I'm sure many of you heard the original hooplah involving Canon's issues with the new Rebel T4i/650D, and if not, allow me to summarize: the grips were changing colors and allergic reactions were being reported related to some serial numbers. Well Canon Australia, which originally stated that its cameras were not affected by a fault - when they were - which could result in allergic reactions and red eyes when users come into contact with the camera, has expanded the number of serials affected.
From Canon Australia:
"Canon has identified an issue with the rubber grips on a number of EOS 650D cameras. This Service Notice replaces the Notice released on 6 July, which advised that there were no potentially affected units sold through Authorised Resellers into the Australian market.
Since the 6 July Service Notice, Canon has broadened the serial number range of potentially affected products as a precautionary measure and, as a result, we believe that a small number of cameras in the extended range have been sold in the Australian market.
The following information can be used by owners of EOS 650D cameras to identify whether their camera falls within the extended serial number range and the support available. Canon advises users of EOS 650D cameras who have checked their camera serial number prior to 3 August 2012 to please repeat the process.
Canon apologises for any inconvenience caused by this issue."
A little background information:
The front rubber grips of some EOS 650D units produced in certain lots between 31 May and 27 June 2012 may turn white after a short period of time. We have determined after inquiry with the rubber manufacturer and analysis that the substance zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate) is what causes the rubber surface to turn white.
Zinc bis is not used in the production of this product but is created as a result of this chemical reaction. 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 causing zinc bis deposits on the rubber surface. High temperature and high humidity may contribute to this condition.
The amount of zinc bis (N,N’-dimethyldithiocarbamate) detected during our testing was minimal. Depending on one’s health and physical condition, in rare cases when this substance comes into contact with skin, allergic skin reactions* may develop. In addition, if eyes are rubbed after contact with the substance, symptoms, such as red eyes, may develop.
As a precautionary measure, thoroughly wash your hands with water if they have come in contact with the rubber grips that have turned white. (If any medical symptoms develop, please consult your physician immediately.)
*Please note that the occurrence of allergic skin reactions depend on the target substance, length of contact with the target substance, one’s health and physical conditions, and sensitivity of one’s skin structure, and not everyone will be affected by allergic symptoms.
Is your camera affected?
Some units of the EOS 650D digital SLR camera produced between 31 May and 27 June are affected. Affected units can be identified by their serial number. If you want to make sure you're in the clear, Canon Australia has a simple process you can follow here.