Term: Product Recall Program

A product recall program defines the methods for removing or correcting products that violate laws, present a risk of injury or gross deception, or are otherwise defective. Recalls are voluntary but can be requested by regulatory agencies; mandated recalls are reserved for urgent situations or when a firm is not achieving recall responsibilities. Recalls require the prime manufacturer (may include wholesalers, suppliers, distributors, and retailers) to analyze the hazard, notify the supply chain and issue product return procedures. Recalls does not include market withdrawal or a stock recovery, which is accomplished through normal stock rotation practices, routine equipment adjustments, and repairs, etc. Almost all recalls are conducted on a voluntary basis by the manufacturer.