Quality Chemical – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-03-17 – A consumer reported a chemical burn incident involving a 5-gallon container of commercial heavy-duty liquid alkaline dishwasher detergent manufactured by QUALITY CHEMICAL COMPANY. The incident, classified as a chemical burn hazard due to a warning defect, was filed on the CPSC SaferProducts.gov database, highlighting the risk of pressurized discharge from a sealed container during normal opening.

Product Details

Brand Name: Quality Chemical
Manufacturer: QUALITY CHEMICAL COMPANY
Retailer: Amazon.com
Incident Report Number: 5908312
Severity Type Name: First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 7

Incident Overview

On February 16, 2026, a consumer opened a newly delivered 5-gallon container of commercial heavy-duty liquid alkaline dishwasher detergent purchased through Amazon. Upon loosening the cap for the first time, the sealed container unexpectedly released pressurized contents, spraying the chemical directly onto the consumer's face and lip. The tamper seal appeared intact, and the container showed no visible swelling, leakage, or damage prior to opening. There was no warning that internal pressure had developed.

The exposure caused immediate burning pain consistent with a chemical burn. The consumer irrigated the affected skin with running water for approximately 15–20 minutes. No eye exposure occurred because the consumer was wearing glasses. The product is a strongly alkaline detergent with a pH of approximately 13.9, a caustic substance capable of causing serious chemical injury. The incident report notes that an unexpected discharge from a sealed container presents a significant risk of facial and eye injury during normal consumer handling. Photographs of the injuries, container, packaging, and order documentation were attached to the report (Report ID: 5908312, available at https://www.saferproducts.gov/PublicSearch/Detail?ReportId=5908312).

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The sudden release of pressurized alkaline detergent can cause immediate chemical burns to the skin and eyes. At pH 13.9, the substance is highly caustic and can damage tissue upon contact, leading to pain, redness, and blistering. Eye exposure could result in corneal damage or vision loss.

Long-Term Risks: Repeated or prolonged exposure to alkaline detergents may lead to chronic skin conditions such as contact dermatitis or sensitization. Scarring from chemical burns can cause permanent cosmetic or functional impairment, particularly on the face.

Who Might Be Affected: Consumers handling the product during normal use, including household members or commercial cleaning staff, are at risk. Bystanders nearby when the container is opened could also be exposed to the spray.

Warning Signs: Unlike some pressurized containers, this product showed no visible signs of internal pressure such as swelling, bulging, or leakage. The absence of warnings on the packaging about potential pressurization increases the risk of unexpected discharge.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: If you have a similar container of heavy-duty alkaline detergent, cease use until you can safely inspect and handle it. Do not open the container if you suspect any pressurization.

Seek Medical Attention: If skin or eye contact occurs, flush the affected area with water for at least 15–20 minutes and seek medical evaluation, especially if pain persists or burns are deep.

Preserve the Product: Keep the container, packaging, and any purchase records in a safe place. These items may be critical evidence if you choose to pursue a claim.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of the product, container, injuries, and any visible damage. Write down details of the incident, including date, time, and sequence of events.

Contact the Manufacturer: Report the incident to QUALITY CHEMICAL COMPANY directly. Provide them with the product details and incident information.

Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov to help alert other consumers and regulators about the hazard.

Consumers who suffered injury or property damage may wish 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-based product liability law firm dedicated to helping consumers injured by dangerous products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your situation and legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by Quality Chemical or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.