Canon recalls some PowerShot SX50 cameras over viewfinder allergy fears

 

 

Regular readers may remember that some 18 months ago, Canon recalled some of its EOS Rebel T4i digital SLRs, after a problem with improperly-vulcanized handgrip rubber was discovered in part of the production run. Now, the company has been struck by the same issue in a different product line: the PowerShot SX50 HS ultrazoom.

According to a newly-issued product advisory, the Canon SX50's viewfinder may experience the same issue as did the T4i handgrip, with improper vulcanization causing a white deposit to form on the rubber portion of the eyecup. Affected cameras were manufactured between September 1st and November 15, 2013. Potentially-affected cameras will have a serial number starting with "69", and with the number "1" in the sixth digit (as in the picture below.)

 

Affected cameras will have a serial number starting with "69", and with "1" in the sixth digit, as shown above.

As with the earlier case, the problem isn't simply cosmetic. Canon states that testing conducted by the third party which manufactures the rubber portion of the viewfinder eyecup has confirmed the white deposit to be made up of zinc bis (N,N’- dimethyldithiocarbamate), the same compound found on the T4i handgrip. The issue is that some individuals with sensitive skin may be allergic to this compound, and contact with it may cause a rash. Also, given that the affected part is used in close proximity with your eye, there's the potential for symptoms such as red eyes.

Canon is recommending customers who've experienced the issue to wash their hands and rinse their eyes, and to contact a physician if symptoms develop. The company is also promising to repair and inspect affected cameras free of charge in the US and Puerto Rico. Customers in other markets will want to speak to their local Canon agent.

More details can be found in the Canon SX50 product advisory.