5 Office Chairs That Were Recalled for Dangerous Defects
Most people don’t think twice before plopping into their office chair, whether at home or at work. But what if that everyday seat harbored a hidden danger? Several popular chairs have been pulled from shelves due to defects that resulted in injuries, falls, or even fires. From collapsing bases to faulty welds, an office chair recall is more than a technicality—it’s a warning. Before you lean back again, check if any of these five dangerous chairs are in your space.
1. Staples Hyken Mesh Task Chair
The Staples Hyken Mesh Task Chair became popular for its sleek look and budget-friendly price. But in 2022, the company issued an office chair recall after reports that the back support welds could break during use. Users reported sudden backward falls that caused injuries, including bruises and concussions. Over 1.4 million units were sold before the recall, making it one of the most widespread safety alerts in recent years. Staples offered customers a repair kit or a refund, but many chairs are still in use today.
2. True Innovations Executive Chair (Sold at Costco)
Costco members might recognize this one—a plush executive-style chair sold under the True Innovations brand. In 2020, this model was recalled because the seat plate weld could fracture, leading to sudden collapse. Several users reported falling to the floor while seated, with some suffering back and tailbone injuries. The office chair recall covered more than 300,000 units, many of which were sold under slightly different product names. If you bought a Costco office chair between 2018 and 2020, it’s worth double-checking your model number.
3. Office Depot Gibson Leather Task Chair
Comfortable but dangerous—that’s how some consumers described the Gibson Leather Task Chair from Office Depot. The recall was issued after multiple reports of the base detaching from the seat while in use, causing instability. At least one person required medical attention due to a fall from the chair. Sold widely between 2016 and 2019, the chair was pulled after about 150,000 units had hit the market. Customers were offered store credit or a replacement, but the recall didn’t catch everyone who had purchased the model.
4. AmazonBasics Mid-Back Office Chair
Yes, even Amazon got caught in the recall spotlight. The AmazonBasics Mid-Back Office Chair was recalled in 2021 after concerns that the leg base could break without warning. The problem stemmed from weak plastic components that couldn’t handle the stress of repeated daily use. While no deaths were reported, several injuries and near-misses prompted the company to act quickly. Amazon reached out to affected customers directly, but given the online nature of sales, some buyers may have missed the memo.
5. Raynor Eurotech Swivel Chairs
The Raynor Eurotech swivel office chair was marketed as a high-end ergonomic option, often used in corporate settings. But in 2017, a recall was issued when it was discovered that the chair’s gas lift cylinder could separate from the base. This defect caused the chair to drop suddenly, resulting in dangerous falls. More than 120,000 units were involved, many purchased through office supply companies or business furniture contracts. Because these were often bought in bulk for businesses, many chairs may still be in circulation.
Don’t Sit on a Safety Hazard—Act Fast
An office chair recall may sound like a small inconvenience, but the risks can be very real. From head trauma to spinal injuries, a bad fall from a faulty chair can have lasting consequences. If your chair wobbles, creaks, or just doesn’t feel stable, it’s worth checking the manufacturer’s site or the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission database. Registering your products after purchase also ensures you’ll be notified in the event of a recall. When it comes to safety, even your chair deserves a second look.
Have you ever experienced a chair breaking unexpectedly or found out your office furniture was part of a recall? Share your story in the comments and let others know what to watch out for!
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