As previously reported in these pages, back in October 2009, for years people have been experiencing incidents where Pyrex, or other glass bakeware, has suddenly shattered or “exploded” under normal use, often resulting in an injury to the consumer. These can range from minor to serious lacerations, and even to tendon and/or nerve injury. These complaints have been documented over many years and it appears that there has been no abatement of the problem.
The CPSC database lists at least 24 new incidents in the 2010-2011 period. Moreover, Consumers Union has also reported 121 new incidents in response to its solicitation of reader reports.
It should be noted that the vast majority of the reported incidents involve glass bakeware produced by World Kitchen (Pyrex) or Anchor Hocking. This is not surprising, as they are the two leading manufacturers of such bakeware. Most of the incidents involved either pouring hot water into glass bowls or cups, or use of the bakeware in microwave ovens. In spite of assurances from the manufacturers that these products are safe for these types of uses, the incidents apparently continue to occur.
If you or anyone you know has been injured in any such incident, please call us to discuss your options.