If you've stumbled across those terrifying videos of office chairs seemingly "exploding" on social media, you're probably wondering if your trusty desk chair is a ticking time bomb.
Let's cut through the clickbait and look at the facts.
Yes, a few rare cases have been reported where chairs failed suddenly—some even causing serious injuries. But these aren't random accidents. They're usually caused by cheap, poorly made components, often from unregulated manufacturers.
The good news? If you're using a decent-quality chair from a reputable brand, your risk is extremely low. The bad news? Many people buy chairs online without knowing what to look for—and that's where the danger can creep in.
What Does "Explosion" Really Mean?
The term "exploding chair" is misleading.
Nothing explodes in the traditional sense—there's no fire, no combustion.
What happens (in rare cases) is this:
The gas lift cylinder under your seat holds high-pressure gas (usually nitrogen). If it's poorly made—using weak metal or faulty seals—the cylinder can rupture. When it fails, that trapped pressure releases all at once, and parts of the chair can shoot upward.
It's not fire—it's force.
Think of it like a tyre blowout, not a bomb.
Why does it happen?
- Cheap or unregulated chairs
- Low-quality metal or welding
- Incorrect gas (like regular air instead of nitrogen)
- Overloading or misuse (jumping, excessive force)
Can it happen to you?
If your chair is well-made, certified, and used properly, the risk is near zero. These failures are sporadic—and avoidable with the right chair.
Next: how to tell if the chair you're using—or about to buy—is safe.
Is My Chair Safe? A Reality Check
In short?
If your chair is from a reputable brand, lists a proper weight rating, and meets a recognised safety standard like BIFMA or EN 1335—you're fine. The likelihood of a severe failure is minimal.
Worried signs?
- No visible certification or standards
- Very cheap price, especially from unbranded sellers online
- No listed weight limit
- Chair feels unstable or sinks without warning
Not sure? Flip the chair over. Look for a label with the model number, weight capacity, or safety standard. No label? That's already a red flag.
If you're still unsure, the safest move is to replace it with a certified gas lift chair from a known brand. It's not about overthinking—just avoiding unknown junk.
How to Identify a Safe Office Chair
- Check if the listing mentions BIFMA or EN 1335
- Make sure the weight limit is clearly stated (100kg minimum)
- Avoid unknown or unbranded products
- The base should be metal or reinforced plastic
- Look underneath for a label with model and date info
Daily Habits to Ensure Safety
Most people don't realise it, but how you use your chair every day matters. Even a well-made chair can wear out or fail early if it's misused or neglected.
Here's what to do—and what to avoid.
Don't slam into the seat. Dropping your weight into the chair or bouncing on it puts stress on the gas lift. That repeated impact can weaken internal seals over time.
Respect the weight limit. The rating isn't just a guideline—it's a safety threshold. Going over it, even occasionally, increases the risk of failure.
Please keep it away from heat. Avoid placing the chair next to radiators, heaters, or in direct sunlight for extended periods—high temperatures cause the gas inside to expand, which increases pressure inside the cylinder.
Please don't use it as a step stool. Standing on your chair is a fast way to damage the base or cause it to tip over.
Check it now and then. Every few months, flip the chair over and look at the gas lift. Rust, dents, or oil around the cylinder are early warning signs. If something looks off, replace the part or the whole chair.
These simple habits can extend the life of your chair—and more importantly, keep it safe.
Sinking Chairs vs. Dangerous Chairs
Not all chair problems are dangerous. One of the most common issues is a chair that slowly sinks over time. Annoying, yes—but not a safety risk in most cases.
Here's how to tell the difference.
A sinking chair typically indicates that the gas cylinder has lost pressure due to worn seals. It won't launch or explode—it just can't hold your weight like it used to. This is a sign of wear, not danger. Replace the cylinder if you want to restore the height function.
A dangerous chair shows different signs:
- Hissing or popping noises from the base
- Sudden drop instead of slow sinking
- Visible rust, cracks, or dents on the gas lift
- Chair feels loose, unstable or wobbly with no apparent cause
If you notice any of these, stop using the chair. It's not worth the risk. A faulty gas lift under pressure isn't something you can fix with duct tape or DIY tricks.
The rule is simple:
Sinking = replace the part
Unstable or damaged = replace the chair
What If Something Goes Wrong?
- Stop using the chair immediately if it drops suddenly, wobbles, or makes unusual sounds
- Contact the retailer (not the brand) with order number, product info, and clear photos
- Report safety issues to UK regulators at gov.uk/product-safety-advice-for-consumers
- Keep all parts, packaging, receipts, and damaged components as evidence
- Leave a review to warn others if the product was unsafe
Conclusion
Most ergonomic office chairs are safe when they're adequately made and used correctly.
The risk of a severe failure is extremely low, as long as you avoid unknown brands, check basic specifications, and replace worn parts when needed. Choosing a reliable brand like Sihoo adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
No need to panic. No need to overthink.
Just make wise choices, treat your chair with care, and pay attention when it starts telling you something's wrong.
Sit well. Sit safe.
