at parties, celebrations and for games and has the word “Smatter” in large print on it’s packaging.

“In the reported cases of pressurised cans exploding, they had been in motor vehicles during hot weather. On two occasions the cans exploded with sufficient force to crack the windscreens of the vehicles”, Commissioner Walker said.

Smatter spray foam was available in department and toy stores including David Jones, Big W, Toys R Us and various independent toy stores. Consumers should return the product to the place of purchase for a refund.

“A good rule of thumb is to never leave any aerosol product in a motor vehicle as high temperatures could cause the packaging to rupture and cause injury”, Mr. Walker said.

Smatter spray foam comes in “Original Smatter”, “Spit Smatter” and “Fatter Smatter”, all which can be identified by the word “Smatter” in bold printing as well as the word “Nickelodeon™” on an orange handle.

For further information or for assistance with refunds, contact Consumer Protection on telephone number 1300 30 40 54.