Human Touch Recalls Reclining Chairs Due to Fall Hazard

What was recalled

In late November 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a significant safety recall involving luxury reclining chairs manufactured by Human Touch. This action was taken to address specific defects in their "Perfect Chair" line, a product designed to offer consumers a high-end relaxation experience with advanced mechanical features. The recall is not a blanket suspension of all Human Touch products; rather, it targets a very specific subset of inventory that was produced and sold during a narrow window of time. Understanding exactly which units are affected is the critical first step for any owner who wants to ensure their home environment remains safe.

The primary product at the center of this recall is the Human Touch Perfect Chair, specifically identified by model number PC-610. It is important to note that not every PC-610 chair is affected. The hazard is confined to units with serial numbers falling strictly between B613315034 and B614215154. If your chair’s serial number falls outside this range, it was manufactured at a different time with different components and is not part of this specific safety notice. The chairs in question were sold with several aesthetic variations to appeal to different home decor styles. Consumers could purchase these recliners with a base finished in walnut, dark walnut, or chestnut wood. Additionally, the leather pad set available for these models came in 33 distinct colors, meaning the visual appearance of a recalled chair can vary widely from one household to another.

To help you identify whether your furniture is part of this recall, it is helpful to know the physical dimensions and layout of the unit. These power reclining chairs measure approximately 43 inches in length, 31 inches in width, and 47 inches in height. The design features a head pillow at the top for comfort and a distinctive joystick controller located on the left armrest, which users operate to adjust the chair's position. For verification purposes, Human Touch placed identifying information directly on the hardware of the chair. You can find the words "Human Touch" and "Perfect Chair," along with the specific model and serial numbers, printed on the cross bar that connects the rear legs of the chair. This location is consistent across the affected units, making it a reliable place to check your documentation or the physical tag attached to the furniture.

The recall covers units that were sold through various retail channels, though the specific list of stores is not detailed in this summary beyond the general instruction to return them "to the store where purchased." The scope of the recall is defined by the serial number range rather than a total unit count in the provided facts. However, the specificity of the serial numbers indicates that only a portion of the total PC-610 production run was involved. If you own a Human Touch Perfect Chair PC-610, your immediate task is to locate that cross bar under the seat and verify your serial number against the range B613315034 through B614215154. This precise identification prevents unnecessary worry for owners of safe models while ensuring that those with potentially hazardous units take action.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a failure in the mechanical link between your body and the chair’s movement system. The Human Touch Perfect Chair relies on an electric motor to adjust its position, but the control you use to initiate that movement—a joystick located on the left armrest—is supposed to act as a precise switch. In normal operation, when you release the joystick, it snaps back to a neutral "off" position, cutting power to the motor and stopping the chair instantly. However, in the recalled units, the internal components of this joystick mechanism can malfunction in a dangerous way.

When this specific failure occurs, the joystick may stick or fail to return to its neutral state. This creates a condition known as "unintended activation." Even after you have let go of the controls, the chair continues to receive electrical signals to move. Because these reclining chairs are heavy and powerful, moving them unexpectedly can cause the entire unit to shift, rock, or fold in ways that are not predictable or controlled by the user. This is not a minor wobble; it is an uncontrolled mechanical action.

The primary danger here is the risk of falling. If you are sitting in the chair and it begins to move on its own, your center of gravity shifts abruptly. Your body may instinctively try to correct itself by grabbing the armrests or pushing back, but if the chair continues to recline or extend while you are trying to hold your position, you can lose your balance entirely. For many users, especially older adults or those with limited mobility, a sudden drop in seat height or an unexpected tilt can lead to being thrown from the chair. This can result in serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, or back strain as you try to catch yourself on the floor or nearby furniture.

It is important to understand that this hazard is not just about discomfort; it is about a complete loss of control over your physical environment. The recall stems from one confirmed report of this joystick mechanism malfunctioning. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm exists every time the chair is used. The unpredictability of the movement means you cannot rely on your muscles to react in time. If the chair starts to move while you are leaning forward to pick something up, or if it reclines too quickly while you are reading, the force of the movement can pull you off balance before you even realize what is happening. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has classified this as a significant fall hazard requiring immediate attention.

Additionally, the nature of power recliners means that a malfunctioning control can sometimes cause the chair to move in a way that traps limbs or creates pinching points between the moving parts. While the primary risk identified is falling due to uncontrolled motion, the secondary risk involves being caught in the machinery itself if the joints continue to close or open unexpectedly. The combination of heavy wood finishes and powerful motors makes these chairs substantial objects; when they move without command, they carry enough momentum to cause significant impact injuries.

• Unintended Motion: The chair moves even when you are not touching the controls.
• Loss of Balance: Sudden shifts in position can throw you off balance before you can react.
• Fall Risk: Falling from a height of nearly 18 inches (the seat height) to the floor is a serious injury risk.

