Thermador KBURT3651A02 – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-05-15 – A consumer in California suffered a laceration injury after contacting a sharp metal edge on a Thermador built-in refrigerator/freezer, according to a report filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) SaferProducts.gov database. The incident, involving model KBURT3651A02 manufactured by BSH Home Appliances Corporation, highlights potential design hazards in older appliances.

Product Details

Brand Name: Thermador
Manufacturer: BSH Home Appliances Corporation
Model: KBURT3651A02
Retailer: Pacific Sales Irvine CA
Incident Report Number: 6018477
Severity Type Name: Seen by Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 8

Incident Overview

On April 17, 2026, the consumer was retrieving an ice pack from the bottom freezer drawer of their Thermador refrigerator/freezer, which they had owned for 20 years. As they reached into the freezer, their little finger contacted the top edge of the stainless steel drawer, which had a sharp, sheared surface. The contact caused a piece of skin measuring approximately 0.5 by 1 inch to be removed. The consumer sought medical attention for the injury, which was categorized as requiring professional care.

According to the incident report, the gasket designed to protect users from the sharp edge failed to prevent the laceration. The consumer noted that the gasket had either never properly covered the edge or had deteriorated over time, exposing the burr-laden stainless steel. The reporter described this as a design defect that could be corrected by ensuring all steel edges are deburred and that the gasket fully covers the edges to prevent injury. The product was used as intended, and the incident occurred during normal operation.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: Contact with a sharp, sheared stainless steel edge can cause deep lacerations, severing skin, blood vessels, and nerves. In this case, a 0.5 x 1 inch piece of skin was removed, indicating the edge was capable of cutting through tissue with minimal force. Such injuries may require sutures, surgical debridement, or even reconstructive procedures.

Long-Term Risks: Even after healing, lacerations can lead to scarring, loss of sensation, or reduced mobility in the affected finger. If the wound becomes infected, complications such as cellulitis or osteomyelitis may arise, especially if the metal edge introduced bacteria into the tissue.

Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using the freezer drawer is at risk, particularly when reaching in without direct visual guidance. Children or elderly individuals with thinner skin or slower reflexes may be more susceptible to severe injuries from the same hazard.

Warning Signs: The primary warning sign is a visible gap or displacement of the gasket along the drawer's top edge. If the gasket is loose, cracked, or missing, the underlying metal edge may be exposed. Consumers may also notice burrs or rough spots on the stainless steel if they run a cloth along the edge.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: Cease using the freezer drawer until the sharp edge can be inspected and repaired. Continued use poses a risk of further injury.

Preserve the Product: Keep the refrigerator/freezer in its current condition. Do not attempt to file down the edge or adjust the gasket, as this could alter evidence needed for a potential investigation.

Document the Incident: Take clear photographs of the sharp edge, the gasket position, and any injuries. Save medical records and receipts for treatment. Note the date, time, and circumstances of the incident.

Seek Medical Attention: If you have sustained a laceration, see a healthcare provider promptly. Even small cuts can become infected or require professional cleaning.

Contact the Manufacturer: Reach out to BSH Home Appliances Corporation to report the hazard and inquire about possible repairs or replacement parts.

Report to the CPSC: File a report at SaferProducts.gov if you experience a similar issue, to help regulators track potential defects.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage due to this product may want to speak with a product liability attorney about their 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 product liability law firm representing clients injured by defective appliances. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free consultations to discuss your case and legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by Thermador KBURT3651A02 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.