Gleason Recalls Hand Trucks Due to Laceration and Injury Hazards

What was recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall notice concerning specific hand trucks distributed under the Gleason brand, though these units are also identified by the Milwaukee brand name. This action, announced on October 6, 2016, targets a particular subset of moving equipment that may appear sturdy and reliable but contains a critical manufacturing flaw in its wheel assembly. The recall focuses exclusively on nylon hand trucks that feature a one-piece, nylon-molded frame. These units stand 50 inches tall and measure 21 inches wide, providing a substantial profile for moving heavy loads. However, the specific models affected are clearly defined by their identification numbers: Model 40615 and Model 60610.

To help you identify whether your unit is part of this recall, it is essential to look closely at the physical design and color coding of the two affected models. The Milwaukee-branded hand truck with model number 40615 features a black nylon body paired with a black foot rest and distinctive yellow handles. In contrast, the Model 60610 shares the same black nylon body construction but is distinguished by its red foot rest and matching red handles. Regardless of the color scheme, the definitive way to confirm if you possess a recalled item is to locate the model number, which is stamped on the crossbar situated between the handles of the hand truck.

The scope of this recall involves a significant volume of products that were widely available to consumers and businesses alike. While the provided records do not specify the exact number of units sold or the specific retail locations beyond general distribution channels, it is important to note that these items were marketed as durable moving aids. The distinction between the Gleason brand and the Milwaukee branding can sometimes cause confusion, so checking both labels and, more importantly, the model number on the crossbar is crucial for accurate identification.

If you have a hand truck that matches these physical descriptions—specifically the 50-inch height, 21-inch width, one-piece nylon frame, and either of the two specified model numbers with their corresponding color configurations—you should treat it as potentially hazardous. The recall was initiated due to reports of injuries, underscoring the importance of verifying your equipment against these precise specifications rather than relying solely on brand names or general appearance.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at the mechanics of how these hand trucks are built and used. The recalled Gleason (Milwaukee-branded) hand trucks feature wheels with plastic rims. These rims are designed to support significant weight and absorb shocks as you navigate uneven surfaces like carpets, gravel, or concrete. However, the structural integrity of these specific plastic components is dependent on maintaining correct air pressure. When a user overinflates the tires, the internal pressure exceeds the design limits of the nylon-molded material. This excessive force creates immense stress on the wheel’s rim, causing the plastic to become brittle and prone to sudden failure.

The physical mechanism of injury is both direct and indirect. First, when an overinflated rim breaks, it often does so with explosive force. The plastic can shatter into sharp, jagged fragments that fly outward at high speed. Because hand trucks are typically maneuvered by gripping handles near the top while standing behind or beside the load, your hands, wrists, and face are in the immediate blast zone. The recalled items have already been linked to five reported injuries, specifically lacerations to the face, hands, and wrists. These are not minor scrapes; they are cuts that require medical attention due to the sharpness of the broken plastic and the proximity to sensitive areas.

Secondly, there is a secondary hazard related to control. The hand truck’s frame is made of one-piece nylon molding, which provides stability under normal conditions. But when a wheel fails catastrophically while you are transporting a load, the balance of the truck shifts instantly. This can cause the heavy item on the dolly to tip or slide unpredictably. If you are holding the handles, your body may be jerked forward or twisted as the truck collapses or veers off course, potentially leading to falls or impact injuries from the load itself. The combination of flying plastic shards and loss of control creates a dual threat: direct cuts from the material and blunt force trauma from the uncontrolled movement of the equipment.

This type of hazard is particularly dangerous because it can happen without warning during routine use. Overinflation often occurs when users try to make the wheels harder for easier rolling, not realizing that exceeding the recommended psi compromises the structural safety of the plastic. Unlike metal wheels that might bend or dent under pressure, these nylon-molded rims can fail completely and silently until the moment they break. The result is a sudden, unpredictable release of energy in an environment where you are already managing heavy objects and navigating potentially crowded spaces.

Who is most at risk

When we discuss who is most vulnerable to the hazards associated with this recall, it is helpful to look at both the mechanics of the failure and the physical demands placed on the user. The Gleason hand trucks in question—specifically the models 40615 and 60610—are designed for moving heavy loads. This means they are typically used by individuals engaged in significant physical labor, whether that be a homeowner tackling a major renovation, a small business owner managing inventory, or a logistics worker. The primary risk factor here is not just the weight of the object being moved, but the pressure applied to the hand truck’s wheels during operation. Because the hazard stems from overinflation leading to broken plastic rims, anyone who frequently inflates these tires, perhaps to ensure smooth rolling on uneven surfaces, is inherently placing themselves in a potential danger zone.

