To Editor, Machine Design Magazine:
I've been reading your magazine now for a few years and enjoy both the technical articles and the editorials. However, this month's issue has me wielding the keyboard after reading yet another "From The Safety Files" article by contributing author and PE. Lanny Berke. This article, entitled 'Mower design flaws spark deadly fire' (with 'design flaws' in bold print) describes where a man died after being burned as a result of an accident with 30 year old lawn tractor. Certainly, I am empathetic toward the man's family and wish no one ever have to deal with that type of accident. However, I have no empathy for Berke. Here's a guy one step behind the ambulance chasing lawyers making his living at pointing out the faults and shortcomings of designers and manufacturers all day long. What I find peculiar with the story is that Mr. Berke is quick to find fault with the design of the mower, but does not offer any consideration to whether or not the mower was maintained properly or modified from its 'as delivered' condition after having been in service for THIRTY years! Mr. Berke cites that there were no warning labels or instructions about the dangers of spilled gasoline. Really? Do we need to remind Mr. Burke that his coffee is hot? Heaven forbid, there are no labels on my fountain drink cup warning me about the possible choking hazards from ice! Mr. Berke summarizes that the designers should have taken into account "reasonably foreseeable wear" and used "materials that should last a lifetime of the part". Exactly what is the expected lifetime of a lawn tractor Mr. Berke? Is 30 years beyond a reasonable life expectation for a part? Be careful Mr. Berke, your computer doesn’t have any labels on it warning you of the mail volume you’re likely to get from the angry mob of manufacturers and engineers who are fed up with a society that refuses to accept any responsibility for itself.
Steve Frank
Apex Designs
www.apexdesigns.net
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