About 15,000 units of Cybex Smith Press plate-loaded weight-lifting equipment are being recalled, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The release states the weight bar can fall, posing serious injury hazards to the user. Cybex has received 27 reports of injuries, including serious injuries of paralysis and spinal fracture. The items were sold through Cybex direct sales representatives and fitness equipment dealers to fitness facilities and gymnasiums and online at cybexintl.com from 1989 through 2009 for between $1,000 and $3,400.

Remedy: Repair, Refund

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 firm.

Description

This 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 Smith Press equipment.

Consumer Contact

Cybex toll-free at 877-423-3253 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at cybexintl.com and click on “Support” for more information.