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2026-05-21 – A consumer reported a fall hazard involving the Prime Fitness Shorty Adjustable Bench after the bench tipped over during decline use. The incident, filed with the CPSC SaferProducts database (Report ID 6034263), highlights conflicting safety information from the manufacturer regarding maximum safe decline angles, raising concerns about warning defects. Product DetailsBrand Name: Prime Fitness USA Incident OverviewApproximately one week before the report date of April 25, 2026, a consumer and a friend were using the Prime Fitness Shorty Adjustable Bench at a decline angle of about 45 degrees. During use, the bench flipped over, causing the users to fall. The incident occurred while the bench was configured with the decline/ankle pad attachment, and the users were potentially holding weights. The consumer noted that the product page on Prime Fitness USA's website advertises decline functionality and lists the back pad as adjustable up to 85 degrees, but fails to disclose a maximum safe decline angle. However, the physical warning decal on the bench—placed out of clear line of sight—states not to use the bench past 30 degrees of decline. In contrast, the online manual (provided by the manufacturer upon request) references a 45-degree decline limit. This discrepancy creates a risk that customers may rely on the website or manual and use the bench at an unsafe angle, leading to tip-over. As of the report date, the consumer observed no correction to the website, online manual, physical decal, or any notice to existing customers. Safety ConcernsImmediate Dangers: When the bench tips backward during decline use, the user can fall head-first or backward into the floor, nearby steel equipment, racks, walls, or other hard surfaces. The risk is heightened if the user is holding weights, as the added load can accelerate the fall and increase impact force. Who Might Be Affected: The primary users of the bench—individuals performing decline exercises—are at direct risk. Bystanders or spotters nearby may also be struck if the bench or user falls into them. Warning Signs: The conflicting safety information (30-degree decal vs. 45-degree manual vs. no limit on website) serves as a warning sign that the manufacturer has not provided consistent, clear guidance. Users may not realize the bench is unsafe at certain angles until a tip-over occurs. Environmental Triggers: The bench is commonly used near racks, trainers, dumbbells, and other gym equipment. The presence of these objects increases the likelihood of secondary impact injuries during a fall. Additionally, the decline angle itself—especially beyond 30 degrees—directly triggers instability due to the bench's design and warning discrepancies. What Our Clients SayWhat Consumers Should DoStop Using Immediately: Cease use of the Prime Fitness Shorty Adjustable Bench, especially in decline configuration, until consistent and clear safety information is provided by the manufacturer. Consumers who suffered injury or property damage from this hazard may wish to speak with a product liability attorney about their legal options. Manufacturer's ResponseThe manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.
Legal Help AvailableH Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing individuals injured by unsafe products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our attorneys offer free consultations to discuss your potential claim. If you or a loved one was injured by Prime Fitness USA or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation. |
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