The nature of the injury—lacerations to the face, hand, and wrist—suggests that the most at-risk individuals are those whose bodies are positioned close to the point of failure. When a wheel rim shatters under pressure, it does not simply deflate; it can fragment with enough force to become projectiles or sharp edges that strike the operator. For an adult user, the risk is acute physical trauma. A laceration to the hand or wrist while gripping the handles could lead to significant bleeding, potential nerve damage, or the inability to use that hand for subsequent tasks. Furthermore, if the wheel fails suddenly while the truck is in motion, the user may lose control of a heavy load, leading to secondary injuries such as falls, crush injuries from falling objects, or impact with nearby structures.

While the recall notice cites five reported injuries among adults, we must also consider the broader context of household safety. Although these specific hand trucks are large, industrial-style carts measuring 50 inches tall, they are often stored in garages, basements, or workshops where children may play. A child who climbs into the footrest area or attempts to pull the handles might inadvertently trigger a mechanism or place stress on the frame. If a wheel were to fail while a child is near or under the load, the consequences could be far more severe due to their smaller size and developing bones. Additionally, elderly individuals who may have reduced grip strength or balance issues are at higher risk of secondary injury if the hand truck fails unexpectedly, as they may not be able to brace themselves against a sudden jolt or shift in weight.

Ultimately, the risk is highest for anyone who uses these Milwaukee-branded models 40615 and 60610 regularly, particularly those who inflate the tires beyond recommended limits. The black nylon body with yellow handles (model 40615) or red handles (model 60610) may look sturdy, but the internal plastic rims are failing points that can endanger anyone in close proximity during use. If you fall into any of these categories—frequent heavy users, those who maintain their own equipment, or individuals storing this item in areas accessible to vulnerable family members—you should treat this recall with immediate seriousness.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Determining whether your hand truck is part of this specific recall requires a careful visual inspection and a close look at the manufacturing details. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that while the brand name on the product may be "Milwaukee," the entity responsible for this recall is Gleason. This can sometimes cause confusion, so it is important to look past the visible branding and focus on the physical construction and specific model numbers to confirm if your unit is affected.

The first step in identification is to locate the model number. According to the recall facts, you will find this number stamped or printed on the crossbar situated between the two handles of the hand truck. This is the most definitive way to verify if your item is included in the safety notice. You are specifically looking for one of two model numbers: 40615 or 60610. If your unit has a different model number, it is not part of this specific recall. However, if you see either of these numbers, you should proceed to the next steps of verification.

Once you have confirmed the model number, examine the physical appearance of the hand truck to ensure it matches the description of the recalled nylon-molded units. Both recalled models share a one-piece, nylon-molded frame and measure approximately 50 inches in height and 21 inches in width. While the overall size and material are consistent, the color schemes differ between the two models. If you have model 40615, it will feature a black nylon body, a black foot rest, and distinctive yellow handles. In contrast, if you have model 60610, it will also have a black nylon body but will be distinguished by a red foot rest and red handles.

It is crucial to inspect the wheels as well, as the hazard stems from the plastic rims on these specific units. While the recall description focuses heavily on the frame colors and model numbers for identification, the underlying issue involves the wheel's construction. If your hand truck matches the model numbers and physical descriptions above—specifically the black nylon body with either yellow or red accents depending on the model—you should treat it as part of the recall immediately. Do not rely solely on the "Milwaukee" brand name, as this recall is managed by Gleason Consumer Products Company. If you are uncertain about any detail, take clear photographs of the model number on the crossbar and the overall product to compare against these specifications or to share when contacting the company.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that your hand truck is among the affected units, the good news is that the manufacturer has established a clear and accessible path to resolve the issue without costing you anything out of pocket. The remedy specified in this recall is not a partial credit or a store gift card; it is a full repair service where Gleason Consumer Products Company will provide you with replacement wheels entirely free of charge. This approach makes sense given the nature of the defect, which centers specifically on the plastic rims of the wheels rather than the structural integrity of the entire frame. By sending you new wheels, they are directly addressing the component that can break and cause injury, allowing you to continue using a sturdy, high-quality tool that otherwise functions perfectly well.

To initiate this process, you will need to reach out to Gleason Consumer Products Company directly. You have three convenient options for making contact, depending on your preference for communication style. If you prefer speaking with a representative to get immediate answers to specific questions about shipping or compatibility, you can call their dedicated recall hotline at 800-520-6335. It is important to note that this line operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday, so keeping those hours in mind will help ensure you reach someone who can assist you right away.

For those who prefer written communication or need to send documentation, email is a viable option. You can direct your inquiry to nruhrer@gleasonmillw.com. When emailing, it is helpful to have your model number ready (either 40615 or 60610) and to describe the condition of your current wheels clearly. If you are more comfortable navigating a website for self-service support, Gleason has hosted a dedicated Safety Notice on their official site at www.milwaukeehandtrucks.com. Simply visit the URL and click on the "Safety Notice" link to find detailed instructions on how to request your replacement parts.

