Company fined $900,000 for defect blamed in child deaths

By Julie Vallese
CNN Consumer Safety Editor

WASHINGTON (CNN) - A Virginia-based furniture company has been fined $900,000 for failing to report a defect in two cedar chest models that is blamed for the suffocation deaths of at least seven children.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the fine Friday, arguing The Lane Company was aware of defects with its "Lane" and "Virginia Maid" brand cedar chests.

The lids on chests made before 1987 could automatically latch shut when closed. The problem is blamed for the suffocation deaths of at least seven children and two near-fatalities. The victims ranged in age from 21 months to 10 years old.

The company manufactured about 12 million of the cedar chests between 1912 and 1987. After 1987, Lane changed the design so the lids do not automatically latch when closed.

Companies are required to notify the CPSC of possible product defects in a timely manner. CPSC accused Lane of failing to comply with the law. Although Lane agreed to settle the matter by paying the fine, they deny they violated the law.

In September 1996, the CPSC announced the company would voluntarily replace the locks with a new modle that keeps the lids from latching when shut. After learning of additional deaths, Lane announced a renewed effort to locate chests and correct the latching problem in March 2000.

Although the product was first manufactured long before the CPSC was created, the agency still has jurisdiction over the safety of the product. Any product continuously made by the same company, even before the CPSC's creation, is subject to federal regulation.

Consumers who own a Lane cedar chest manufactured before 1987 can call 888-856-8758 or log on to www.newlock.net for a free replacement lock.