Canon camera’s grip could cause allergic reactions

Been inexplicably sneezing or feeling itchy recently? It could be an allergic reaction to that shiny new Canon EOS Rebel T4i camera you just bought.

Canon just put out a notice telling owners of the recently released camera that some of the units have been having chemical reactions that result in the grip changing colors and which could possibly lead to allergic reactions.

The Japanese camera company says a number of units produced between late May and mid-June contained a slightly higher amount of rubber accelerator than normal.

That in turn is leading to a chemical reaction that creates the substance zinc bis, which turns the cameras’ grips white and which could potentially cause allergic reactions, Canon said.

“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,” Canon said in its note.

If you want to check your T4i and see if you’re among the affected, check your camera’s serial number. If the sixth digit is 2 or higher, you’re all clear. If it isn’t, enter your serial number on this page set up by Canon, and it’ll notify you whether your camera is among the affected.

Canon said it is making preparations to provide free services to replace the faulty rubber grips, but the services are not yet available. The company said the procedure should be set up by mid-July and that it will make an announcement at that time.

For now, the company advises users to wash their hands thoroughly if their grips turn white.

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