Why is the remedy focused on wheels rather than a full refund? In many product recalls, especially for durable goods like hand trucks, replacing the defective component is the most environmentally responsible and economically sensible solution. The recall notes that five injuries have occurred due to lacerations from broken plastic rims, but it does not suggest that the nylon frames or handles are compromised. Therefore, providing replacement wheels restores the safety of the item while saving you the hassle and expense of purchasing a brand-new hand truck. Take your time to follow these steps carefully, as this is the official channel for receiving your safe, compliant equipment.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a piece of equipment that has served you well for years or simply because taking the time to contact customer service feels like an inconvenient hurdle in your busy schedule. You may look at the hand truck, see no obvious cracks, and think it is safe to continue moving boxes, furniture, or heavy loads as usual. However, ignoring a recall notice for this specific Gleason (Milwaukee-branded) model carries risks that go far beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue lies in the structural integrity of the wheels, which are designed with plastic rims that have a critical vulnerability: they can shatter if overinflated. This is not a minor defect; it is a sudden and violent failure mode that transforms a helpful tool into a potential weapon.

The primary danger here is laceration. When the plastic rim breaks under pressure, it does not just crack; it typically fragments into sharp, jagged shards. Because these hand trucks are used to transport heavy items, they are often pushed or pulled with significant force and speed. If a wheel disintegrates while you are maneuvering a load, those sharp plastic pieces can fly outward at high velocity. More immediately, as the wheel collapses, your hands, wrists, or face—which are positioned directly over or near the wheel assembly during operation—are exposed to these fragments. The CPSC reports that this has already resulted in five documented injuries, including cuts to the face, hand, and wrist. While five incidents may sound like a small number, it is significant evidence that the hazard is real and actionable, not just theoretical.

Beyond the immediate risk of cuts, continuing to use a compromised wheel creates a secondary instability hazard. A broken wheel means you lose control of the load. If you are moving heavy furniture or fragile items, the sudden drop in height caused by a collapsed wheel can cause the entire load to shift, tip, or fall on your feet or legs. This can lead to bruising, fractures, or more serious crush injuries. Furthermore, if you are navigating stairs or uneven terrain, the instability can cause you to lose your balance entirely, leading to falls that compound the initial injury. The recall is not about punishing you for overinflation; it is about acknowledging that the current design cannot safely contain the pressure required for reliable operation.

Choosing to ignore this notice also means you are relying on luck rather than safety. You might get lucky today, but plastic fatigue and stress fractures can develop silently. The next time you inflate the tire or push a heavy load, the rim could fail without warning. By waiting, you are gambling with your physical safety for the sake of avoiding a phone call. The remedy—receiving replacement wheels—is straightforward and free, but it requires you to act now rather than hoping the problem will resolve itself. It won’t. The only way to ensure that your moving days remain safe and injury-free is to remove the hazard from your garage or storage area immediately.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in the wheel rims of certain hand trucks, the underlying principle applies to all wheeled utility equipment: regular maintenance is your first line of defense against injury. Hand trucks are designed to bear significant weight and withstand dynamic forces, but their components can wear out over time or fail due to environmental factors. To ensure your own safety and the safety of others around you, it is crucial to treat your hand truck as a piece of equipment that requires periodic inspection rather than a disposable tool.

One of the most common causes of wheel failure, particularly on plastic or nylon rims, is improper inflation. Many users assume that "more pressure means better performance," but overinflation creates excessive tension on the material structure. When the internal pressure exceeds the design limits of the plastic rim, it can become brittle and prone to shattering under load, just as described in this hazard. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for your specific model. If that information is unavailable, err on the side of caution and inflate only until the wheel feels firm but still has a slight give when pressed with your thumb. Avoid using high-pressure air compressors directly on small utility wheels; instead, use a standard bicycle pump with a pressure gauge to maintain control.

Regular visual inspections can catch problems before they become emergencies. Look for cracks, discoloration, or warping in the wheel rims and the frame joints. Pay close attention to the axles and bolts that secure the wheels; loose hardware can cause wobbling, which puts uneven stress on the plastic components and accelerates fatigue. If you notice any unusual noises, such as grinding or clicking, when moving the truck, stop using it immediately and investigate the source. Tightening loose screws or replacing worn bushings is often a simple fix that extends the life of your equipment significantly.

Beyond mechanical maintenance, always be mindful of how you use the hand truck. Never exceed the rated weight capacity, as this can stress the frame and wheels beyond their structural limits. When moving heavy loads, push rather than pull whenever possible to maintain better control and reduce strain on your back and arms. Additionally, keep your work area clear of obstacles that could cause the truck to tip or jerk suddenly, which is often when injuries occur.

Finally, stay informed about product safety by periodically checking official recall databases like those maintained by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Subscribing to email alerts from these agencies ensures you are notified immediately if a product you own is found to be unsafe. Being proactive about safety not only protects your household but also contributes to a culture of responsibility that helps keep communities safer overall.