Kirkland 1496038 – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-05-28 – A consumer in Mettawa, Illinois, reported sustaining repeated finger lacerations from the packaging of Kirkland 1496038 hearing aid batteries, according to a publicly filed incident report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's SaferProducts.gov database. The report, filed on May 7, 2026, describes a design defect in the product's packaging that caused cuts requiring non-professional first aid on every use.

Product Details

Brand Name: Kirkland
Manufacturer: Costco Wholesale
Model: 1496038
Retailer: Costco, Mettawa, Illinois
Incident Report Number: 6040050
Severity Type Name: First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 7

Incident Overview

On May 7, 2026, a consumer in Mettawa, Illinois, reported a hazardous incident involving Kirkland 1496038 hearing aid batteries purchased from Costco. According to the CPSC SaferProducts.gov report (Report ID 6040050), the consumer experienced finger lacerations every time they cut open the battery packaging. The injuries required first aid administered by a non-medical professional, and the consumer stated that the problem occurred from the very first use onward.

The consumer described the packaging as 'ill-designed,' noting that the button cell batteries for their hearing aids posed a recurring laceration hazard. The report indicates that the cuts resulted from the act of opening the packaging as intended, and the consumer expressed concern about the ongoing risk of injury. No other injuries or property damage were reported, and the consumer retained the packaging.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The sharp edges or cutting mechanism of the packaging can cause lacerations to fingers during routine opening. These cuts may vary in depth and length, potentially leading to bleeding and pain. In some cases, if the cut is deep, it could damage tendons or nerves, though the reported incidents required only basic first aid.

Long-Term Risks: Repeated lacerations to the same area can result in scarring, reduced sensation, or increased risk of infection. Consumers who frequently need to access the batteries may face cumulative injury over time.

Who Might Be Affected: The primary user of the hearing aid batteries—often older adults with reduced dexterity or vision—faces the highest risk. However, anyone handling the packaging, including caregivers or family members, could also be cut.

Warning Signs: The hazard is immediately apparent upon opening the packaging, as the consumer reported cuts occurring every time. There are no advance warnings; the risk is present from the first use.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using the Packaging: If you own Kirkland 1496038 hearing aid batteries, avoid cutting open the packaging with bare hands. Use scissors or other tools to open it carefully, or consider wearing protective gloves.

Preserve the Product: Keep the packaging and any remaining batteries in a safe place. This evidence may be important if you decide to report the incident or seek legal advice.

Document the Incident: Take clear photographs of the packaging, especially any sharp edges or design features that caused the cut. Also photograph any injuries sustained. Keep a written record of when and how the injury occurred.

Seek Medical Attention: Even if the cut seems minor, clean it thoroughly and apply a bandage. If signs of infection develop (redness, swelling, warmth, or pus), see a healthcare provider promptly.

Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov (https://www.saferproducts.gov) to help regulators track hazardous products. Include details about the packaging design and the recurring nature of the injury.

Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to see if Kirkland 1496038 or similar products have been recalled or are under investigation. No recall has been announced as of this writing.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage from this product may wish to speak with a product liability attorney to understand their legal options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California-based product liability law firm representing individuals injured by dangerous and defective products. The firm handles cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless a recovery is obtained. For a free, no-obligation consultation, call (888) 499-4948. If you or a loved one was injured by Kirkland 1496038 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.