Office Chair Explosion Piercing
Accidents where office chairs explode and pierce the human body are often related to low-quality gas springs, and the risk can be reduced through proper selection and use.
The core cause of gas spring explosions is material and process defects. A proper gas spring is essentially a miniature high-pressure vessel filled with stable nitrogen gas. It can withstand a pressure of 2000 pounds, and its tube wall thickness meets national standards, enabling it to pass 120,000 lifting and lowering tests. However, unscrupulous manufacturers often use ordinary compressed air instead of nitrogen to cut costs, leading to oxidation and rusting of the metal inner wall. At the same time, if the tube wall is too thin or has scratches, deformations, or other defects, pressure accumulates continuously, eventually triggering an explosion. In addition, frequent lifting and lowering cause a sudden temperature rise, which may accelerate pressure changes inside the gas spring and increase the risk of explosion.
The hazards of low-quality gas springs are sudden and severe. Take the 2013 accident involving Ms. Liu as an example. After the gas spring of her online-purchased swivel chair exploded, a steel rod with a diameter of 3 centimeters pierced her lower body and entered her uterus, and more than ten metal fragments were cleaned out from her abdominal cavity. Similar accidents have occurred more than forty times in China, and all the victims used unbranded products or office chairs with low-quality gas springs. These products have not passed basic inspections and even lack clear labels and certifications, posing significant safety risks.
Preventive measures should be taken from two aspects: selection and use.
When selecting, prioritize products from reputable manufacturers. It is recommended to choose products priced above 200 yuan and check whether the gas spring has clear labels (such as the manufacturer and pressure rating) and inspection certifications (such as SGS and TUV certifications). Also, observe whether the surface of the gas spring has scratches, deformations, or rust. If the chair wobbles unsteadily, there may be structural defects, and it should be replaced promptly.
When using, sit down gently to avoid forcefully hitting the gas spring; reduce the frequency of height adjustments to prevent sudden temperature rises and pressure changes. If the gas spring leaks air, makes abnormal noises, or has uneven lifting and lowering, stop using it immediately and contact after-sales service.
By selecting properly and using scientifically, the risk of office chair gas spring explosions can be effectively reduced, ensuring personal safety.
