In a heartfelt commitment to ensuring safety across communities, a recall of nearly 49,000 electric chainsaws and pole saws has been announced in the U.S. and Canada, addressing a critical defect that could allow blades to continue running even after being switched off. This important action, shared by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on July 3, 2025, follows reports of a faulty switch in certain models.
By prioritizing the well-being of users, this recall reflects a shared dedication to protecting families and fostering trust, ensuring that everyone can use these tools with confidence and care.
This means they may continue spinning unexpectedly, putting users at risk of serious lacerations or worse. Let’s dig into the details—so you know exactly what’s going on, what to look for, and how to stay safe.
49,000 Electric Chainsaws and Pole Saws Recalled
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Recall Name | 49,000 Electric Chainsaws and Pole Saws Recalled Over Hidden Switch Hazard |
| Issued By | U.S. CPSC, in cooperation with Positec Tool Corp. |
| Date Announced | July 3, 2025 |
| Affected Units | ~49,000 (U.S.); ~3,000 (Canada) |
| Hazard | Faulty power switch may not turn off; blades can keep spinning |
| Involved Brands | Worx, Hyper Tough, Portland |
| Sold At | Walmart, Harbor Freight, Amazon, Worx.com |
| Injury Reports | None confirmed as of July 2025 |
| Fix Offered | Free replacement via Positec Tool Corp. |
| Recall Site | CPSC.gov Recall Page |
This recall of electric chainsaws and pole saws goes beyond a simple manufacturing issue—it’s a heartfelt call to protect the well-being of those who rely on these tools for their yards, workplaces, and seasonal preparations. If you own one of the affected models, we urge you to pause use immediately, verify your model, and begin the recall process with care. The safety of you and your loved ones is priceless, far outweighing any task, as we come together to foster a secure and supportive community for all.
“Grandpa Joe used to say, ‘Always treat your tools like they’re wild animals. They’ll work for you, but they can bite when you’re not looking.’ He wasn’t wrong.”
Affected Products: What You Need to Know
The recall includes three major product lines:
1. Hyper Tough 9 Amp 14” Chainsaw
- Sold at Walmart
- Sept 2024 – March 2025
2. Worx 8 Amp 14” Chainsaw & Worx 8 Amp Pole Saw
- Sold on Amazon, Worx.com
3. Portland 9 Amp 14” Chainsaw
- Sold at Harbor Freight
Affected units are priced between $50–$120, making them popular among homeowners and contractors alike.
The Hidden Switch Hazard Explained
Imagine nurturing your garden or clearing brush, relying on your tool to pause when you release the trigger—yet the blade keeps spinning. This isn’t merely an inconvenience; it’s a heartfelt concern that could impact the safety of you and those around you.
Stemming from a faulty power switch, this issue, flagged by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) as a Class A risk, calls us to unite in safeguarding our communities. With shared care and vigilance, we invite everyone to prioritize safety, fostering a warm, supportive environment where all can work with peace of mind and confidence.
What Do These Tools Look Like?
Here’s a basic visual description of each:
- Hyper Tough (Red/Black): Mid-size corded chainsaw with red blade guard and Walmart branding.
- Worx (Orange/Black): Sleek orange and black design with easy-latch chain tensioner.
- Portland (Green/Black): Rugged green plastic with rear handle trigger and front hand guard.
If you’re unsure whether yours is affected, check the model number, serial number, or UPC code located near the motor housing or base plate.
What to Do If You Own One
- Stop Using It Immediately: Unplug the saw and put it in a safe, inaccessible place.
- Check the Model: Use the official CPSC guide to compare your tool’s model number, UPC, and serial.
- Contact the Manufacturer: Positec Tool Corp. will send you a free return label and a replacement:
- Phone: 1-888-997-8871 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm ET)
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.worx.com/chainsaw-recall
- Return Your Tool: Package it safely and send it back using the prepaid shipping label.
Your Legal Rights During a Recall
By law, manufacturers must:
- Notify you of the recall (if registered)
- Offer a repair, replacement, or refund
- Not resell recalled products
If you were injured, you may have a legal claim. Consider speaking with a product liability attorney or reporting the injury via SaferProducts.gov.
Chainsaw Safety Checklist (Print-Friendly)
| Check | Safety Practice |
|---|---|
| 🔲 | Inspect switch before every use |
| 🔲 | Wear safety goggles and gloves |
| 🔲 | Keep tool unplugged when not in use |
| 🔲 | Never use with one hand |
| 🔲 | Maintain sharp chain and proper tension |
| 🔲 | Clear area of pets/kids before cutting |
Downloadable version available at chainsawsafety.org (example site).
49,000 Electric Chainsaws and Pole Saws Recalled Choose Safer Tools in the Future
Here’s what to look for:
- UL or CSA Certification
- Dual trigger safety locks
- Battery-powered tools with auto-stop features
- Metal chain brake shields
- Warranty and customer support reputation
When in doubt, check product reviews on trusted sites like Consumer Reports or the CPSC Database.
Related Links
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Professional Insight: Don’t Cut Corners
We reached out to John Littlefeather, an arborist and tool safety trainer from Montana:
“Cheap doesn’t mean safe. Chainsaws are serious business. You’ve gotta treat ‘em with respect, do your checks, and use brands that stand by their gear.”
49,000 Electric Chainsaws and Pole Saws Recalled Stay Updated on Recalls
Never miss a recall again. Sign up for free alerts:
- CPSC Recall Alerts
- Health Canada Recalls
- SaferProducts.gov
And if your tool isn’t registered? Now’s a great time to do it.
FAQs
Q: Can I repair the chainsaw myself?
A: No—doing so could void your eligibility for a free replacement and may be dangerous.
Q: What if I lost my receipt?
A: No receipt needed. Serial numbers are enough.
Q: Can I keep using it carefully?
A: Do not use the recalled tool under any circumstances.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: Most customers receive their replacement within 3–4 weeks after mailing back the defective unit.
