Rigid R4021 – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-05-04 – A consumer reported a fire and burn hazard involving a Rigid R4021 wet tile saw manufactured by One World Technologies, Inc. The incident, filed on the CPSC's SaferProducts.gov database, occurred when the saw's electrical switch area ignited and sparked during normal use, causing a small fire. The user received first aid from a non-medical professional.

Product Details

Brand Name: Rigid
Manufacturer: One World Technologies, Inc.
Model: R4021
Incident Report Number: 5997779
Severity Type Name: First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 7

Incident Overview

On April 10, 2026, a consumer was using a Rigid R4021 wet tile saw to cut a small piece of tile. According to the incident report filed with the CPSC, the user had only made three cuts when the bottom of the saw, near the electric switch, suddenly caught fire and began sparking. The fire was contained to the switch area, but the consumer sustained a minor injury requiring first aid administered by a non-medical professional.

The report indicates the saw was being used as intended for tile cutting. No prior issues with the product were mentioned by the reporter. The incident highlights a potential manufacturing defect that could cause the electrical components to overheat and ignite during normal operation.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: An electrical fire near the switch can rapidly spread to nearby materials, including tile adhesive, wood, or the operator's clothing. Sparks may also cause burns or ignite flammable dust in the workspace.

Long-Term Risks: Even if the fire is extinguished quickly, repeated electrical arcing can damage internal wiring, increasing the risk of future fires or electric shock. The saw may become unsafe for any further use.

Who Might Be Affected: The primary user is at greatest risk of burns or shock. Bystanders nearby, especially in confined spaces, could also be exposed to smoke, flames, or flying debris from the sparking.

Warning Signs: The sudden onset of fire without prior symptoms makes this hazard particularly dangerous. However, any unusual smells, smoke, or intermittent power loss from the switch area should be treated as an urgent warning.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: Discontinue use of the Rigid R4021 wet tile saw until the cause of the fire is investigated. Do not attempt to operate the saw again.

Unplug the Saw: If safe to do so, disconnect the saw from the power source to eliminate the risk of electrical shock or further fire.

Preserve the Product: Keep the saw in its current condition. Do not attempt repairs or modifications, as the product may serve as evidence for a potential defect claim.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of the damaged area, the saw, and the surrounding workspace. Write down the date, time, and details of what occurred while the memory is fresh.

Seek Medical Attention: Even for minor burns, have a healthcare professional evaluate the injury to prevent infection and document it for any future claim.

Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov if you experience a similar issue. Include details about the saw's model and the nature of the hazard.

Check for Recalls: Monitor the CPSC recall list at cpsc.gov for any future actions regarding the Rigid R4021.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage as a result of this product may wish to consult a product liability attorney to discuss 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 product liability law firm dedicated to helping consumers injured by defective products. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. Our team offers a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and potential compensation. If you or a loved one was injured by Rigid R4021 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.