Weightlifting Equipment Recalled After 27 Reports of Injuries
Cybex International Inc., of Owatonna, Minn., has recalled about 15,000 units of its Cybex Smith Press plate-loaded weightlifting equipment because the weight bar can fall, which poses serious hazards for the user.
Cybex International Inc., of Owatonna, Minn., has recalled about 15,000 units of its Cybex Smith Press plate-loaded weightlifting equipment because the weight bar can fall, which poses serious hazards for the user. The company has received 27 reports of injuries, including serious injuries of paralysis and spinal fracture, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Aug. 29 announcement of the recall.
Consumers can contact Cybex toll-free at 877-423-3253 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT weekdays or can visit www.cybexintl.com and click on "Support" for more information.
The recall involves the Cybex Smith Press model 5340, manufactured and distributed from 1989 through 1993, and model 5341, manufactured and distributed from 1993 through 2009. The models have a weight bar seated between two parallel vertical tracks on latch pins. The weight bar can be moved up and down to perform upper body and lower body exercises. The equipment is used primarily in fitness facilities. The weight bar was sold with the Smith Press, and the weights were sold separately. The model number is printed on the base of the frame of the equipment.
Consumers should immediately stop using the weight-lifting equipment and contact Cybex for instructions on how to receive a free repair for model 5341 or a credit or refund of the current value for model 5340. All known purchasers are being contacted by the company. The equipment was sold through Cybex direct sales representatives and fitness equipment dealers to fitness facilities and gymnasiums and online at www.cybexintl.com from 1989 through 2009 for between $1,000 and $3,400.