Tainted Triad Alcohol Pads' Production Shut Down
Over on FindLaw's Common Law, we reported on the Triad recall when the medical supply company voluntarily recalled alcohol pads, wipes, and petroleum jelly that was shown to be contaminated with dangerous bacteria known as Bacillus cereus.
The company has now voluntarily shut down production of its Triad alcohol pads and other contaminated lines.
The Food and Drug Administration has logged 161 reports stemming from the use of Triad alcohol pads, according to MSNBC. One child died after developing meningitis allegedly caused by the pads, while another suffering from Leukemia developed bloodstream infections. The Colorado hospital at which he was staying connected a few other infections on its pediatric ward to the Triad recall, notes FairWarning.
Though the voluntary Triad recall has ended in a voluntary stop in production, no sanctions have been levied against the company by the FDA. However, inspectors found microbial contamination at the manufacturing site, as well as problems with employees not being properly trained, exercising proper caution, and being too few in numbers, further notes MSNBC.
While the results of the investigation are likely to have an impact on the negligence and wrongful death suits stemming from Triad alcohol pads, the fact that the company voluntary shut down production will likely not.
Stopping production is not akin to admitting fault. With the widespread Triad recall, continued production of the pads creates a public relations problem. Consumers don't believe that the company is doing enough to prevent further harm, which is hurting its image. Manufacturing the pads is thus no longer profitable. The decision is being portrayed as business-driven, and probably won't impact a finding of liability.
Related Resources:
- Aurora hospital's discovery leads to national recall of alcohol wipes (KWGN)
- Smith & Nephew recalls antiseptic wipes made by Triad Group (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
- Alcohol Swabs to Blame for Toddlers Death? (FindLaw's Injured)
- Defective and Dangerous Products (FindLaw)
- Wrongful Death - Overview (FindLaw)