Who is most at risk

The Human Touch Perfect Chair is designed as a premium piece of furniture for relaxation and comfort, primarily targeting adults who spend significant time sitting or reclining at home. While the product itself does not carry an age-based restriction in its manufacturing specifications, the nature of the defect creates a disproportionate risk for specific groups of users. The primary concern lies with anyone who relies on the chair’s automatic reclining function for mobility assistance or ease of movement. For many consumers, particularly those with limited physical strength or dexterity, this chair serves not just as a luxury item but as a functional tool that reduces the effort required to change positions. When the joystick mechanism malfunctions and allows the chair to continue moving unexpectedly, it removes the user’s ability to control their own posture, turning a moment of rest into a potential loss of balance.

Elderly individuals are perhaps the most vulnerable demographic in this scenario. As people age, natural changes in muscle mass, bone density, and reflex speed can make recovering from an unexpected shift in position much more difficult. If the chair reclines further than intended or shifts while the user is attempting to stand up, the sudden change in center of gravity can lead to a fall. For older adults, falls are not merely inconvenient; they are a leading cause of serious injury, including hip fractures and head trauma. The specific design of this chair, which includes a joystick controller on the left armrest, requires precise interaction. If the mechanism fails silently or continues its motion after the user has released the controls, an elderly user who is already relying on the chair for stability may find themselves unable to brace themselves in time.

Furthermore, caregivers and family members who assist others in using this chair are also at indirect risk. If a caregiver is helping someone stand up from the recliner while the mechanism is still active or drifting, they may lose their footing or be pulled off balance, leading to injury for both parties. Additionally, households with children present face a different set of risks. While the chair is marketed toward adults, children may climb on it or play near the controls. A malfunctioning chair that moves unexpectedly could trap limbs or cause a child to tumble from a height of nearly three feet, given the chair’s dimensions. The hazard is amplified by the fact that the defect involves an inability to stop motion, meaning that once the recline begins incorrectly, there is no secondary mechanical lock to hold the user in place. This lack of fail-safe control makes the risk immediate and physical, rather than just a matter of minor discomfort or inconvenience.

• Seniors with mobility issues: Those who depend on power recliners for safe standing may lose their balance if the chair moves unexpectedly.
• Individuals with weak grip or reaction times: Users who cannot quickly release or disengage from a joystick may be caught in the motion longer than intended.
• Caregivers assisting users: Those helping others stand may be pulled off balance if the chair shifts weight abruptly during the transfer.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a Human Touch Perfect Chair, it is important to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall before taking any action. The safest way to confirm is by checking the physical details of the chair against the information provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This recall specifically targets model PC-610 units. To be certain you have the correct product, you need to look for several distinct identifiers that are unique to this batch of recliners.

The most definitive way to identify the recalled chairs is by locating the serial number. You must check the cross bar that connects the rear legs of the chair. On this metal bar, you will find the words "Human Touch" and "Perfect Chair," along with the model number and the serial number. The recall applies only to units with serial numbers falling within a very specific range: between B613315034 and B614215154. If your serial number is outside this range, your chair is not part of this particular safety notice. This precision is crucial because Human Touch produces many different chairs, and the malfunctioning joystick mechanism described in this recall is isolated to these specific production dates.

In addition to the serial number, you can identify the recalled items by their physical appearance and finish. These power reclining chairs feature a base available in one of three wood finishes: walnut, dark walnut, or chestnut. The seating area is equipped with a leather pad set. While the base colors are limited, the leather upholstery was sold in 33 different colors, meaning color alone cannot confirm if your chair is recalled. However, the dimensions are consistent across all affected units. Each chair measures approximately 43 inches long, 31 inches wide, and 47 inches high. You should also look for a head pillow located at the top of the backrest and, most importantly, a joystick controller situated on the left armrest.

If you are unsure about your purchase history, note that these chairs were sold through various retail channels, so the point of sale does not rule out the recall. If your chair matches the model PC-610, has one of the specified wood bases, and carries a serial number within the recalled range, you should treat it as part of the recall immediately. Do not rely solely on memory or general descriptions; always verify the serial number on the rear leg crossbar to ensure your safety.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

Once you have confirmed that your Human Touch Perfect Chair is part of this recall, the good news is that the company has established a clear and accessible path to resolve the issue. You are not left to figure out the logistics on your own. The recall notice provides three distinct remedies designed to fit different circumstances: a full refund, a free repair kit, or an arranged free repair service. It is important to understand that you do not have to choose one option for the entire household if you have multiple chairs; you can select the remedy that best suits each specific situation, whether that means getting your money back or keeping the chair with a safety fix.

The first option available to you is a full refund. This is often the preferred choice for consumers who no longer wish to own the product or who want to upgrade to a different model entirely. To pursue this route, you must take the recalled chair directly to the store where you originally purchased it. The manufacturer has coordinated with retailers to handle these returns seamlessly. By returning the item in person, you ensure that the transaction is processed correctly and that you receive your complete payment back without having to wait for shipping or reimbursement checks. This step requires no prior contact with Human Touch, but it does require physical access to the original point of sale.

