Recalls and issues with cameras are nothing new, and when you're producing hundreds of thousands of an item, there is a good chance there will be a problem somewhere down the line. The issue this time is a problem with the Canon T4i and a chemical on the rubber of the hand grips that could turn white over time and also possibly cause skin irritation (though only one case of skin irritation has been reported so far). Canon initially announced the recall for cameras manufactured between May 31st and June 15th, but they have now extended the date to June 27th. The total number of affected cameras is over 68,000 now -- which is quite a few more than were initially part of the recall.
Here is a bit from the press release (thanks to Canon Rumors):
The front rubber grips of some EOS REBEL T4i units produced in certain lots between May 31st through June 27th, 2012 may turn white after a short period of time. We have determined after inquiry with the rubber manufacturer and analysis, that the white substance is zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate). Zinc bis is not used in the production of this product. However, the quantity of rubber accelerator used in the affected production lots was slightly higher than usual. As a result the rubber grips may turn white due to a chemical reaction with the rubber accelerator and other substances. High temperature and high humidity may contribute to this condition. Zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate), which becomes deposited on the rubber surface, is created as a result of this chemical reaction.
While it's not immediately obvious when your camera was manufactured, if you look at the sixth digit of the serial number and it reads 1, your camera is part of the recall. If it's 2 or higher, your camera is not part of the recall and should be fine. Canon and Nikon both have plenty of these small issues, and usually they take care of them in a timely manner. While the risk of injury is low (since only one person has been affected so far), it's important to take care of this right away if your camera might be part of the recall. It's usually better to deal with these issues as soon as possible even if the chances of your camera actually having a problem are low.
Canon's previous major recall was related to a light leak issue in the Mark III that wasn't ever really a huge issue (and never affected video shooters). Even if Canon isn't your favorite company in the world, they are usually very good about dealing with these issues. The last thing you need on set is for your DP to get skin irritation, so if you've got an issue, you can see if your camera is affected from the link below.
Link: Canon T4i Recall
[via Canon Rumors and The Verge]