If you prefer to keep your chair, Human Touch offers two repair-based solutions at no cost to you. The first is a free repair kit that includes all necessary parts and shipping. This option is ideal if you are handy with basic tools and feel comfortable performing the installation yourself. The company covers the shipping costs, so there is no financial burden on you for receiving these components. Alternatively, if you do not wish to handle the installation or if you prefer professional assistance, you can contact Human Touch directly to arrange for a free repair service. In this scenario, a technician will be dispatched to fix the joystick reclining mechanism for you. This ensures that the safety hazard is addressed by experts, providing peace of mind that the repair meets their standards.

To initiate either the repair kit shipment or the service appointment, you must contact Human Touch directly. You can reach them by phone at 800-355-2762, which is staffed from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you may send an email to csadmin@humantouch.com. Additionally, detailed instructions and support resources are available online at www.humantouch.com. Simply navigate to the Support section and click on Recall for more information. These channels are dedicated to handling recall inquiries, so do not hesitate to use them to clarify any questions about your specific model or remedy choice.

• Refund: Return the chair to the original store of purchase.
• Repair Kit: Contact Human Touch to receive a free kit with shipping included.
• Service Repair: Contact Human Touch to schedule a free professional repair.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a piece of furniture that has become a central part of your daily relaxation routine. When a recliner feels comfortable and functions mostly correctly, the thought of hauling it back to a store or waiting for a repair kit can feel like an unnecessary inconvenience. However, ignoring this recall is not merely about missing out on a free fix; it is about accepting a known, active risk that does not disappear with time. The core issue here is mechanical failure in the joystick reclining mechanism. When you ignore the recall, you are essentially gambling with the integrity of that specific component, which has been identified as capable of malfunctioning in a way that causes the chair to continue moving unexpectedly.

The real-world consequence of this mechanical failure is a significant fall hazard. Imagine settling into your chair to read or watch television, only for the mechanism to slip or jam in a way that allows the chair to shift violently without your input. Because the chair is heavy and designed to hold substantial weight, an uncontrolled movement can easily throw off your balance. If you are elderly, have mobility issues, or are simply caught off guard by the sudden motion, you could fall out of the chair or onto the floor. This is not a hypothetical scenario; it is the specific danger that triggered the recall in the first place. While the company has only received one report of this malfunction so far, that single incident confirms that the failure mode is real and operational.

Furthermore, relying on luck is a dangerous strategy when safety is involved. The fact that no injuries have been reported yet is good news, but it does not guarantee your safety. Injuries from falls involving heavy furniture can range from minor bruises and sprains to serious fractures, head trauma, or back injuries, particularly for older adults whose bones may be more fragile. By continuing to use the recalled chair, you are exposing yourself and anyone else who sits in it to this preventable risk. The malfunction is a defect in the product's design or manufacturing, not something you caused, but the burden of dealing with the consequences falls on you if you do not act.

There is also the practical reality that mechanical defects often worsen over time. A joystick mechanism that occasionally sticks or moves too freely may eventually fail completely, potentially leaving you stuck in an awkward position or causing a more sudden, unpredictable movement later. Ignoring the recall delays the resolution and increases the window of time during which an accident could occur. The remedy provided—a full refund or a free repair kit with shipping—is designed to eliminate this risk entirely at no cost to you. Choosing not to take advantage of this offer means you are voluntarily maintaining a known hazard in your home, rather than removing it.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls are essential for addressing immediate risks, long-term home safety relies on building a proactive habit of vigilance and regular maintenance. Power reclining chairs, like the Human Touch models mentioned earlier, represent just one category of complex furniture that combines mechanical parts with heavy loads. The underlying principle here is simple: any device that moves under power requires regular inspection to ensure its safety systems are functioning as intended. Rather than waiting for a notification, consider making it a routine part of your household checkup to examine the moving mechanisms of your recliners every few months. Look for signs of wear on cables, unusual noises during operation, or any looseness in the joints. If a chair feels unstable or the motor struggles to move the frame, stop using it immediately and consult the manufacturer before attempting any DIY fixes that could void warranties or compromise structural integrity.

Beyond mechanical checks, environmental safety plays a crucial role in preventing injuries related to furniture falls. Many power recliners are heavy and can become top-heavy if occupied by a child or if placed near unstable surfaces. Always ensure your chair sits on a level floor; uneven carpeting or loose rugs can cause the base to shift unexpectedly during recline, increasing the risk of tipping. If you have young children in the home, it is wise to educate them that these chairs are for adults only and should never be used as play equipment. The weight distribution changes dramatically when a chair reclines, which can make it surprisingly difficult for a child to climb out quickly if something goes wrong.

Finally, stay informed about product safety without letting fear dictate your purchasing decisions. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other relevant regulatory bodies in your country. These agencies often release updates that provide valuable context on emerging hazards across various product categories, not just individual brands. Reading general safety guides on how to properly use and maintain power furniture can also empower you with the knowledge to spot potential issues early. By combining regular physical inspections of your home’s mechanical items with a habit of staying informed through official channels, you create a robust defense against accidents. This approach transforms passive consumption into active stewardship of your family’s well-being, ensuring that comfort does not come at the cost of safety.